For many students, the most challenging section of an Advanced Placement exam is the free-response portion. No matter the subject, the free-response section can lead to intense worry. After all, its few questions are worth quite a bit of each exam’s overall score, and its form may range from a complicated word problem to a long essay or a visual display of data.
If you are concerned about your performance on this portion of the AP test, here are five steps to follow. Master them, and you will be well on your way to success and to earning college credit.
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1. Read each question carefully: Free-response questions, which require you to compose an answer rather than select one from among several choices, use very specific wording. As you read them, pay close attention to the language. Ensure you understand exactly what is being asked of you.
For example, an AP Biology question that asks you to explain a single concept will require a different response than one that asks you to compare and contrast two biological processes. These slight differences may seem minor, but they can result in point deductions when ignored.
2. Maximize multiple-part questions: Free-response questions often involve multiple parts, and when they do, it is important to note that these parts are graded separately. In an ideal world, you would be able to answer all parts of a problem, but this is not always the case.
If you find yourself struggling with a question, the most important thing you can do is to maximize your points. For instance, on some exams, especially on the math and science tests, you may be able to answer parts C and D without solving part A and part B first.
If this is so, write down your answers for parts C and D. If you need a value from part A or part B to solve part C or D, enter any number and proceed with your calculations. The College Board will award you points for knowledge of the process even if you do not arrive at the correct answer.
These situations are less likely to arise on English and history tests, but when they do, the general principle is the same. Provide an answer where you can, and focus on those parts that will allow you to maximize the available points.
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3. Share your thought process: On math and science exams, this means showing your work, as a correct answer without the corresponding correct process will not receive full credit. On essay-based free-response questions, as in the case of English and history tests, provide supporting evidence that shows how you came to your conclusion.
Remember that the College Board wishes to see how you think and how you came to the answer or conclusion you provided, not just the answer or conclusion itself.
4. Use proper penmanship: This may seem like an obvious point, but on an exam where you so often feel short on time, it can be easily forgotten. No matter how brilliant your thoughts or how cogent your analysis, the College Board cannot give you credit for an answer that they cannot read.
Especially if your handwriting is naturally messy, make every effort — including writing slowly, if necessary — to write legibly for the sake of your grader and your score.
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5. Be clear: AP graders have many tests to grade, and they may not have the time to parse rambling answers, no matter how intelligent the thoughts contained within them may be. Clearly organize your responses.
Organize your evidence and articulate how it supports the points that you are trying to make. Define any subject-specific terms that you use so that you will not cause your grader any confusion. In all areas, emphasize clarity and directness.
AP exams are a wonderful way to demonstrate your readiness for college course work, and the free-response section is the perfect place to show your willingness and ability to handle rigorous academic assignments. With these tips in hand, you will be better equipped for success on any AP test, and with AP success comes the chance to earn college credit and to strengthen your case for admission to your dream school.
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5 Steps to Mastering AP Free-Response Questions originally appeared on usnews.com
