Tuesday, July 7, 2020

How Difficult is the AP Calculus AB Exam

So youre considering taking the AP Calculus AB Exam? Good for you! You may already know that its a very challenging test, but how hard is it really? If youve studied and prepared enough, then the answer is: pretty hard, but not impossible. In this short article, well talk about what makes the AP Calculus AB exam difficult. What Makes the AP Calculus AB Exam Difficult? First of all, the AP Calculus AB Exam is a standardized test. That alone makes it unlike most every test you have seen up to this point in school! Standardized means that every student in the United States who takes the test must take exactly the same test under precisely the same conditions. This is why you must register for the test far in advance and take it at a pre-approved testing center on a specific date. These must be the standardized students. Format of the AP Calculus AB Exam The test itself takes about 3 hours, but there is typically a break in between sections. There will be 45 multiple choice problems and six free response questions. The multiple choice format is similar to that of an SAT or ACT (except that the questions are all about calculus). Free response problems are broken down into multiple parts. In addition, you must show every step of your work for full credit. For more information about the format of the test, check out: What is the Format of the AP Calculus AB Test? Whats on the Test? The thing that really makes the AP Calculus AB exam difficult is the content. As the name implies, this test is all about calculus! There are three Big Ideas from calculus on the AB test. Functions and Limits Differential Calculus (derivatives and their applications) Integral Calculus (integrals and their applications) A more detailed list of topics can be found here: What Topics are on the AP Calculus AB Exam?. A graph illustrating a tangent line and secant line, important concepts in differential calculus. How Can I Prepare for the Exam? Of course, if you are planning to take this test, then you probably know a thing or two about calculus. Presumably youve been sitting in an AP Calculus course this year, soaking up all thse limits, derivatives, and integrals like a sponge! Can you learn calculus in your sleep? Furthermore, there are many helpful resources out there to help you prepare for the test. Make sure you pick up a good study guide with plenty of practice exams. The more practice, the better! Conclusion Its important to know what youre getting yourself into. So read up on What to Expect on the AP Calculus AB Test. You might also find this AP Calculus AB Cram Sheet helpful. Good luck on the exam!

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