Free AP Prep
HardAP US History Study Guide & Prep
AP US History traces the development of American society from pre-Columbian civilizations to the present day. Students develop skills in historical reasoning, evidence analysis, and argumentation.
Units
9
Exam Duration
3 hours 15 minutes
Exam Format
55 multiple choice + 3 short-answer + 1 DBQ + 1 long essay
Key Topics Covered
- Colonial America & European Contact (1491–1607)
- British Colonial America (1607–1754)
- American Revolution & New Nation (1754–1800)
- Antebellum Period & Expansion (1800–1848)
- Civil War & Reconstruction (1844–1877)
- Industrialization & Gilded Age (1865–1898)
- Imperialism & Progressive Era (1890–1920)
- Great Depression, WWII & Cold War (1920–1980)
- Contemporary America (1980–Present)
About the AP US History Exam
The AP US History exam tests historical thinking skills and content knowledge across 9 periods using document-based and long essay questions.
All AP exams are administered by the College Board every May. Scores range from 1 to 5. Many colleges grant credit or advanced placement for scores of 3, 4, or 5.