The AP Environmental Science (APES) exam covers a wide range of topics — from ecosystems to global climate change — and demands both conceptual understanding and data analysis skills. While your class notes and labs form the foundation, a great APES review book can make the difference between a passing score and a 5.
At RevisionDojo, we’ve reviewed the top AP Environmental Science prep books available in 2025, ranking them based on content accuracy, exam alignment, clarity, practice materials, and student feedback.
1. Princeton Review – Cracking the AP Environmental Science Exam
Why it’s our top pick:
The Princeton Review APES book balances comprehensive content review with exam strategy. It’s ideal for students who want clear explanations, plenty of practice, and targeted tips for tricky multiple-choice and FRQ sections.
Pros:
- Full-length content review for all 9 APES units.
- Two full-length practice exams with detailed answer explanations.
- “Exam Watch” callouts for common mistakes.
- Accessible writing style, perfect for last-minute review.
Cons:
- May feel too condensed for students who need in-depth explanations.
- Diagrams could be more detailed.
Best For: Students who want a balanced prep resource combining review and practice.
2. Barron’s AP Environmental Science
Why it’s a strong choice:
Barron’s is known for depth and rigor, making it perfect for students who want thorough explanations and are willing to invest more study time.
Pros:
- Extensive topic coverage, ideal for those aiming for a 5.
- Five full-length practice exams.
- Detailed lab investigation explanations.
- Strong glossary for APES terms and laws.
Cons:
- More text-heavy; can overwhelm beginners.
- Not as concise for last-minute cramming.
Best For: Students who want in-depth prep and aren’t intimidated by a dense book.
3. 5 Steps to a 5: AP Environmental Science
Why we like it:
This book offers a clear, step-by-step study plan for the APES exam, making it great for students who want structured guidance.
Pros:
- Flexible study plans for different timelines.
- Online practice tests included.
- Great tips for test-day strategy.
Cons:
- Less detailed than Barron’s or Princeton Review.
- Fewer visuals and diagrams.
Best For: Students who want a guided schedule for their APES prep.
4. AMSCO AP Environmental Science
Why it stands out:
AMSCO books are often used as class textbooks. They’re aligned to the AP course framework and ideal for year-long study.
Pros:
- Strong unit organization matching College Board CED.
- Practice questions embedded after each section.
- Clear connections between topics and FRQs.
Cons:
- Less focused on test strategy.
- No full-length exams (requires supplementing).
Best For: Students who want a primary textbook replacement.
5. Sterling Test Prep AP Environmental Science Practice Questions
Why it’s useful:
Sterling is practice-only, making it a great add-on resource for students who already know the content but want more drills.
Pros:
- Hundreds of MCQs with explanations.
- Topic-specific question sets.
- Good for reinforcing weak areas.
Cons:
- No content review.
- FRQ practice is minimal.
Best For: Students who want extra question practice before test day.
How to Choose the Right APES Review Book
When picking your book, consider:
- Your starting point — Are you building knowledge or refining it?
- Timeline — Long-term prep works best with Barron’s or AMSCO; short-term favors Princeton Review or 5 Steps.
- Learning style — Prefer concise summaries? Go Princeton. Need deep dives? Go Barron’s.
RevisionDojo’s Recommended Combo for a 5
- Primary Review: Princeton Review for strategy + clear review.
- Deep Dive Reference: Barron’s for detailed concepts.
- Extra Practice: Sterling for more MCQs.
FAQs
Q: Is one review book enough for APES?
A: Yes, if your class instruction is strong — but combining a content review book with extra practice is better.
Q: Should I use Barron’s or Princeton Review for APES?
A: If you want concise strategy and review, go Princeton. If you want depth, go Barron’s.
Q: Can I self-study APES with just a review book?
A: Yes, especially if you use College Board’s free FRQs and practice questions alongside it.
Final Take – RevisionDojo Advice:
Your APES review book is your exam-day training manual. Pick one that fits your style and pair it with official College Board resources.
For complete APES study schedules and FRQ analysis packs, check out RevisionDojo’s AP Environmental Science Hub.
