The easiest part of studying is memorizing vocabulary, but that is, unfortunately, not a large part of this class. Most of material here is understanding how government works. Not how something happens, but WHY it happens. Why do Republicans vote certain ways on certain issues? I sure as heck don't know. I'm not sure anybody knows. But you gotta understand why people do crazy stuff like join the Republican Party. You will also have to memorize some political roles and stuff like that. Who is the Speaker of the House, who is the most important member of the executive staff, etcetera. Making flash cards helps a lot of people, but it might not help you. Maybe you like to study by reading. Maybe you study orally. Maybe you study by writing down information. Maybe its Maybelline. It doesn't matter how you study best, as long as you find a way that works. If flashcards really don't help you, then don't waste your time making them. experiment with it and try different methods out, but make sure you get one before you get too close to the AP test. When I was a young and free spirit, much like yourself, I found the most effective way of studying was to write down information, and repeat it to yourself aloud. It also helps to make up mnemonic devices to help you remember things like amendments and court cases. Mnemonic devices are word tricks you use to remember something. Brock will probably suggest a few during the class, but you should make up a few of your own, too.