AP Art History Test Preparation

Hi everyone! I'm planning to take the AP Art History test next Spring and was hoping to get some insights from folks who have taken it before. Any study techniques or tips would be greatly appreciated!

Hello there! Taking the AP Art History test can be a rich and interesting experience with the right preparation. You get to immerse yourself in the world of art, delving deep into the historical details, critical analyses, and aesthetic appreciations of renowned and impactful artworks.

First things first, get a study guide or review book. A good review book will provide an overview of the course content, an analysis of the structure of the exam, practice questions, and tips for studying and test-taking. It can really help you understand what you’re going to be tested on, and build a strong base for your studying.

Pay special attention to The 250. The AP Art History exam particularly emphasizes 250 specific images (known as "The 250"). These are artworks, artifacts, and buildings from various periods and movements in history that the College Board considers most important. These should be your main focus when studying for the exam.

Remember that the exam is not just about identifying artworks; you need to understand them in their historical and social context. As a result, aim to develop a deep understanding of the historical events, cultural climate, and artistic movements surrounding each work.

As for studying, flashcards can be a helpful tool. Create flashcards with an image of the artwork on one side and key information on the other: the name of the work, the creator, the period, the location, and several key facts. Use these flashcards to review the artworks regularly.

The free-response questions on the exam are a big deal. They make up half of your score, and they require you to write essays analyzing artworks, comparing different works, or discussing art in context. Get familiar with the structure of these questions, and practice writing complete responses.

Finally, be sure to take plenty of practice tests. They'll give you a sense of what to expect on test day, and help you get used to the timing and format of the exam.

This is a broad-stroke strategy. There's a lot more to explore and many more study options to pursue. So, get excited! Studying for AP Art History is like taking a grand tour of the world's most fascinating art. Best of luck, you've got this!