The AP exam consists of two sections: a 1-hour multiple-choice section with 52 questions focused on reading comprehension and rhetorical analysis, and a 2-hour 15-minute free-response section with three essays (rhetorical analysis, argument, and synthesis). The exam is scored on a scale of 1-5, with a score of 3 or higher typically considered passing. Time management is critical—many students struggle with pacing, especially completing all three essays within the allotted time.

Students often struggle with identifying rhetorical devices and explaining their effect on the audience, crafting thesis statements that clearly articulate their analysis, and managing time across all three essay types. Many also find it challenging to balance close textual evidence with broader analytical commentary, and to avoid simply summarizing rather than analyzing. Working with a tutor can help you develop strategies for quickly identifying argument structure, strengthening your analytical writing, and building confidence in your essay responses.

Score improvement depends on your starting point and how actively you engage with tutoring. Students who work consistently with a tutor typically see meaningful gains—often moving from a 2 or 3 to a 4 or 5 by focusing on essay structure, rhetorical analysis skills, and targeted practice with past AP prompts. The key is identifying your specific weaknesses (whether that's argument construction, time management, or evidence integration) and practicing with feedback from someone who knows the exam inside and out.

Prioritize understanding rhetorical analysis—the foundation of the entire course—and practice writing timed essays under realistic exam conditions. Work on quickly identifying a writer's purpose, audience, and rhetorical strategies, then explaining their effects clearly and concisely. You'll also benefit from reviewing multiple sample essays, learning to structure arguments effectively, and developing strategies for synthesizing sources. Regular practice with released AP prompts, combined with feedback on your writing, helps you internalize what scorers are looking for.

Your first session is about understanding where you're starting from and what you need most. A tutor will likely review your current skills in rhetorical analysis and essay writing, discuss your goals (whether that's earning a 4, improving from a 3, or building confidence), and assess which aspects of the course challenge you most. From there, you'll develop a personalized plan focused on your priorities—whether that's mastering rhetorical devices, strengthening argument essays, or improving your test-taking pace.

Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors in Albuquerque who specialize in AP English Language and understand the specific demands of the exam. When you get matched with a tutor, you can discuss your schedule, learning style, and goals—whether you need help preparing months in advance or intensive support closer to test day. Tutors work with you on your timeline and can adjust their approach based on what's working best for your learning.

Ideally, you'll engage with tutoring throughout the school year as you progress through the curriculum, rather than waiting until spring. This allows you to build strong foundational skills in rhetorical analysis early, practice essays consistently, and address gaps before the exam in May. If you're already in spring and feeling behind, focused tutoring can still help you identify priorities and maximize your preparation time, but starting earlier gives you more opportunity to internalize skills and practice extensively.