The AP Pre-Calculus exam is a three-hour and 15-minute exam that is divided into two sections:
-
Section I: Multiple Choice (90 minutes)
- 45 multiple-choice questions
- Worth 50% of total score
- Covers all topics on the AP Pre-Calculus curriculum
-
Section II: Free Response (105 minutes)
- 6 free-response questions
- Worth 50% of total score
- Covers a range of topics on the AP Pre-Calculus curriculum, including:
- Limits and continuity
- Derivatives
- Integrals
- Applications of derivatives and integrals
- Parametric equations
- Polar coordinates
- Sequences and series
Topics Covered on the AP Pre-Calculus Exam
The AP Pre-Calculus exam covers a wide range of topics, including:
-
Functions:
- Polynomial functions
- Rational functions
- Exponential and logarithmic functions
- Trigonometric functions
-
Limits and Continuity:
- Limits of functions
- Continuity of functions
-
Derivatives:
- Definition of a derivative
- Derivatives of polynomial functions
- Derivatives of rational functions
- Derivatives of exponential and logarithmic functions
- Derivatives of trigonometric functions
-
Integrals:
- Definition of an integral
- Integrals of polynomial functions
- Integrals of rational functions
- Integrals of exponential and logarithmic functions
- Integrals of trigonometric functions
-
Applications of Derivatives and Integrals:
- Applications of derivatives to optimization problems
- Applications of derivatives to related rates problems
- Applications of integrals to area and volume problems
-
Parametric Equations:
- Definition of parametric equations
- Graphing parametric equations
-
Polar Coordinates:
- Definition of polar coordinates
- Graphing polar curves
-
Sequences and Series:
- Definition of a sequence
- Definition of a series
- Convergence and divergence of sequences and series
Scoring the AP Pre-Calculus Exam
The AP Pre-Calculus exam is scored on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest possible score. The table below shows the score ranges for each section of the exam:
| Section | Score Range |
|---|---|
| Multiple Choice | 0-45 |
| Free Response | 0-55 |
The total score for the exam is the sum of the scores for the multiple choice and free response sections.
Preparing for the AP Pre-Calculus Exam
The best way to prepare for the AP Pre-Calculus exam is to take a course in pre-calculus. This course will cover all of the topics that are tested on the exam, and it will give you the opportunity to practice solving problems.
In addition to taking a course, you can also study for the exam by using practice materials. These materials can be found online and in bookstores.
Here are some tips for preparing for the AP Pre-Calculus exam:
- Start studying early. The sooner you start studying, the more time you will have to master the material.
- Be consistent with your studying. Studying for a few hours each week is more effective than cramming at the last minute.
- Take practice exams. Practice exams are a great way to get a feel for the format of the exam and to identify areas where you need to improve.
- Get help when you need it. If you are struggling with a particular topic, don’t be afraid to ask for help from your teacher, a tutor, or a classmate.
On Exam Day
On exam day, it is important to arrive at the testing center on time and to be well-prepared. Here are some tips for success on exam day:
- Get a good night’s sleep before the exam. This will help you to be alert and focused on the day of the exam.
- Eat a healthy breakfast on the day of the exam. This will give you the energy you need to perform your best.
- Bring all of the materials you need to the exam. This includes your pencils, pens, calculator, and ruler.
- Be confident. You have prepared for this exam, and you are ready to succeed.
Conclusion
The AP Pre-Calculus exam is a challenging exam, but it is also an important one. A good score on the AP Pre-Calculus exam can help you to earn college credit, and it can also give you a head start in your college math courses.
If you are planning to take the AP Pre-Calculus exam, be sure to start studying early and to take advantage of all of the resources that are available to you. With hard work and dedication, you can achieve success on the AP Pre-Calculus exam.
