The exam has two sections: multiple-choice and free-response. The multiple-choice section includes 55 questions with single and paired stimuli (documents, maps, images) that you have 55 minutes to complete. The free-response section has three essays—a document-based question (DBQ), long essay question, and short-answer questions—completed in 100 minutes. Scoring ranges from 1-5, with a 3 considered passing and colleges typically granting credit for scores of 4 or 5.

Students often struggle with the sheer volume of content spanning 800+ years across multiple continents, making it difficult to retain key events and connections. Many find the DBQ and long essay questions challenging because they require strong analytical writing and evidence synthesis rather than just factual recall. Time management is another common issue—students may spend too long on multiple-choice questions and rush through essays, or struggle to organize their thoughts quickly under timed conditions.

Expert tutors work with you to build a personalized study plan that targets your specific weak areas, whether that's understanding thematic connections, mastering essay structure, or improving multiple-choice strategy. They teach you how to analyze sources effectively, manage time during the exam, and develop strong thesis statements and evidence-based arguments. Regular practice with released AP exams and targeted feedback on your essays helps build confidence and identify patterns in the types of questions that challenge you most.

Your first session will focus on understanding your current knowledge level, learning goals, and test timeline. A tutor will likely assess which time periods, regions, or themes feel strongest and where you need the most support, then discuss your essay-writing skills and test-taking habits. Together, you'll create a personalized roadmap for your remaining study time, identifying which topics to prioritize and what practice strategies will work best for your learning style.

Most students benefit from consistent preparation over several months rather than cramming. If you're starting 3-4 months before the exam, aim for 5-7 hours of focused study per week, incorporating content review, practice questions, and full-length practice exams. In the final month, increase to 8-10 hours weekly with emphasis on timed essay practice and reviewing your mistake patterns. A tutor helps you use this time efficiently by targeting your specific gaps rather than reviewing material you already know well.

Strong essays start with a clear, historically complex thesis that directly addresses the prompt—not just a general statement. For the DBQ, spend 15 minutes analyzing documents to identify patterns, perspectives, and gaps before writing; use at least 6 documents as evidence and explain their historical context. For the long essay, use the same approach: develop a specific argument, organize body paragraphs around distinct supporting points, and include relevant examples from different regions or time periods to demonstrate global perspective.

Anxiety often decreases when you feel prepared, so practicing with full-length timed exams regularly builds confidence and familiarity with the format. During the exam, manage your time by quickly scanning all questions first, tackling easier multiple-choice items first, and allocating specific time blocks for each essay. Taking deep breaths between sections and reminding yourself that you don't need a perfect score to earn college credit can help reduce pressure—many students earn a 3 or 4 with strategic studying.