Introduction
The AP World History: Modern exam is one of the most content-heavy AP tests. Spanning from 1200 CE to the present, it requires students to know major events, compare civilizations, and write essays that demonstrate historical thinking skills.
This 2025 AP World History Study Guide breaks down what you need to know, how to structure your study plan, and why RevisionDojo’s targeted resources are the best way to prepare.
AP World History Exam Format
Before studying, understand the structure:
- Section I (60% of exam):
- Multiple Choice (55 questions, 40%)
- Short Answer Questions (SAQs) (3 questions, 20%)
- Section II (40% of exam):
- Document-Based Question (DBQ) (25%)
- Long Essay Question (LEQ) (15%)
Key takeaway: The exam rewards connections, analysis, and writing skills — not just memorization.
AP World History Period Overview (1200–Present)
The exam is organized into six periods:
- Period 1 (1200–1450): Growth of trade routes (Silk Roads, Trans-Saharan, Indian Ocean). Rise of Mongol Empire.
- Period 2 (1450–1750): Age of Exploration, Columbian Exchange, Gunpowder Empires.
- Period 3 (1750–1900): Industrial Revolution, Enlightenment, Revolutions (American, French, Haitian).
- Period 4 (1900–Present): World Wars, Cold War, globalization.
- Period 5 & 6 (combined focus in Modern exam): Decolonization, modern political conflicts, technological shifts.
Exam Tip: Focus on causes, effects, and comparisons across regions.
Key AP World History Themes
The College Board uses five themes to structure questions:
- Humans and the Environment (ENV): Climate, migration, disease.
- Cultural Developments (CDI): Religions, philosophies, literacy.
- Governance (GOV): States, empires, revolutions.
- Economic Systems (ECN): Trade routes, industrialization, capitalism.
- Social Interactions (SIO): Class, race, gender roles.
How to study: Always connect an event to one of these themes.
How to Study AP World History in 2025
Step 1: Build a Timeline
- Break the content into periods.
- Use RevisionDojo’s interactive AP World timelines to visualize change over time.
Step 2: Focus on Big Patterns
- Don’t try to memorize every date.
- Instead, study major continuities and changes (CCOT).
Step 3: Practice Essay Writing
- Write 1–2 DBQs weekly.
- Practice contextualization (broad intro), thesis statements, and document grouping.
Step 4: Drill Multiple Choice & SAQs
- SAQs test application — not memorization.
- Practice with RevisionDojo’s auto-graded SAQs.
Step 5: Review Frequently
- Use spaced repetition flashcards.
- Revisit notes from Periods 3–4 (most heavily tested).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Memorizing dates instead of causes/effects.
- Forgetting comparisons (e.g., Industrial Revolution in Britain vs. Japan).
- Weak thesis statements on DBQs and LEQs.
- Not connecting events to AP themes.
The RevisionDojo Advantage
RevisionDojo makes AP World History prep efficient and exam-focused:
- Period-by-period study guides that condense key details.
- Flashcards & timelines that reinforce CCOT and comparisons.
- DBQ essay practice templates with scoring breakdowns.
- Realistic practice exams with explanations.
Unlike generic study sites, RevisionDojo is built to help you score higher in less time.
Conclusion
AP World History may feel overwhelming, but with the right plan, you can master it. Focus on patterns, themes, and essay practice, and use RevisionDojo for structured review.
This exam isn’t about cramming — it’s about showing the connections across world history. With daily practice, you’ll walk into the test ready to earn a 5.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many periods are on the AP World History exam?
A: Six, spanning 1200 CE to the present.
Q: What’s the hardest part of AP World History?
A: Most students struggle with writing DBQs and connecting events across regions.
Q: How do I memorize so much history?
A: Focus on themes, continuities, and changes rather than every detail. RevisionDojo’s tools make this easier.
Q: What should I study most?
A: Trade routes, Industrial Revolution, revolutions, and Cold War/globalization.
Q: Where can I find the best AP World History prep resources?
A: RevisionDojo offers timelines, DBQ practice, and guided study plans tailored for AP World.
