Some Tips for the M-C Section of the AP Psych Exam

1. There is a GUESSING PENALTY (similar to the SAT exam). If you have no clue on a
question, leave it blank. If you can use PROCESS OF ELIMINATION (POE) to eliminate
even one answer, take a chance on that question.
2. It’s OK to leave a few blank; there will be some questions on info. That was not covered
in class. This is typical. (I can’t cover it ALL!)
3. If you’re struggling with an answer, go with your first instinct. Remember that
Psychology is mostly common sense so your first guess will probably be the best one.
4. It is usually safe to eliminate terms among your choices that you don’t recognize. These
terms are often listed as choices to give you a total of 5 to choose from.
5. Some AP questions are wordy and long. Take your time and reason out what they want.
Don’t panic and assume that you don’t know the answer until you’ve given yourself a
chance.
6. Some of the terminology may be more clinical than the wording we’ve used in class or
that is in the textbook. (Reticular formation may be reticular activating system).
7. This one may seem silly, but I think this can happen: BE SURE your answer key lines up
with your test. Every year, there are reports of scores that have been a total surprise to
the teachers (on the low end). One has to wonder if there is a logistical problem such as
this.
8. Remember that you don’t have to answer a high percentage of these questions to pass
the AP Exam. Depending on the difficulty level of the test and how you do on the free
response section, it may be possible to pass the exam with as few as 50-55% correct.

TOP TEN PRACTICAL TIPS FOR WRITING AN AP PSYCH ESSAY

 Read the essay two times, and read it slowly and carefully
 What specifically is the essay asking for in the question
 Determine how many points the essay is worth (most are worth about 10 points)
 Picture visually what the rubric is for the grader.
 Write a brief outline on your essay booklet to this rubric.
 Write a thorough but concise essay
 Keep an eye on the clock (Wear a watch if you don’t normally)
 Write in a technical (rather than creative) style to address each point
 Assume the grader is STUPID (explain each term or concept)
 Write neatly and in pen (not pencil)