It’s the most wonderful time of the year….no, not Christmas, AP  tests!

This month 392 PR students will be taking 822 AP tests in hopes of receiving college credit. While the idea of receiving the credit sounds exciting, the preparation for the tests in probably the most stressful experience some students will endure.

Here are some ways Prairie Ridge students are preparing:

“Flash cards and AP exam prep  books are really helping me out!” –Halle Baldwin (sophomore)

“AP Exams. Ahhh I cringe just thinking about them. But once they’re over, it’s the most rewarding feeling ever, whether you did well or not. So just remember when preparing/taking them: this one test will not define you, so do the best you can and enjoy a well deserved ice cream afterwards!” –Sonia Patel (senior)

“Studying, haha, but I’m also taking the practice tests that my teachers offer.” –Patrick Nasta (sophomore)

“How to prepare for AP Tests 101: make yourself a cheat sheet for each subject (like you would have in, for example, Bio), watch a bunch of review YouTube videos, and get together with friends to study (you may or may not actually study either way it’s nice to get together and share the pain) P.S. Eat all of the ice cream that you possibly can and then eat more” –Tori Colhurst (senior)

“Flashcards and practice tests all the way!”  –Julia Conti (sophomore)

“I’m trying to get some sleep but also trying to equally spend my time working.” –Julia Alvey (sophomore)

Here are some basic knowledge of testing at Prairie Ridge:

• The testing starts today, May 2, and continues on until May 13. The exact schedules can be found on here!
• Timings for each test varies. Some tests are 2 hours or 3 hours depending on the subject.
• Scoring for the exams are 1, 2 , 3 , 4, 5 — 5 is the highest and most difficult score to attain. A score of 3-5 means the student is qualified or extremely qualified in the subject.

So how do you do well on an AP test?

• Learn about the format of the test. Each tests has a different format and it is important to know what to expect so you do not waste time being surprised!
• Take many practice tests before the actual exam. At this point of the year, teachers have covered most of the material, so it is time to start brushing off those test skills.
• Many students have trouble finding practice material. The good news is finding practice tests to help prepare you is really easy!
• Practice tests are available online and there are resources in our library as well!
• Develop a strategy for the test. This tip depends on the test and personal strengths. For example, for the AP English exams it might help to create a short outline to help organize your thinking. Strategies can be developed through lots of practice.
• The night before get a good amount of sleep and a healthy breakfast before the test. It’s old advice, but it’s good advice. You want to do everything in your power to make sure the test goes as smoothly as possible.