If you’re aiming for the top score on the AP Biology Exam, the right resources can make all the difference. With so many books, videos, and practice tools out there, it’s easy to waste time on low-quality material.
In this guide, RevisionDojo has compiled the most effective AP Biology study resources—the ones proven to help students earn a 5. Whether you’re starting months in advance or need a quick crash course, you’ll find what works for you here.
How to Choose AP Biology Study Resources
When picking resources, prioritize those that:
- Align with the College Board’s Course and Exam Description (CED)
- Cover both content knowledge and science practices
- Include practice questions modeled after real exam items
- Offer clear explanations, not just answer keys
- Fit your learning style (visual, auditory, interactive)
1. Official College Board Materials
The College Board provides free, high-quality resources you should use first:
- AP Biology Course and Exam Description (CED) – The official guide to what’s tested
- Past FRQs with Scoring Guidelines – Practice writing under timed conditions
- AP Classroom – Topic questions, progress checks, and personal progress dashboards
Why it’s great: Direct from the exam creators, so you know it’s accurate.
2. Best AP Biology Review Books
Top Picks for 2025:
- Campbell Biology: AP Edition – The gold standard for in-depth understanding
- Princeton Review’s Cracking the AP Biology Exam – Great for concise review and strategies
- Barron’s AP Biology – Best for practice questions and test simulations
Tip: Use review books for structured content review, then supplement with online practice.
3. Online Study Platforms
RevisionDojo AP Biology Hub
- Full unit breakdowns for Units 1–8
- FRQ practice with model answers
- AP Bio Score Calculator to track progress
Bozeman Science
- Clear, concise video explanations of core concepts
Khan Academy AP Biology
- Free, detailed lessons with interactive quizzes
Quizlet AP Biology Sets
- Flashcards for quick vocabulary review
4. YouTube Channels Worth Following
- Amoeba Sisters – Fun, visual explanations for complex topics
- CrashCourse Biology – High-energy, fast-paced topic overviews
- RevisionDojo YouTube Playlist – Structured exam review series with tips for scoring high
Pro Tip: Watch videos at 1.25x speed for efficiency, but pause to take notes.
5. Practice Test Sources
- College Board Released Exams – The most accurate practice
- Albert.io AP Biology Practice – Great for application-based questions
- RevisionDojo Practice Portal – Timed MCQ and FRQ sections with instant scoring
Why practice tests matter: They help you get used to pacing and the question formats.
6. Lab Investigation Resources
AP Biology requires familiarity with 13 core labs. For each, know:
- The purpose
- The procedure
- Expected results
- Variables and controls
Best lab prep sources:
- College Board AP Biology Lab Manual
- Flinn Scientific AP Biology Lab Kits
- RevisionDojo Lab Investigation Guides
7. Study Apps for AP Biology
- Anki – For spaced repetition flashcards
- Notion – To organize notes, diagrams, and study schedules
- Quizlet – Quick review anywhere
Building Your AP Biology Study Plan
3+ Months Before Exam
- Read through all units in review books
- Watch videos for difficult topics
- Start AP Classroom progress checks
1 Month Before Exam
- Begin full practice tests weekly
- Focus on weak areas identified in score calculator results
1 Week Before Exam
- Targeted FRQ practice daily
- Memorize essential formulas and vocabulary
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need multiple AP Biology review books?
No—one good review book plus online resources is enough.
2. Is watching videos enough for AP Biology?
Not alone—you need practice questions and FRQ writing.
3. How important are labs for the exam?
Very—lab-related questions appear in both MCQs and FRQs.
4. Should I pay for AP Biology courses?
Free resources are enough for most students, but paid courses can help if you need structured guidance.
Call to Action
The right AP Biology study resources can turn a 3 into a 5.
👉 Explore the RevisionDojo AP Biology Hub for full unit reviews, FRQ practice, and our exclusive AP Bio Score Calculator. Start preparing smarter—your 5 is within reach.
