The Advanced Placement (AP) exams can seem daunting to students, but with effective preparation and practice, it’s possible to earn high scores on the essays. The AP exams assess students’ mastery of college-level material and can potentially earn them college credit, so it’s important to put in the work needed to do well. Here are some top AP essay writing tips to keep in mind:
Plan Your Essay Before Writing
Instead of diving right into writing, take 10-15 minutes before the timed section begins to plan out your essay. Read the prompt carefully and identify the key terms and requirements. Make sure to address all aspects of what the question is asking. Outline the main points you want to make in 2-3 paragraphs in response. Having a plan helps ensure you stay on topic and address all parts of the prompt. It’s easy to ramble without a clear plan.
Organize Logically by Paragraph
Use the basic five paragraph structure of an introductory paragraph, three body paragraphs each addressing a different aspect of the prompt, and a conclusion paragraph. Within each body paragraph, present one main idea or piece of evidence, then analyze and explain how it relates to the central argument. Transition clearly between paragraphs so the ideas flow logically. Check that each paragraph and sentence is connecting back to the central thesis established in the intro.
Incorporate Relevant Evidence and Examples
AP essay prompts will often provide historical context, data or works of literature/art. Look for ways to directly cite, summarize or analyze the given materials to substantiate your points. You can also bring in your own outside contextual knowledge if it is still relevant to the specific terms of the prompt. Examples and details are what distinguish a good essay from a great one. Make sure any evidence is thoroughly explained and analyzed rather than just mentioned or described.
Use Proper Writing Mechanics
While the readers will focus more on content than mechanics, using proper spelling, grammar, vocabulary and citation format (if relevant sources are used) creates a polished final product. Check over your work for typos or grammatical errors. Use complex sentence structures and a varied, advanced vocabulary befitting a college-level response. Stick to accepted formatting like 12-point font and standard margins. Neat appearance creates a good first impression.
Craft a Strong Introduction
Grab the reader’s attention in the opening sentences, then clearly state the focus or “case” you will be making in response to the prompt. Preview the points or examples that will be discussed in the body paragraphs. Creating an intriguing introduction sets up high expectations the rest of the essay needs to fulfill. End by restating the central argument in your own words.
Develop a Cohesive Conclusion
Restate the most important examples or pieces of evidence and explain how they substantiate your thesis. Avoid just repeating the introduction. Draw conclusions about how your argument addresses the terms of the original prompt. Consider possible implications or extensions of your thesis. Leave the reader with a solid sense of resolution rather than an abrupt ending. Use transition words to connect back seamlessly to the prior body paragraph.
Allow Time for Revision and Editing
With the strict time constraints, it may be tempting to rush through and submit the essay immediately after writing the conclusion. Instead, take 5-10 minutes to reread critically and identify areas needing improvement. Ask yourself if any aspects of the prompt were overlooked or underdeveloped. Look for ways to strengthen word choice, vary sentence structure or add more analysis. Editing makes a big difference in developing a high-scoring response.
Use Appropriate Idioms and Style
AP essays should demonstrate a formal, academic writing style befitting a college application. Avoid slang, contractions or overly casual language. Instead, use precise, advanced vocabulary paired with complex sentence structures. Express ideas concisely without unnecessary filler words. Write in an assertive tone to convey your knowledge and authority on the topic rather than using hedging language like “I think” or “maybe.”
Practice Strategies Under Time Pressure
Nothing prepares you quite like replicating the actual testing experience. Set aside blocks of timed practice where you read essays and write responses within the strict time limit per prompt. Identify areas where you rushed or felt panicked. Learn to budget your time so every paragraph and sentence receives attention while still finishing with few minutes to spare. With regular practice and application of strategies, the AP exam writing process will feel much less intimidating.
Develop Broad Contextual Knowledge
Exploring outside context around the general time period, events, authors or philosophies mentioned in possible prompts gives your responses added depth and analysis. Having background knowledge helps discuss specific examples more insightfully. Sign up for review courses, read study guides or take practice tests to continually expand familiarity with areas commonly assessed. The more comfortable you become with diverse historical eras and ideas, the easier it will be to impress readers.
Earn that College Credit!
Following these AP essay writing tips will maximize your potential to clearly demonstrate a sophisticated, college-level analysis that thoroughly addresses all aspects of the prompt. Approach practice essays with rigor and commit to continuous improvement. With dedication to honing your skills, you’ll be well prepared come exam day to achieve those coveted high scores allowing you to potentially earn college credit to save money and jumpstart your education. Best of luck in your studies – you’ve got this!
Andrew Stroud