Multiple Choice Strategies

Let’s face it – comprehensive assessments, such as the AP English Language and Composition Exam, require you to demonstrate all that you have learned throughout the course; however, it does help to know some strategies when approaching the questions. Sometimes, it not only benefits you to think like a test-taker but also like a test-maker. Below you will find some strategies to implement in the multiple choice section.

Strategy 1: Anticipate the Answer

Read the passage first. Look at the question being asked but cover up the answer choices with your hand. Answer the question on your own. Then, look at the answer choices. Does the answer you came up with match any of the answer choices? If so, the matching answer is often the correct one.

Strategy 2: Gut the Passages

Timing can be quite a challenge on the AP English Language and Composition MC section. If you do the math, you have to complete 45 questions in 60 minutes: that is 1.33 questions per minute. Students spend a lot of time reading through passages; however, remember that you can often “gut” a passage – read the introductory paragraph, the first and last sentences of each body paragraph, and then the concluding paragraph. Reading these parts of a passage will give you a solid overview of what the passage entails. You might need to go back and look more closely at parts of the passage when looking at the questions.

Strategy 3: Preview the Questions

Some students find that reviewing the questions and what they are asking first will help with understanding the passage itself. Think about it: if you know that a question is asking about the function of a particular paragraph, you know to focus on that paragraph. Sometimes knowing what to read for can also help you read more quickly.

Strategy 4: Know the Question Types

The previous lesson provided an overview of the types of questions on the AP English Language and Composition MC section of the exam. Keep these question types in mind when tackling the MC section! Knowing what kinds of questions you’re going to be asked will help you approach the passages.

An Important Note

Of course, you have to practice honing your skills on this portion of the exam. Take some time to apply each of these skills and strategies to the practices you complete in the course and in AP Classroom. You’ve already completed a practice on AP Classroom; in the next assignment, you will complete another. Take some time to apply one of the strategies from above to see if you find it helpful.

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