AP Season: The Final Push
As May approaches at Leonia High School, AP students are going into intense review sessions while juggling college decisions, and extracurricular activities. With exams just around the corner, the pressure is on but students, teachers, and counselors are working together to meet the challenges
I spoke with AP students, teachers, and counselors to get a full picture of how our school community is navigating the pressure of marking period four.
For many AP students, this year has been all about international preparation. “This year, I’ve been more intentional with my study schedule,” said an AP student. “Ive been using a mix of active recall, spaced, repetition, and practice tests, especially for AP Biology and AP Calc. I also started studying with others instead of always going solo. Study groups help me understand complex topics from different angles.”
Another student explained the power of planning ahead. “I try to break down my study sessions into smaller, more manageable chunks and set specific goals for each session. Another big challenge is staying motivated when things get tough, so I remind myself that all the hard work now will pay off later. I also make sure to get enough sleep and take breaks to avoid burnout.” And when it comes to resources, students cited tools like Barron’s and Princeton Review books, Khan Academy, Quizlet and past exam questions. “The most effective method for me has been active recall testing myself on what I’ve studied, instead of just reading or passively reviewing.”
With finals and AP tests falling around the same time, students often struggle to maintain balance. “Using a planner to block out study time and downtime is essential,” one student shared, “I’ve learned to say no to extra commitments if I’m stretched too thin. Studying in focused bursts with breaks keeps me efficient.”
To avoid burnout, many students turn to mindfulness, exercise, and rest. “I take short walks to clear my head, eat well, and get enough sleep,” one student shared, “If I feel overwhelmed, I take a longer break and remind myself to focus on one thing at a time”.
Teachers know better than anyone what helps students succeed on AP exams, and their advice is backed by research and experience.
“Psychological studies show that students should study over several study sessions rather than cramming,” one AP teacher explained, “Also, quizzing yourself is key and it forces you to recall information, which is exactly what you need to do on test day.”
The most common mistake students make? Starting too late. “Many wait until the last minute and try to pull all-nighters, but REM sleep after studying is essential”. A full night’s sleep can make a huge difference.”
While academics are front and center during finals season, school counselors remind students to keep their mental health in mind too.
“One of the biggest challenges is trying to juggle studying with keeping up in other classes,” said one counselor. “Many students wait too long to start preparing which only adds to the pressure”.
She also reinforced that support is available, and students are encouraged to use it, “Teachers are the best resource and they’re already preparing you for the tests. And don’t forget about honor society tutoring programs, like the NHS, which offer helpful drop in hours.”
For students that feel overwhelmed, the message is simple but powerful “Try not to put too much pressure on yourself. It’s easy to feel like everything is riding on these exams, but in reality you have more control than you think” as well as giving yourself room to breathe.
Ap and finals season can feel like a sprint and a marathon rolled into one. But with smart strategies, balanced routines, and the right support systems, students can make it through with confidence and maybe even a little but of peace of mind
Good luck, and don’t forget to take breaks and remember to breathe.
