AP Psychology Basics
AP Psychology. Source: College Board, 2023.
The College Board Advanced Placement (AP) Psychology exam is a year-long college-level test designed for 11th or 12th grade high school students. The AP Psychology subject material covers a wide range of topics related to human behavior and mental processes. Therefore, AP Psychology is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in key concepts, scientific theories and psychological perspectives. This article will explain the required basics before students begin their AP Psychology training.
The Exam
The AP Psychology exam consists of two (2) sections: Section 1 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and Section 2 free-response questions (FRQs).
The following table details the AP Psychology exam. Created by Presidio Education®, 2023.
| AP Psychology Exam Format Breakdown | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sections | Question Types | Questions | Exam Weight | Time |
| 1 | Multiple-Choice | 100 | 66.7% | 70 minutes |
| 2 | Free-Response | 2 | 33.3% | 50 minutes |
| Total | 102 | 100% | 2 hours | |
Section 1 is 70 minutes and contains 100 MCQs. The questions may ask students to identify the best definition of a psychological concept, apply a psychological principle to a specific scenario, analyze data, or evaluate research studies. The MCQs challenge students on their ability to recall key terms and concepts, and how to apply their knowledge to specific scenarios. Furthermore, students must remember that this Section 1 is worth 66.7% of the final AP Psychology exam score.
Section 2 is 50 minutes and contains two (2) FRQ essays. The first essay is based on a case study. Students are asked to analyze and apply psychological concepts and theories to a given situation. The second essay is a research-based question. Students are asked to design, interpret and evaluate a research study. This question will also require students to evaluate quantitative data. Students must learn to write full-length essays that address all parts of the question. Organization and structure are crucial to demonstrate a clear understanding of the content.
AP Psychology free-response question (FRQ) essay example. Source: College Board AP Psychology Exam 2022 Set #1 Section 2 Question #1 Part A.
The Content
AP Psychology introduces eight (8) psychological perspectives, which are the foundations of the subject material. Psychological researchers study the mind from various perspectives. These perspectives offer unique theoretical approaches to explaining various aspects of human behavior. By understanding these perspectives, students can gain a comprehensive understanding of the many factors that shape human behavior. Additionally, there is a vast bank of key AP Psychology terminology and concepts that students must learn. Understanding the specific definitions and meanings of these key terms will be vital for the Section 1 multiple-choice questions (MCQs).
Brain Structures and their Functions. Source: Myers’ Psychology for AP 3rd Edition, David G. Myers; Worth, 2020.
The Scientific Methods
Understanding the psychological perspectives and key terminology is not enough for students to earn a perfect AP 5 on the AP Psychology exam. The curriculum also focuses on how researchers gather data, test hypotheses and evaluate data. Students must understand these various scientific methods and how they are applied to the field of psychology. Furthermore, students are tested on their ability to analyze and interpret quantitative data. Consequently, there are some aspects of the AP Psychology exam that overlap with AP Statistics.
AP Psychology free-response question (FRQ) essay example. Source: College Board AP Psychology Exam 2022 Set #1 Section 2 Question #1 Part B.
Need Help with AP Psychology?
Our Presidio Education® faculty can provide one-on-one training for AP Psychology and other AP subjects. Please contact our Presidio Education® team or complete our Private Class Registration Form for further information. Best of luck AP students!
