Students planning ahead for AP success need to know not only what's tested on the exams but also how the tests are structured.
Here's an overview of the AP Biology exam.
What's on the AP Biology test?
The AP Biology exam is designed to measure your mastery of the fundamental concepts and scientific principles that govern biological systems and living organisms. Furthermore, the exam tests your ability to utilize the scientific method and analyze data.
The course involves 8 major units of study:
- Chemistry of Life
- Cell Structure and Function
- Cellular Energetics
- Cell Communication and Cell Cycle
- Heredity
- Gene Expression and Regulation
- Natural Selection
- Ecology
Need help mastering the content? Consider scheduling a few sessions with a tutor, who can work with you one-on-one to reinforce the material you're learning in school. To get started with an expert AP tutor, reach out to us here.
How is the AP Biology test structured?
The AP Biology exam is a two-part test consisting of a multiple-choice section followed by a free-response section. A graphing, scientific, or four-function calculator is permitted on all parts of the exam.
Because the AP Biology exam is a timed test, you will have to carefully pace yourself. This includes making determinations about whether you should skip and guess on any questions. In order to achieve the best possible score, you need to answer as many questions correctly as possible.
As you prepare for test day, you may come up with a personalized pacing plan, but as a starting point, here are rough guidelines based on the timing of each section:
- Multiple choice:
- 90 minutes to answer 60 questions
- 1.5 minutes per question
- Free response:
- 90 minutes to answer 6 questions
- 2 long-response questions: aim for 22 minutes per question
- 4 short-response questions: aim for 11.5 minutes per question
- 90 minutes to answer 6 questions
Need more individualized advice?
The recommendations above are general suggestions. If you have specific questions, reach out to our experts here. We’re happy to help in any way we can.
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