If you want to excel in AP Biology, your preparation starts before the school year begins. Summer is the perfect time to lay the foundation for success, and at RevisionDojo, we know exactly what strategies will make your transition into AP Bio smooth and confidence-building.
Why Summer Prep Matters for AP Biology
- Reduces stress in the first semester – You’ll already know the basics.
- Boosts your confidence – You’ll feel prepared for fast-paced lessons.
- Gives you more time for practice – Especially on FRQs and lab work.
- Helps you spot weak areas early – And fix them before the real tests.
Step 1 – Get Familiar with the AP Biology Course Framework
Visit the College Board AP Biology Course and Exam Description (CED) and review:
- The 8 Units and their weighting
- Science practices tested (data analysis, experimental design)
- Example FRQs and scoring guidelines
Knowing the structure will help you plan your summer study around what matters most.
Step 2 – Learn the Vocabulary Before Class Starts
AP Bio has hundreds of terms. Memorizing them during the school year can slow you down. Over summer:
- Use Quizlet decks made for AP Biology
- Make your own flashcards to reinforce memory
- Group terms by topic (e.g., genetics, cell processes, ecology)
Step 3 – Pre-Read Key Units
Focus on units that often trip students up:
- Cell Structure & Function – Understand organelles and their roles
- Cell Communication – How cells send and receive signals
- Photosynthesis & Cellular Respiration – Core biochemical processes
- Gene Expression & Regulation – The foundation for genetics
Read from your textbook or free online resources like Bozeman Science and Khan Academy.
Step 4 – Review Math & Graphing Skills
AP Biology requires math—even if it’s not a math class. Practice:
- Chi-square tests
- Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium
- Interpreting line and bar graphs
- Calculating standard deviation and error bars
These are free points if you master them early.
Step 5 – Do Practice FRQs Before School Starts
Summer FRQ practice:
- Teaches you exam-style writing
- Improves your timing under pressure
- Shows you what College Board expects for full credit
You can find all past AP Bio FRQs on the College Board website along with scoring rubrics.
Step 6 – Strengthen Your Lab Skills
You may not have access to lab equipment in summer, but you can:
- Watch AP Biology lab walkthroughs on YouTube
- Learn pipetting techniques and microscope use (virtual demos work)
- Review lab safety rules and experiment setup
Step 7 – Plan Your Study Schedule
Summer prep doesn’t need to be all-day studying. We recommend:
- 30–45 minutes a day for 4–5 days a week
- A mix of reading, vocabulary, and practice questions
- Weekly review of what you learned to keep it fresh
Step 8 – Join an Online AP Bio Study Community
Being part of a group helps keep you accountable. Options:
- RevisionDojo forums (student-led discussions, resource sharing)
- AP Biology Reddit community
- Discord study servers for science students
Common Mistakes in AP Biology Summer Prep
- Trying to learn everything – Focus on the hardest, most tested topics first.
- Skipping FRQ practice – It’s worth 50% of your AP Bio score.
- Not revisiting material – One read isn’t enough; use spaced repetition.
RevisionDojo’s Final Advice
Your AP Biology journey starts before you walk into the classroom. A strong summer prep plan will help you master concepts faster, reduce stress, and set you up for a higher AP score.
