Master the art of online AP classes

Balancing schedules between home, school, and family can be a challenge. Back-to-school season can be filled with academic pressure to perform well. The anticipation of new coursework, assignments and exams can create anxiety while adjusting to a new schedule.  

With the right mindset and a well-structured learning environment, you can set yourself up for success and challenge yourself in your online AP classes. Here are five keys for success in online AP classes…

1. Create a dedicated home space

One of the key aspects of successful learning at home is having a dedicated and organized home space. Choose a quiet and comfortable area in your home where you can focus without distractions. Set up a desk, comfortable chair, and necessary supplies like notebooks, pens, and a computer. Let this space be your study space. It can be tempting to use this space for other activities like calling your friends, a movie or that much needed nap. Don’t do it. Your body needs to learn what is expected in this study space. Turn off notifications. Put your phone away and let others around you know you are dedicating this time to study.  

2. Set consistent routines

Routines offer focus and a sense of calm. A daily schedule is key to successful learning because it reduces the number of decisions made in a day. Aristotle teaches us, “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence then is not an act, but a habit.” If you are purposeful about smart habits day after day, you are choosing excellence. Select specific time slots for your online AP classes, study session, breaks and meals. Start your day by choosing the most important and most challenging task you need to accomplish. Do this task first. Reduce the number of decisions you need to make in a day by deciding on a standard breakfast or the same time to exercise each day. Consistency helps your brain anticipate when it is time to focus and time to relax.  

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence then is not an act, but a habit.” If you are purposeful about smart habits day after day, you are choosing excellence.

3. Find your prime time

One approach does not fit everyone when it comes to studying. The best time for deep study varies from person to person. Factors include energy levels, body rhythms, and personal preferences. Finding your prime time for studying can make a big difference in your productivity. Ever tried to start writing an essay at 3 pm in the afternoon, only to stare at the page? So frustrating! Mornings and evenings are typically times when the brain is more alert and creative. Try to avoid the afternoon hours for deep studying and creative tasks. Afternoons are great for replying to discussion posts and email, simple tasks.  

4. Use all your resources

Take advantage of the many resources available to you in your online AP classes. If you are facing a challenge, your teacher is your best resource! They are there to support you and provide valuable guidance. We all have difficult weeks. During challenging times it’s important to know you are not alone. From discussion forums, video tutorials, practice quizzes, there are many ways you can learn and stay connected to others in positive ways. Explore and find the right one for you.  

We all have difficult weeks… there are many ways you can learn and stay connected to others in positive ways. Explore and find the right one for you.  

5. Stay active and take breaks

Sitting in front of a screen for hours can be draining. Taking breaks and finding ways to stay active will help you manage stress and avoid burnout. Plan a walk, exercise at the gym, or a quick game with some friends to get up and stay energized. We recommend breaking your study sessions into 60–90 minutes (about 1.5 hours). Take a break for 5–15 minutes in between these sessions to keep your brain active and ready to learn. I like to turn on a favorite song and dance in the living room to get my heart rate up. If the weather is good, going outside for a walk can be a perfect screen break. Drink a glass of water. Stand up and do a quick puzzle or game of solitaire to get your brain working in a different way. Or try a quick drawing to get creative.  

Your best break is the time to sleep at the end of each day. Sleep is so overlooked because it seems like there is always more to do in the day! It’s true, there is always more to do. We don’t have time to do everything. There is time for the most important—and sleep is the most important aspect impacting problem solving, memory, and creative thinking. Sleep helps your body fight illness and keeps you in a good mood during the day.  

We don’t have time to do everything. There is time for the most important—and sleep is the most important aspect impacting problem solving, memory, and creative thinking.

Online AP classes can help you reach your academic goals and add value to your life overall. With the right preparation and mindset, you can get ready to ace those exams and prepare yourself to thrive this school year.  

The key is not about doing more, but about having the right approach. How do you want to extend your goals further this year? You can achieve more than you think.