Is the World History AP Exam Hard?

If you’re considering taking the World History AP Exam, you may be wondering whether it’s a difficult test. The answer, as with most things, is that it depends. However, there are several factors to consider when assessing the difficulty of the World History AP Exam.

Content Coverage

One of the most challenging aspects of the World History AP Exam is the breadth of content covered. The exam covers world history from approximately 8000 BCE to the present day, encompassing multiple regions and civilizations. This means that you’ll need to have a strong understanding of a wide range of historical events and trends.

Test Format

Another factor that affects the difficulty of the World History AP Exam is its format. The exam consists of two sections: a multiple-choice section and a free-response section.

The multiple-choice section comprises 55 questions and accounts for 40% of your score. The free-response section includes three essay questions and accounts for 60% of your score.

Preparation

Your level of preparation can also influence how difficult you find the World History AP Exam. If you’ve taken rigorous history courses throughout high school and have developed strong study habits, you may find that the exam is more manageable than someone who hasn’t had as much exposure to historical content.

Tips for Success

Regardless of how difficult you find the World History AP Exam, there are several tips that can help set you up for success:

  • Start studying early: With so much content to cover, it’s crucial to start studying well in advance.
  • Create a study schedule: Develop a schedule that allows you to cover all necessary content without burning out.
  • Practice writing essays: The free-response section is worth more than half your score, so it’s important to practice writing strong essays that effectively address the prompts.
  • Use study materials: There are many resources available to help you prepare for the exam, including review books and online study guides. Take advantage of these resources to supplement your own studying.

The Bottom Line

The World History AP Exam is a challenging exam that requires a broad understanding of historical content and strong test-taking skills. However, with careful preparation and an effective study plan, you can set yourself up for success on exam day.