AP English Literature and Composition

AP English Literature and Composition focuses on the analysis of literary texts and the development of critical reading and writing skills.

Close Reading and AnnotationLiterary Elements and DevicesPoetry Analysis
Prose Fiction AnalysisDrama and Play AnalysisLiterary Argumentation and Essay Writing
Applying Critical Reading SkillsCreative Writing Inspired by LiteratureDiscussion and Debate
Time Management for the AP ExamThesis and Evidence StrategyActive Reading Strategies
Close Reading and An...Literary Elements an...Poetry AnalysisProse Fiction Analys...Drama and Play Analy...Literary Argumentati...Applying Critical Re...Creative Writing Ins...Discussion and Debat...Time Management for ...Thesis and Evidence ...Active Reading Strat...
Study Strategies

Thesis and Evidence Strategy

Crafting a Focused Thesis and Using Evidence

A strong thesis and well-chosen evidence are the backbone of AP essays. Make your argument clear and back it up with specific references from the text.

How To Do It

  • Write a one-sentence thesis that answers the prompt directly.
  • Choose quotes that best support your point.
  • Briefly explain how each piece of evidence connects to your thesis.
  • Avoid plot summary—focus on analysis!

Exam Advantage

A clear thesis and strong evidence make your essays stand out to graders.

Examples

  • Underlining your thesis in your essay draft for clarity.

  • Selecting short, powerful quotes rather than long passages to support your argument.

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Active Reading Strategies