AP Environmental Science Review: What to focus on?

Hey, I'm self-studying AP Environmental Science this year. Any veterans out there who can tell me which areas deserves the most attention during reviewing? Also, what were the hardest concepts for you to grasp?

While the AP Environmental Science Exam is comprehensive and includes information from the entire year of coursework, there are a few key areas you can focus on that typically comprise a significant portion of the exam:

1. Earth Systems and Resources: This makes up about 10-15% of the exam and covers topics like Earth's atmosphere, geology, soil science, and plate tectonics.

2. Ecosystems and Biodiversity: You'll want to understand the dynamics of populations of species within their ecosystems, which make up about 10-15% of the exam.

3. Population: This is a biggie, about 10-15% of the exam is dedicated to human population dynamics. Be prepared to discuss demographic transitions, population growth models, and impacts of human population growth on natural resources.

4. Land and Water Use: This includes agriculture, forestry, and land development which is about 10-15% of the exam.

5. Energy Resources and Consumption: Another substantial chunk of the exam (10-15%) delves into energy concepts, both renewable and non-renewable resources.

Students sometimes find the material covering pollution and global change to be more challenging as it involves not only understanding the science but also the policy and public health aspects. Solutions to environmental problems, which will require an understanding of environmental laws, regulations, and policy, can also be difficult for some students.

Remember to focus on understanding concepts rather than rote memorization, as the AP Exams are designed to test your ability to apply the knowledge you've learned.

Practice exams are invaluable resources for you as they not only help you understand the format of the exam but also give you a sense of which topics you struggle with most. Frequently review the material you've already covered to make sure it sticks, and make a study plan that includes plenty of practice questions and full-length simulations of the exam. This will not only help you gauge your readiness but also help you get a grasp on your pacing for the actual exam. Good luck!