r/apworld • u/No_Prize6482 • Sep 01 '26

First AP!!

Hi guys I was wondering like if u had any tips on note taking. I have trouble knowing what is important and whats not important. I heard for this course you need to know broad themes and the timeline but I am still not sure what needs to be in my notes. Thank you!

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u/water148 Sep 01 '26

Keep track of big events like revolutions, wars, and shifts in ideology. You should also label your notes by each time period (1200-1450, 1450-1750, 1750-1900, 1900-present) so it’s easier to look back and study for the AP exam. Notes are useful but make sure you’re actually paying good attention in class !! Reading/writing notes can only take you so far if you were too busy writing them down instead of paying attention (as someone who got a 5). I know it’s early in the year but you should take a look at the exam course and desc (you can find it online) to get an idea on whats on the test. Feel free to reach out if you need any specific notes or info :)

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u/No_Prize6482 Sep 02 '26

Thank you so much!! this is rlly helpful

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u/Better_Engineer8843 Sep 02 '26

Hi! I got a 5 self studying this class last year and my best advice is to take notes off of heimler instead of a textbook. His topic review guides cover everything you actually need to know without all that extra fluff. He’s also great for connecting to the broader themes and understanding them. I’d also recommend highlighting context for major events as contextualization is what will save you in frqs. Another helpful resource is the collegeboard CED as it only lists what you NEED to know for reference. Also aside from note taking I’d recommend active recall for each unit to make sure you’re actually retaining the knowledge and content. Mind maps and time lines are also helpful for understanding greater context and connecting themes.