What is the AP Macro exam like?

Like many other AP exams, the AP Macro test is divided into 2 sections: multiple choice & free response.

The Multiple Choice Section: (66% of exam score)

You will have 1 hour & 10 minutes to answer 60 questions. The questions will test you on all units, so it's important to brush up on anything you struggle with.

How to tackle the MC section

• Answer all the questions, as you're not penalized for wrong answers.
• Process of elimination will save your life.
• Write all over your booklet. You paid for it, and it'll help you stay organized with your thoughts.
• Tackle the easy questions first, then go back and do the tough ones.
• Circle your answer choice on the booklet, then bubble them in on the answer sheet after you've completed a page. This will avoid silly marking mistakes. Here is the overall material tested:

• From College Board:  https://secure-media.collegeboard.org/digitalServices/pdf/ap/ap-economics-course-description.pdf

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The Free Response Questions: (33% of exam score)

Oh you know, just me casually remembering what I sat through on May 15, 2019.

You'll have an 1 hour to complete 3 questions: one long question & two short ones. On this section you will have to draw graphs, preform minimal calculations, & examine situations to explain outcomes.

How to tackle the FRQs

Know all the different graphs and how they relate to each other: it's all just cause & effect. Here are all the graphs my interweb friends:

• Production Possibilities Curve
• Supply and Demand
• Loanable Funds Market
• Money Market
• Foreign Exchange Market
• Aggregate Supply and Demand
• Phillips Curve
• Show your work: Starting in 2020, you will be required to show your work on the FRQs.
• 2 different colored pens (black & blue) will make your work more organized & understandable
• LABEL EVERYTHING. I cannot stress this enough. Label every curve, graph, axis, & shift. Make me proud child.

Source: ReviewEcon.com

• When a questions says explain, use nice, concise sentences. Don't just include a graph or a one word answer. Lots of students lose points here.

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What to Bring on Your Test Date

• photo ID
• preferably 2 No. 2 pencils
• sharpener
• eraser
• black or blue inked pens- no pencil allowed on the FRQ portion
• tissues(for tears of joy of course) Calculators are NOT allowed.

It's a good idea to bring water & a snack, but these are not allowed in the testing room. Save them for the break period.

Alright then, go on and make me proud. Score a 5!

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Closing out AP Macro

AP Macro is a complex subject, so make sure to check out formula sheet for AP Macro and this blog about 5 Steps to gain Success for AP Macro for any additional help you might need.

You got this! 🎉

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