Geography
What the test asks
Geography items test physical, human, and regional geography and how they interact. Expect questions on map skills (latitude/longitude, scale, projections, thematic maps), physical systems (climate zones, plate tectonics, landforms, water cycles), human systems (population distribution, migration, urbanization, economic activity), and human-environment interaction.
Concepts to master
Understand why populations cluster where they do-coasts, river valleys, temperate climates-and how physical features shape trade, settlement, and conflict. Know climate controls (latitude, altitude, proximity to water, ocean currents) and basic map-reading: a large-scale map shows less area in more detail; a small-scale map shows more area in less detail. Be able to interpret population pyramids, demographic transition stages, and push-pull migration factors.
Traps
Projection distortion is a favorite: Mercator preserves shape/direction but exaggerates high-latitude area; equal-area projections preserve area but distort shape. Another trap confuses weather with climate, or asks about a region using a generalization that doesn't apply everywhere. Scale questions often reward careful reading of "large" versus "small."
Rule of thumb
For any "why there?" question, run through physical factors (climate, water, terrain) then human factors (economy, transport, policy) before choosing.
Worked example
"Why is much of Earth's population concentrated in coastal and riverine lowlands?" The best answer emphasizes accessible water, fertile soils, trade routes, and moderate climates-not a single cause like "people prefer beaches."