American or English Literature?

[Weldy]

Trying to decide which one to take, is one generally easier to tackle?

[alissaroot]

I thought American Lit was easier to study for because there were less authors and works to cover, but that the exam went more in depth on the questions. The English Lit exam covers many more authors and works, but the questions were much more general. I got a 66 on American Lit, and a 74 on the English Lit. I studied 2-3 weeks for Amer. Lit., and 3-4 weeks for English Lit. The Norton Anthologies were most helpful for my studying.

Hope that helps!

[frankiebleyes]

I just took the American Literature exam and thought I was well prepared for it, but only got 59. Don't know about other exam. Good luck with whichever you decide upon.

[rileychica]

I thought American Lit was easier to study for because there were less authors and works to cover, but that the exam went more in depth on the questions. The English Lit exam covers many more authors and works, but the questions were much more general.

This was the case for me as well. I enjoyed studying the American Lit material, and I was much more confident going in for that exam. (But I didn't give myself enough time to prepare for either exam; only 10 days)

[studyingathome]

Weldy,
I've only taken English Literature, but I think it's supposed to be easier for the reason previously stated--the questions are a bit more general. You could try taking the American Lit and English Lit practice tests out of the College Board exam book and see which you do better on. About half the test is analyzing so if you're good at that you have a head start! I wrote a more detailed post on what came up on my test if you'd like to see some of what is covered, and there are other detailed posts as well.
http://www.degreeforum.net/general-educa...-clep.html

~Allison

[pmc2009]

I found the English Lit exam easier (failed Am Lit). The American Lit exam was tricky because they threw in a lot of British authors in the answers. I ended up choosing a lot of the British authors as answers because the names sounded familiar :p. Then when I was studying for Eng Lit I realized my mistake. Now, the english lit exam covers all literature in english - not just British authors, but I still found it easier.