Navigating the AP Statistics Exam
Essential information to help you pass the AP Statistics Exam: with information about the AP Statistics Exam format, skills tested, and more.
Section | Duration | Score Weighting | Structure
| Section | Duration | Score Weighting | Structure |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQ) | 90 minutes | 50% | 40 individual questions or sets of questions based on a shared prompt |
| Free-Response Questions (FRQ) | 90 minutes | 50% | Part A: 60 minutes
Part B: Investigative Task – Assesses multiple skill/content areas – Requires the application of skills/content in new contexts or non-routine way |
Scoring in the FRQ Section
| Score | Description |
|---|---|
| 4 | Complete Response: Shows complete understanding of the problem’s statistical components |
| 3 | Substantial Response: May include arithmetic errors, but answers are still reasonable and show substantial understanding of the problem’s statistical components |
| 2 | Developing Response: May include errors that result in some unreasonable answers, but shows some understanding of the problem’s statistical components |
| 1 | Minimal Response: Misuses or fails to use appropriate statistical techniques and shows only a limited understanding of statistical components by failing to identify important components |
| 0 | No Response: Shows little or no understanding of statistical components |
Exam Essentials
- Calculate: Perform mathematical steps to arrive at a final answer (e.g., algebraic expressions or diagrams with properly substituted numbers and correct labeling). Calculate tasks are also phrased with “Find” or interrogatory questions such as “How many?”, “What is?”, “What values?”, “How likely?”, or “How often?”
- Compare: Identify similarities and differences between two or more items, concepts, or ideas.
- Construct: Create a statistical model, diagram, or other representation to describe a situation or explain a concept.
- Interpret: Explain the meaning of a statistical result or conclusion in the context of the problem.
- Use Appropriate Tools: Select and use appropriate statistical tools and techniques to solve problems.
Exam Tips
- Time Management: Mastering time management during the exam is crucial. Allocate time to each section and question carefully.
- Read Carefully: Read each question carefully, underlining key terms to help organize your thoughts and signal to your brain that you’ve got this under control.
- Deep Breathing: As you enter the exam room, find your zen zone. Take a few deep breaths — in through the nose, out through the mouth. This calms your nervous system, reducing anxiety.
- Study Plan: Create a study plan that allocates time to each subject, with an emphasis on the AP Statistics Exam.
- Calculator: Bring the right calculator, but also pack a few other essentials like a lucky charm if it brings you comfort.
Conclusion
By following these tips and guidelines, you can effectively navigate the AP Statistics Exam and achieve your desired score.
