Comments on: Cracking the AP U.S. Government and Politics Exam, 2006-2007 Edition

By: Kevin L. Poindexter

Kevin L. Poindexter — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 13:34:26 +0000

I purchased this review book in the hope that I could use it to teach myself the material for the exam. The information presented in the book was both comprehensive and brief enough to keep the book easy to read. I read this book without taking a class and received a 5 on the exam. Although the questions in the book are slightly harder than the real exam, they are still very helpful as a preparation for the exam. I recommend this book to those who want to do well on the exam.
Rating: 5 / 5

By: Gene P. Louie

Gene P. Louie — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 11:54:23 +0000

This 273 page book uses a similar format as all other review books with the exception of Pamela K. Lamb's FIVE STEPS TO A 5 ON THE AP: U.S. GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS. For example, it has a multiple-choice section that explains the types of questions, using the process of elimination to isolate the answer, and using common sense. On the essay section, there are suggestions to address the question, providing evidence, and planning and writing the essay. On these two areas, the Princeton Review does a better job on "strategizing" and goes into detail on arriving at the answer than any of the other books.

The subject review is also the best, about a half-step up from Soifer's U.S. GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS. The reviews are covered in narrative format and contained many details. The length is just right.

Like similar publications, it has two sample AP tests with explanation of the answers. Unfortunately, the explanations are not as good and as detailed as in Soifer.

In the end, there is a glossary of key terms with definitions and a copy of the U.S. Constitution.

Despite the pluses, the book fails in a few areas. First, it does not have sample multiple-choice questions at the end of each subject review section. Second, the contents is lacking in basic tables, illustrations, and charts. Examples include a visual breakdown of powers given in the Constitution, or an illustration of the various ways that the three branches of government "check and balanc" each other, or a listing of the important U.S. Supreme Court cases. These things are very important. Third, there is no listing of internet resources for further study.

If you "can live" without these things, the test taking advice and content information are "well worth the purchase."
Rating: 4 / 5

By: J. Miller

J. Miller — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 10:41:26 +0000

We found this very helpful in reviewing for the AP exam. Did very well on the test.

Would recommend.
Rating: 4 / 5

By: Erin Lois Owens

Erin Lois Owens — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 09:51:18 +0000

All of the “Cracking the AP _____” books are incredible. I used two of them last year with great results; they probably are the sole reason for my 4 in both tests. I bought this book because I knew it would help me learn what I need to know to pass the test.
Rating: 5 / 5

By: C. Wong

C. Wong — Sat, 06 Feb 2010 07:35:31 +0000

It’s REALLY GOOD!!! I got a 4 on the AP U.S. Gov’t & Politics exam!!!
Rating: 5 / 5