Introduction: Can You Really Get a 5 in Just 30 Days?
Yes—you can. Scoring a 5 on the AP Calculus AB exam in just one month is absolutely possible, but it requires discipline, structure, and targeted practice.
The AP Calculus AB exam covers limits, derivatives, integrals, applications, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. With only 30 days, you can’t afford to waste time on unfocused studying. Instead, you need a step-by-step daily crash plan designed to build mastery quickly.
This guide provides exactly that: a 30-day roadmap to a 5, powered by practice tools and explanations from RevisionDojo.
The Structure of the AP Calculus AB Exam
- Multiple Choice: 45 questions in 105 minutes (50% of score).
- Free Response: 6 questions in 90 minutes (50% of score).
Your plan must balance speed practice for multiple choice and concept mastery for FRQs.
The 30-Day Crash Study Plan
Week 1: Foundations (Limits, Derivatives Basics)
- Day 1: Review functions, graphs, continuity. Practice limits (algebraic, graphical).
- Day 2: Master derivative rules (power, product, quotient, chain).
- Day 3: Practice derivative applications (slopes, tangent lines).
- Day 4: Implicit differentiation + inverse functions.
- Day 5: Practice optimization + related rates.
- Day 6: Mixed multiple choice (limits + derivatives).
- Day 7: Mini timed quiz (RevisionDojo practice set).
Week 2: Integration and Applications
- Day 8: Antiderivatives + indefinite integrals.
- Day 9: Definite integrals + Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.
- Day 10: Area under curves + between curves.
- Day 11: Accumulation and net change problems.
- Day 12: Integration techniques (substitution, basic parts).
- Day 13: Mixed multiple choice (integrals).
- Day 14: Timed FRQ practice (integrals + applications).
Week 3: Advanced Applications & Mixed Practice
- Day 15: Differential equations (separation of variables, slope fields).
- Day 16: Motion problems (velocity, acceleration, displacement).
- Day 17: Curve sketching (critical points, concavity, inflection).
- Day 18: Optimization full practice.
- Day 19: Related rates full practice.
- Day 20: Mixed multiple choice (all AB topics so far).
- Day 21: Timed FRQ set (RevisionDojo full-length).
Week 4: Test Simulation & Refinement
- Day 22: Full-length multiple choice section (no calculator).
- Day 23: Full-length multiple choice section (calculator).
- Day 24: Analyze mistakes, review weak areas.
- Day 25: Timed FRQ section (6 questions).
- Day 26: Review scoring guidelines, learn how to justify answers.
- Day 27: Targeted drills on weak topics.
- Day 28: Another full-length AP-style exam (RevisionDojo).
- Day 29: Final review of formulas + quick strategies.
- Day 30: Light review, confidence boost, and rest.
Daily Study Structure (2–3 hours per day)
- 30 minutes: Review notes + watch concise explanation (RevisionDojo).
- 60–90 minutes: Practice problems.
- 30 minutes: Timed set (MC or FRQ).
- 15 minutes: Review mistakes and write corrections.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Cramming without practice: Calculus requires problem-solving, not passive reading.
- Ignoring calculator rules: Many students misuse calculators on the exam.
- Skipping justifications: FRQs award points for reasoning, not just answers.
- Not simulating real timing: Always practice under exam-like conditions.
Why RevisionDojo is the Best Crash Prep Tool
With only 30 days, you need focused practice. That’s where RevisionDojo stands out.
- Daily practice schedules tailored for AP Calculus.
- Timed AP-style exams to build endurance.
- Step-by-step explanations so you actually learn from mistakes.
- Weakness targeting tools so you can double down where you need help most.
If you want a 5 in 30 days, RevisionDojo is the most efficient way to get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I really jump from a 2 to a 5 in one month?
Yes—if you commit to the plan and practice daily with RevisionDojo.
Q2: How many hours should I study each day?
2–3 hours consistently is enough if you follow a structured plan.
Q3: Should I focus more on multiple choice or FRQs?
Both—multiple choice tests speed and breadth, while FRQs test depth and justification.
Q4: What formulas should I memorize?
Derivative and integral rules, trig identities, area/volume formulas, and FTC.
Q5: Where can I find the best crash practice exams?
RevisionDojo provides realistic AP-style practice exams designed for crash prep.
Conclusion: Your 30-Day Roadmap to a 5
Getting a 5 in AP Calculus AB in just one month isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy, discipline, and the right resources.
By following this 30-day plan and using RevisionDojo for structured practice and timed exams, you’ll be fully prepared to walk into the test with confidence.
If you’re serious about your score, commit to the plan today—and in 30 days, you’ll be ready to earn your 5 on AP Calculus AB.
