What is the AP Macro exam like?

2 min readdecember 14, 2021


AP Macroeconomics 💶

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

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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.
https://firebasestorage.googleapis.com/v0/b/fiveable-92889.appspot.com/o/images%2F-xDDJ5Mtqsww2.jpg?alt=media&token=acbf5e5f-6ad7-4e94-9933-c2a8d2c4712b

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.

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!

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! 🎉

Browse Study Guides By Unit
💸Unit 1 – Basic Economic Concepts
📈Unit 2 – Economic Indicators & the Business Cycle
💲Unit 3 – National Income & Price Determination
💰Unit 4 – Financial Sector
⚖️Unit 5 – Long-Run Consequences of Stabilization Policies
🏗Unit 6 – Open Economy - International Trade & Finance
📝Exam Skills: MCQ/FRQ

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