3 min read•june 18, 2024
Catherine Liu
Catherine Liu
For many students in AP Calculus, the multiple-choice section is easier than the free-response section. You'll be asked more straightforward skills-based questions, problems typically don't build off of each other, and you have the power to guess. Still, doing well on the multiple-choice requires good test-taking strategies and lots of practice. Here are our tips and tricks to help you do your best in May!
➕Check out this in-depth multiple choice study guide for more info.
Understanding the format of the exam is key to dividing your studying and pacing yourself when doing practice questions.
The multiple-choice section makes up 50% of your score, and you have an hour and 45 minutes to answer 45 questions. This section has 2 parts:
Unit | Exam Weighting (AB) | Exam Weighting (BC) |
Unit 1: | 10-12% | 4-7% |
Unit 2: : Definition and Fundamental Properties | 10-12% | 4-7% |
Unit 3: Differentiation: Composite, Implicit, and | 9-13% | 4-7% |
Unit 4: | 10-15% | 6-9% |
Unit 5: Analytical Applications of Differentiation | 15-18% | 8-11% |
Unit 6: Integration and Accumulation of Change | 17-20% | 17-20% |
Unit 7: | 6-12% | 6-9% |
Unit 8: | 10-15% | 6-9% |
Unit 9: , , and (BC only) | 11-12% | |
Unit 10: (BC only) | 17-18% |
For free AP multiple choice practice, try:
These full-length AP Calculus AB and AP Calculus BC exams
These sample questions from the College Board
Varsity Tutors' AP Calculus AB and AP Calculus BC diagnostic tests For free skill practice, try:
Fiveable's streams and study guides
Khan Academy's AP Calculus AB and AP Calculus BC courses If you want more AP-style multiple choice practice, consider buying a prep book. They usually sell for under $20 and have upwards of 3 full-length practice tests. Check out this list of the best prep books [coming soon] for Fiveable's top picks!
If you know the format, use these strategies, and practice until you're confident, you'll rock the multiple choice section of the exam. Good luck! 🎉