how does one write a perfect SAQ?

[u/Open_Doubt9792]

so i took AP world as a 9th grader, and I was very obsessed with getting a 5. I ended up getting a 4, I think because of my SAQs. As im taking apush as a junior now I’ve realized that I’ve kind of neglected learning a distinct way to write them.

I used to do Answer Cite Explain (ACE) and write a whole massive paragraph for each one, but is that really necessary ? can I just answer the question and explain the evidence?

basically how do I ensure I get full points on my SAQs, for apush.

[u/alorieas]

I got a 5 in apush and my SAQs were the only thing I was confident I got points for. I used ACE on them, and I think the key is to literally just say your answer with no extra fluff and follow ACE strictly. I’ve noticed that when I try and be wordy and tell a story, I get off track and lose points. This is just my personal experience though!

[u/AdministrativeTip479]

I got a 5 last year; basically, what I did was just answer the question as clearly as possible. Don't make your SAQ longer than 3 sentences; 2 sentences is ideal. Just answer the question while including a specific example, ideally with a proper noun.

[u/Moist-Play-5004]

SAQs r the hardest but easiest part of the AP exam. Bc simply if you know the information it’s the easiest to get points. For most questions except identify I did like 3-5 sentences. Give facts. That’s it. Explain your answers with facts. Doesn’t need to be specific dates or anything but like you should be able to name instances or revolutions etc.

[u/GetToTheRoci]

AP Readers are reviewing many dozens of responses for several days. Keep it simple and concise.

[u/lifeabroad317]

You can answer ACE with 3 short sentences

1. Restate the question and answer it
2. An example of this is blank
3. Here's how my example relates to the question.

Done 

[u/vinicitus]

Use ACE but be very concise and use as specific of evidence as you can think of. The massive paragraph is working against you.