Can anyone provide insight into how AP exams are structured? I'm trying to set up a study plan and I need to know if I should be focusing more on multiple-choice strategies or if I have to buckle down on essay writing.
The structure of AP exams typically includes both multiple-choice and free-response sections. The multiple-choice questions assess your understanding and ability to apply concepts, while the free-response sections, which can include essays, document-based questions, or problem-solving, evaluate your ability to articulate your thoughts and apply knowledge in a coherent manner. The balance between these two components varies by subject. For example, humanities exams like AP English Language have a significant focus on essay writing, while AP Calculus leans more heavily on problem-solving. To effectively plan your studies, I'd recommend reviewing the course description for each AP subject you're taking, which gives a clear breakdown of the exam format and can be found on the College Board website. This way, you can tailor your preparation to the specific demands of each exam.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.