Surviving AP US History?

I'm a high school junior enrolled in AP US History, and I've been struggling a bit. Can you guys please recommend any resources or studying techniques that will help me pass both the class and the AP test? I really appreciate it!

First, kudos to you for being proactive about seeking help in AP US History! Here are a few resources and studying techniques that can help you succeed in the class and on the AP exam:

1. Textbook: Start with your assigned textbook and make sure you read the chapters thoroughly. Take notes as you read to help with retention, and review them before quizzes and tests.

2. Review Books: Consider purchasing a review book like "The Princeton Review: Cracking the AP U.S. History Exam" or "Barron's AP United States History." These books condense the material, provide practice exams, and offer test-taking strategies.

3. Online Resources: Free, high-quality online resources include Khan Academy, Crash Course U.S. History (YouTube series), and APUSHreview.com. Additionally, the College Board's AP Classroom has resources, including practice questions and resources provided by your teacher.

4. Study Groups: Form a study group with other students in your class. Meet regularly to discuss the material, ask questions, and quiz each other. Sharing perspectives and explanations can help deepen your understanding.

5. Create Study Tools: Develop flashcards, mind maps, timelines, or charts that summarize key events, people, and important themes. Review these often to reinforce your understanding.

6. Practice Writing: AP US History requires you to write essays, such as Document-Based Questions (DBQs) or Long Essay Questions (LEQs). Practice writing under timed conditions to improve your ability to analyze documents and craft coherent, well-structured responses.

7. Analyze Past Exams: Review past AP exams to familiarize yourself with the types of questions you'll encounter. This will give you a sense of what to expect and help you gauge your progress.

8. Ask for Help: Approach your teacher with any questions or concerns you have about the material. They may be able to clarify concepts or provide guidance on study strategies.

9. Create a Study Schedule: Designate specific study times and allocate time to different topics or question types consistently. Stick to your schedule, and be sure to include breaks to avoid burnout.

10. Practice, practice, practice: Familiarize yourself with different types of multiple-choice questions and learn how to manage your time effectively on the exam. The more you practice, the more confident and prepared you'll be for test day.

Remember that learning takes time, and it's okay to struggle as long as you're persistent and seeking help when needed. Good luck with AP US History!