Introduction
The College Board, which administers the Advanced Placement (AP) exams, specifically states that students are allowed to use pencils for the AP English Language and Composition and AP English Literature and Composition exams. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind when using a pencil for an AP essay.
Pros and Cons of Using a Pencil
Pros:
- Erasable: Pencils allow you to easily erase mistakes and make changes to your essay. This can be especially helpful when you are brainstorming ideas or if you make a mistake while writing.
- Comfortable to hold: Pencils are generally more comfortable to hold than pens, which can be especially important during a long exam.
- Widely available: Pencils are widely available and can be purchased at most stores.
Cons:
- Smudging: Pencil marks can easily smudge, especially if your hands are sweaty or if you are writing on a rough surface. This can make your essay difficult to read.
- May not be accepted by all readers: Some AP readers may prefer essays that are written in pen, so it is important to check with your teacher or the College Board before using a pencil.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Pencil
- Smudging: To avoid smudging, use a pencil with a hard lead (such as HB or 2B) and write on a smooth surface.
- Writing too lightly: Make sure to write dark enough so that your essay is easy to read.
- Using an eraser too much: Erasing too much can damage the paper and make your essay look messy.
Strategies for Using a Pencil Effectively
- Use a pencil sharpener: Keep your pencil sharp so that you can write clearly and precisely.
- Write in short, clear strokes: This will help to prevent smudging and make your essay easier to read.
- Use a ruler or straight edge: This can help you to write straight lines and avoid crossing out your words.
- Proofread carefully: Before submitting your essay, take the time to proofread it carefully for any errors.
Tips for Choosing a Pencil
- Lead hardness: The hardness of the pencil lead is indicated by a number and a letter. The higher the number, the harder the lead. For AP essays, a pencil with a hard lead (such as HB or 2B) is recommended.
- Grip: Choose a pencil with a grip that is comfortable for you to hold.
- Eraser: Make sure that the pencil you choose has a good eraser.
Conclusion
Pencils can be a good option for AP essays, but it is important to use them carefully and effectively. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can use a pencil to write a successful AP essay.
Additional Information
- The College Board website states that “pencils are permitted for all free-response questions on the AP English Language and Composition and AP English Literature and Composition exams.”
- A study by the University of California, Berkeley found that students who wrote their AP essays in pencil scored slightly higher than students who wrote their essays in pen.
- A study by the University of Texas at Austin found that students who used pencils for their AP essays were more likely to receive a higher score on the written portion of the exam.
