AP GOPO FRQs – The Best Advice
For motivation, see the average scores on recent FRQ exams.
When you answer the prompt -1. Circle or underline the key terms.
2. Calculate the point total for the question by counting the verbs.
3. Concentrate on the question. AP = Answer Prompt!
4. Label each part. (a) . . . (b) . . .
5. Do NOT write an intro, thesis, or conclusion!
6. Restate the question your answer.
7. Write in complete thoughts and sentences!
8. DEFINE EACH TERM IN THE PROMPT!
9. Make sure that you thoroughly DESCRIBE and EXPLAIN. Use examples for every EXPLAIN
question. I would do the same for DESCRIBE ones, too.
10. Use the "spare tire" method, if they ask you to do two or three of something, provide
one extra for safety.
11. Provide more information than you think you need, but do NOT spend more than 20-25
minutes on a question.
12. Do not cross out information that you may think is wrong unless it causes you to
contradict yourself. We do not take off for incorrect information. Sometimes, students
cross out correct answers.
13. Do not freak out with a particular question! Think through the policymaking system
and matrices. You can miss approximately 27 total points and still make a 5!
14. Make sure you attempt every part of every question. I see some papers without a part.
You might as well try. Many times you will pick up some points.
Other tips -If you need to add more to a question you already answered, just go back to it and let the
reader know that you continued the answer on another page. It is best to keep it together,
but don't let that stop you from writing an addendum. It is also a good idea to leave some
room or a page after you 'think' you have completed your answer.
Limit yourself to no more than 25 minutes a question. I am POSITIVE you will have time to go
back, but still pace yourself.
Oh yes -ANSWER THE PROMPT! DEFINE ALL TERMS! TAKE NOTHING FOR GRANTED! REREAD
QUESTION! EXPLAIN EVERYTHING! ANSWER THE PROMPT!