Day Before the APUSH Exam – Last-Minute Strategy That Actually Helps

PART 1 • MORNING & AFTERNOON

Day-before Study Plan (3–4 Focus Hours)

Step 1: Quick Reality Check (20–30 min)

• Enter latest scores into Score Calculator
• Identify weakest area → focus there first
• No panic — only polish known areas

Step 2: Unit Refresh (60–90 min)

• Open Unit-Wise Guide
• 5–10 min skim each unit → key terms + turning points
• Spend extra time only where marks are leaking

Step 3: Targeted Practice (45–60 min)

• If MCQ weak → 20–25 Q practice + review mistakes
• If SAQ weak → answer 1–2 SAQs clearly w/evidence
• If DBQ/LEQ weak → outline ONE practice essay using DBQ Tips / LEQ Tips

PART 2 • AVOID THESE

Common Last-Day Mistakes

• ❌ 8–10 hr study sessions
• ❌ Learning new units from scratch
• ❌ Exam anxiety group chats
• ❌ Comparing your score to others

Your job is to sharpen, not restart.

PART 3 • EVENING ROUTINE

Wind Down Without Losing Momentum

Step 4 — Light Night Review (30–45 min)

• Skim summary notes only
• Mentally rehearse DBQ/LEQ structure
• Check Common Mistakes page

Step 5 — Pack for Tomorrow

• ID + Admission ticket
• Pencils, pens, watch
• Water + light snack
• Comfortable layers

Step 6 — Protect Sleep

• Target 7+ hrs sleep
• Screen-off 30–45 mins before bed
• Tell yourself: I prepared, now I execute.

PART 4 • MINDSET

Reduce Stress + Boost Confidence

• Good = enough points for goal — not perfection
• Forgetting some facts is normal
• Everyone is nervous — you’re not alone

If anxiety hits → walk + breathe + reset.

Related Guides

• APUSH Test Day Checklist
• APUSH Tips for Getting a 5
• Time Management
• Common Mistakes to Avoid