What determines scoring a 1 on an AP exam and how can it be avoided?

Okay, so I'm kinda stressing here because I just started prepping for my AP exams next year. I keep hearing about scoring a 1 and how it could hurt your college app. What usually leads a student to score that low, and what strategies are there to make sure I stay as far away from a 1 as possible? I'm willing to put in the work; I just wanna know what kind of work I should focus on.

I understand the pressure you're feeling as you prepare for your AP exams. Scoring a 1 on an AP exam typically indicates that a student has not grasped much of the content, or perhaps wasn't adequately prepared for the exam format and types of questions asked. To avoid scoring a 1, your preparation should be focused and consistent.

Start reviewing the material early and create a study plan that covers all the topics you'll need to know for the exam. Utilize resources available to you such as review books, AP classroom materials, or online resources like Khan Academy and the College Board's own AP resources. Practice with past AP exam questions will help familiarize you not just with the content, but also with the type of questioning you can expect.

Also, don't underestimate the power of a study group. Discussing challenging concepts with your peers can often provide new insights and aid in retention. And if you find it's not clicking, consider reaching out to your teacher, as they might be able to provide additional clarification or resources. Remember that the aim isn't just to avoid scoring a 1, but to truly understand the material, which will be beneficial not just for the exam, but for your overall education.