AP Lang tips & tricks

Different ways to say “shows” or “says”

Suggests Validates acknowledges implies recognizes asserts

Justifies/Justify exemplifies

Show Nuance {gives sophistication point}

a subtle differences

• Weak: “Social media destroys communication.”

• Nuanced: “While social media can weaken face-to-face communication in some contexts, it also expands access to diverse perspectives.”

Diction

Specific Word choice to reveal author’s attitude and establish tone

Allusion

References well known texts to add depth and context

Syntax

Intentional arrangement of words, phrases, and clauses to form sentences, creating specific effects like pacing, tone, or emphasis

The author uses short, abrupt sentences to emphasize the urgency of the situation and draw the reader’s attention to the severity of the issue

The author uses a series of short sentences to build intensity and convey a sense of frustration.”

How to develop commentary

DONT INDENTIFY DEVICE-QUOTE-MOVE ON

“So what? How does this choice help the author achieve their purpose?”

1. What is the effect of the choice?
2. Why does that effect matter?
3. How does it connect to the author’s purpose?

By using inclusive language like “we,” the author creates a sense of unity, positioning the audience as directly involved in the issue. This appeals to their sense of responsibility, making them more likely to accept the author’s call to action.

Commentary for Argument Essay

• Explain cause and effect

• Explain why the example matters

Social media harms mental health. For example, many teens feel anxious when using Instagram.

Social media harms mental health. For example, many teens feel anxious when using platforms like Instagram. This anxiety often stems from constant comparison to curated images, which creates unrealistic standards and lowers self-esteem, reinforcing the idea that social media can negatively shape users’ self-perception.

Commentary for Synthesis Essay

Explain how the evidence supports your argument AND how the sources relate to each other

While Source A emphasizes the long-term effectiveness of renewable energy, Source B highlights its high initial costs. Together, these perspectives reveal a key tension between sustainability and economic feasibility, suggesting that while renewable energy is beneficial, its implementation requires careful financial planning.

Exigence

The specific issue, problem, or situation that motivates a person to write or speak. I

Tone

sarcastic, hopeful, urgent, critical, nostalgic

Why? Influences how the audience should feel about the topic

Audience Awareness

• Direct address (“you”)

• Inclusive language (“we”)

• Adjusting tone for specific groups

👉 Why? Makes the message more relatable and persuasive

Metaphor

comparing two things

Anedcote

Recalls a time when

tells a story about

Hyperbole

figure of speech using deliberate, extreme exaggeration not meant to be taken serious

Emotion

Appealing to emotion
Sardonic, mocking- Criticism/Skepticism

optimism Compassionate Embrace Sanguine(good during bad situtaitions)