This document provides an overview of speciation for an AP Biology class. It defines species and discusses the mechanisms that cause reproductive isolation and lead to the formation of new species. These include pre-zygotic barriers like geographic, ecological, temporal, behavioral, and gametic isolation as well as post-zygotic barriers that reduce hybrid viability or fertility. Modes of speciation like allopatric, sympatric, and parapatric speciation are also covered, as well as the debate around whether speciation occurs gradually or rapidly through punctuated equilibrium. Examples are given for each type of reproductive isolating mechanism and mode of speciation.