Many students struggle with three main areas: managing the sheer volume of content across centuries of history, developing strong essay-writing skills for the free-response section, and understanding how to analyze primary sources effectively. Additionally, the multiple-choice section requires quick recall and the ability to distinguish between similar historical events—skills that improve significantly with targeted practice and strategic review.

Start by taking a practice test to identify your weakest content areas and question types. Then prioritize: (1) building a solid timeline and understanding cause-and-effect relationships between major events, (2) practicing essay writing with real AP prompts to develop clear thesis statements and historical evidence, and (3) learning test-taking strategies like process of elimination and time management. A tutor can help you create a study schedule that balances content review with timed practice tests.

Tutors work with you on the specific essay formats tested on the AP exam—the document-based question (DBQ), long essay question (LEQ), and short-answer questions. They'll help you develop strong thesis statements, learn how to incorporate evidence from sources effectively, and practice organizing your thoughts under time pressure. Regular feedback on your essays, combined with analysis of what high-scoring responses look like, builds the skills you need to earn points in the free-response section.

Ideally, start tutoring in the fall or early winter if you're taking the exam in May. This gives you time to review content systematically, identify weak areas, and build essay-writing skills before shifting to intensive practice tests closer to exam day. However, even starting in spring can help—tutors can prioritize the most heavily tested topics and focus on test-taking strategies and practice under timed conditions.

Primary sources are central to the AP exam—they appear in multiple-choice questions, the DBQ, and short-answer questions. Understanding how to extract meaning from documents, identify the author's perspective, and connect sources to historical context is essential. Tutors help you develop a systematic approach to source analysis, teaching you what to look for and how to use evidence from documents to support historical arguments in your essays.

Your first session typically focuses on assessment and planning. A tutor will discuss your current understanding of the material, review your goals for the exam, and often have you take a practice test or work through sample questions to identify your strengths and weaknesses. From there, you'll develop a personalized study plan that targets your specific needs—whether that's content gaps, essay writing, test-taking speed, or managing test anxiety.

While AP European History curriculum is standardized across the country, tutors in Philadelphia are familiar with the schools and teachers in the area, which helps them understand your specific course focus and exam expectations. Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors who can provide personalized instruction tailored to your needs, access to practice materials aligned with the AP exam, and strategies that work for your learning style—whether you're at a public school, charter, or private institution across the Philadelphia area.