Difficulty with AP European History

Hey guys,

I am a freshman who is taking AP European History. It is my first AP class, and I am required to take it in the Pre-IB program. History is not my best subject, but I feel like I can earn an 4 or 5 on the exam and A’s on tests in the class. However, I have not been doing so well on the tests… My teacher is new to AP Euro too. I study for plenty of hours, read the textbook chapters 2-3 times, take detailed notes, go through my review book, refer to online resources, go through the study guides with my friends, give it my best, and always listen in class. I have a great understanding of the concepts and events, and can explain them clearly in my own words, but the AP questions always throw me off and I end up getting a low B or high C. I usually tend to see two equally good or vague/unclear answer choices. I know I can do better, and most kids just skim over the content or study just for a couple hours, earning a much higher grade than me. I know the course is almost over, but what can I do to try to get a 4-5? I took the mock exam and got a high 3 on multiple choice. Is it because this is my first AP course? Many people tell me I’m studying a wrong way, but I’m trying to study in almost every possible way… The AP Exam is coming up, and if anyone can help me out, I would really appreciate it!

Hmm…I’m taking AP Euro this year too but, I haven’t had that much trouble, even though my teacher isn’t that great…maybe you need to change the way you interact with text? It could be that your approach just doesn’t suit your learning patterns.

If you’re studying a lot it could be that you are able to easily answer specific questions but maybe forget to zoom out and look at how things relate to one another. Really analyzing test questions might help too, be sure of what they’re asking you.

To prep for the exam you should get a review book…Barron’s is pretty good…and try to reevaluate your study methods.