AP Physics Exam Tips: Ace Your Test & Get High Scores

In summary, for success on the AP Physics Tests and Exam, it is recommended to do assigned problem sets and work through additional problems until they can be completed without assistance. It is also important to think about the concepts and reasoning behind the problems. There are four different AP Physics exams, with Physics 1 covering mechanics and some basic waves, and Physics 2 covering thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, optics, and atomic and nuclear physics. Practice problems and information can be found on the College Board website, and it may also be helpful to consult with a teacher for access to additional practice material.
  • #1
master_333
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Do you have any tips for getting high marks on AP Physics Tests and getting a high score on the AP Physics Exam. For example, you may know material that can help you while doing the course.
 
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  • #2
master_333 said:
Do you have any tips for getting high marks on AP Physics Tests and getting a high score on the AP Physics Exam. For example, you may know material that can help you while doing the course.

Do the assigned problem sets. Do problems that aren't assigned. Work through the problems several times (spaced out over the course) until you can do them without having to look up information or hints. Think about what you're doing, and why you're doing it.
 
  • #3
If you're still following this thread . . .
Which AP Physics exam(s) are you taking? There are 4 different ones.
If you are looking for help with Physics 1 and Physics 2 (the non-calculus versions of AP Physics), I just posted some online resources in another thread:
Redbelly98 said:
Since the Physics 1 and 2 courses are just in their 2nd year, it is not clear if a book like Princeton Review will have practice problems that are well-matched to these new courses, or are still in the old "Physics B" mode that did not emphasize conceptual understanding so much. Many people found the Physics 1 and 2 exams to be more challenging than the Physics B exams, which are no longer given. You might consider just taking 1 exam this year, to improve your chances of passing at least one test.

Physics 1 covers:
mechanics, including rotational motion
electrostatics and simple circuits (resistors and batteries, but NOT capacitors)
"mechanical" waves: sound and waves on a string, but no light waves or optics

Physics 2 covers
thermodynamics
fluids
electricity and magnetism
more advanced circuits
optics
introductory quantum, atomic, and nuclear/particle physics

You can find practice problems online at the College Board website, who own the AP Physics courses and tests:

1. At this website: http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/apc/public/courses/descriptions/index.html
Find "AP Physics 1", and click on "Full Course Description"
Practice problems start on p. 155 for Physics 1, and p. 189 for Physics 2. Both multiple-choice and free-response questions are included.
The information and equations that will be provided on the exam are on pages 227-228 for Physics 1, and 229-231 for Physics 2
WARNING: do NOT worry about the stuff on pages 13-141. That is meant for teachers.
A list of topics is on page 142. Do NOT worry about the "Big Ideas" listed, that is more important for teachers.

2. Last year's free-response (but NOT multiple-choice) questions, and solutions, can be found here:
Physics 1 at http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/apc/members/exam/exam_information/225288.html
Physics 2 at http://apcentral.collegeboard.com/apc/members/exam/exam_information/225439.html

You seem to be doing this as a self-study. Does your school have an AP Physics teacher? He or she may have access to the practice exam that College Board only shares with teachers. You wouldn't be allowed to keep this exam or take it home, but the teacher might let you sit and try it out after school for practice.
 

1. What is the format of the AP Physics exam?

The AP Physics exam is a 3-hour exam that is divided into two sections: a multiple-choice section and a free-response section. The multiple-choice section contains 50 questions and makes up 50% of the total score, while the free-response section contains 5 questions and makes up the other 50% of the score.

2. How should I prepare for the AP Physics exam?

To prepare for the AP Physics exam, it is important to review all the material covered in the course, practice solving problems and equations, and familiarize yourself with the format and types of questions on the exam. It is also helpful to take practice exams and seek assistance from a teacher or tutor if needed.

3. What are some tips for answering multiple-choice questions on the AP Physics exam?

Some tips for answering multiple-choice questions on the AP Physics exam include reading each question carefully, eliminating obviously incorrect answers, and using the process of elimination to narrow down your choices. It is also helpful to show all work and use units in your calculations to avoid simple mistakes.

4. How should I approach the free-response section of the AP Physics exam?

The free-response section of the AP Physics exam requires you to show your work and explain your thought process in solving the problems. It is important to read each question carefully, draw diagrams if needed, and clearly label your answers. It is also helpful to practice writing concise and organized responses.

5. What are some common mistakes to avoid on the AP Physics exam?

Some common mistakes to avoid on the AP Physics exam include not studying all the material covered in the course, not showing all work and using units in calculations, and not reading questions carefully. It is also important to manage your time effectively and not spend too much time on one question at the expense of others.

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