The Best Study Guide for AP Human Geography in 2023
Preparation for the AP Human Geography exam requires a solid plan and the right study materials. This article reviews some of the top study guides available to help you excel in your AP Human Geography course and on the exam day.
Understanding the AP Human Geography Exam
Before diving into study guides, it's important to have a clear understanding of what the AP Human Geography exam entails. This is a challenging yet rewarding course that focuses on the human face of geography, including cultural patterns, economic activities, political interactions, and urban areas.
Targeting a 3 or 5
Your preparation level on the exam depends on your goal. For a 3, minimal intervention is needed as long as you pass the class and understand the material, which is sufficient to achieve that score.
If your goal is to achieve a 5, your approach should be more thorough. Classwork plays a crucial role, and consistent attendance, active learning, and high performance in class are key. Understanding how units interact and applying your knowledge indiscriminately during the exam can significantly boost your chances.
Top Study Guides for AP Human Geography
The following study guides are highly recommended for a thorough preparation:
Barron’s AP Human Geography
Barron’s AP Human Geography by Meredith Marsh Peter S. Alagona—This guide is comprehensive, covering all the topics that are tested in the AP exam. It includes detailed chapters, practice questions, and a thorough review of key concepts.
The Princeton Review’s Cracking the AP Human Geography Exam
Cracking the AP Human Geography Exam 2020 Premium Edition: 5 Practice Tests Full Content Review Proven Prep for the NEW 2020 Exam by Jennifer Balch—This book is highly acclaimed for its full content review, practice tests, and comprehensive test-taking strategies. The inclusion of 5 practice tests is particularly useful for assessing your progress and identifying weak areas.
AMSCO Advanced Placement Human Geography
AMSCO Advanced Placement Human Geography by David Palmer—Designed specifically for the AP Human Geography course, this book provides a detailed study guide, comprehensive explanations, and numerous examples to aid your understanding.
Additional Resources
Besides textbooks, there are other resources available that can complement your study plan:
Mr. Varley’s Motherload Packet
This resource is highly recommended for its thoroughness, as it covers nearly 100 pages of valuable content. It is a great supplement to the official textbooks and can provide additional practice and insights.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the right combination of study materials and a dedicated preparation plan can significantly influence your performance on the AP Human Geography exam. Whether you're aiming for a 3 or a 5, the above-listed study guides and resources can be invaluable in helping you achieve your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the best books for the 2020 AP Human Geography exam?
A: Some of the top picks include Barron’s AP Human Geography by Meredith Marsh Peter S. Alagona and Cracking the AP Human Geography Exam 2020 Premium Edition by Jennifer Balch. These books provide comprehensive coverage of the course material and practice tests to help you prepare effectively.
Further Reading
To dive deeper into AP Human Geography study strategies, consider exploring additional resources such as online forums, tutorials, and past exam papers. These can offer a wealth of insights and tips to enhance your preparation process.