Many students are currently taking a variety of AP classes. Although some have stated that they are “worried,” many have also expressed confidence about their exam scores PHOTO CREDIT: My Norse Code

    It’s that time of year again: The preparations for the 2024 AP exams has begun.  Many students have differing feelings about the weeks leading up to the test, but one thing is for certain – Hawks are scrambling to start studying before the big test.

     The first tests of the season start on May 6, according to CollegeBoard, with U.S. government and politics, art history, and chemistry being first. The last official day for testing – not including make-up tests – is on May 17. This leaves a little under a month of time, as of April 12, to start preparing for the test.

     Some students have already begun studying. Junior Reagan Gorschboth, who takes AP U.S. History, AP Language and Composition, and AP Physics 1, states that she is “going to study sessions,” while fellow junior Kylee Neiderberger, who takes AP Calculus AB and AP Physics I, adds she is “using Khan Academy and doing practice tests.” Other good tips for studying include studying older materials – The Princeton Review states that “Refreshing your memory on a regular basis is the best strategy for effective learning.” – as well as investing in an AP prep book, which can “help you review essential content, introduce you to test format and question types, and help you practice for the big day.”

     There are mixed feelings overall regarding the tests. Junior Jamie Ruiz Berigtold, who is taking AP English Language, AP Environmental Science, and AP U.S. History, says she is “nervous, but I think I’ll get at least a three  on all of the tests because I know the material well.” Sophomore Autumn Ferguson, who takes AP World History and AP Government, says she feels, “pretty good, since the tests are supposed to be easy.”

     Others are not as confident. Junior Grace Cassidy, who is taking AP Language and Composition, says she is “Nervous. I’ve never been a very good test taker; in class I do well, and on tests I tend to suffer some.” Sophomore Ryleigh Zimmerman, who currently takes AP World History, states that she is, “Nervous. I’m not a good test taker, and even though I normally do good in history, I’ve been having a bit of a hard time.” She adds, “But…I’ll feel good if I study more.”

     Teachers have their own advice for students who may be nervous to take the AP tests. History teacher Mr. Benjamin Scarborough says, “In order to be successful and avoid a stressful situation, students should start preparing several weeks before the AP exam. In their free time, they should study their notes, make use of online resources provided by teachers or the College Board, and work through a preparatory book if possible.”