When it comes to preparing for the AP Biology exam, having organized, accurate, and exam-focused notes can save you hours of study time. But not all study guides are created equal. At RevisionDojo, we’ve reviewed dozens of online resources and compiled this definitive list of the best AP Biology notes and study guides so you can focus on learning — not searching.
Why Good Notes Matter for AP Biology
- Condense big topics into digestible formats
- Highlight exam-relevant details without overwhelming you
- Help with last-minute review in the days before the test
- Provide diagrams and visuals that make complex processes easier to understand
How We Chose These Resources
We looked for AP Biology notes that were:
- Accurate – Based on the current AP Biology Course and Exam Description (CED) from College Board
- Comprehensive – Cover all 8 AP Bio units
- Visually clear – Good use of charts, diagrams, and tables
- Accessible – Free or affordable
- Proven – Used successfully by past high-scoring students
1. College Board’s AP Biology Course and Exam Description (CED)
If you want the most official guide, start here.
- Contains all learning objectives
- Outlines the exact skills tested
- Provides sample exam questions
- Free PDF download from the College Board website
Best for: Knowing exactly what will (and won’t) be tested
- Strong MCQ and FRQ strategy sections
- Costs ~$20–$25
Best for: Students who prefer a structured, guided study plan
2. RevisionDojo AP Biology Resources
At RevisionDojo, we offer:
- Condensed AP Bio unit summaries
- Printable formula sheets
- FRQ scoring guides with sample high-scoring responses
- Custom study schedules
Best for: Students who want a single, organized hub for all AP Biology prep materials
How to Use Study Guides Effectively
- Don’t just read — test yourself on each unit
- Highlight terms and create your own flashcards
- Mix note review with practice questions for better retention
- Time your review to cover all units at least twice before the exam
Common Mistakes with AP Biology Notes
- Over-relying on one source – Combine at least two guides for accuracy
- Not aligning with the current CED – Some older resources may be outdated
- Skipping diagrams – Many FRQs require data interpretation skills
RevisionDojo’s Final Tip
The best AP Biology notes are the ones you actually use — consistently. Whether you prefer detailed textbooks, bullet-point summaries, or interactive videos, choose a combination that fits your learning style and stick to it.
