The multiple-choice section of the AP Calculus AB & BC exams makes up 50% of your total score — meaning a solid strategy here can make the difference between a 4 and a 5. While content knowledge is key, test-taking tactics can dramatically boost your performance.
In this RevisionDojo guide, we’ll cover:
- The structure of the AP Calculus multiple-choice section
- Time management and pacing strategies
- Elimination techniques to narrow answer choices
- Calculator and non-calculator section tips
📚 Structure of the Multiple-Choice Section
The AP Calculus MCQ section is split into two parts:
- Part A (Non-Calculator):
- 30 questions in 60 minutes
- Focused on algebraic manipulation, limits, derivatives, and integrals without computational aids
- Part B (Calculator-Allowed):
- 15 questions in 45 minutes
- Often involves data from tables, graphs, and applied models
⏳ Time Management Tips
- Target pace:
- Part A: 2 minutes per question
- Part B: 3 minutes per question (calculator use)
- Flag time-draining problems for later — never get stuck for more than 3 minutes
- Aim to finish with at least 5 minutes left for review
🔍 Elimination Strategies
When you’re unsure:
- Check units and signs — eliminate answers with impossible values
- Estimate magnitude — approximate to see which options are unreasonable
- Plug in simple numbers if variables make the problem abstract
- Back-solve from answer choices when quicker than solving directly
🧮 Calculator Tips for Part B
- Store values in calculator memory for reuse in multiple parts
- Use the nDeriv function for derivatives and fnInt for definite integrals
- Be careful with mode settings (radians vs degrees) — AP Calculus always uses radians
📝 Example Question Strategy
Question:
If f′(x)=6x2−4xf'(x) = 6x^2 - 4x, find f(2)−f(0)f(2) - f(0).
Approach:
- Recognize that f(b)−f(a)f(b) - f(a) = ∫abf′(x)dx\int_a^b f'(x) dx (FTC)
- Integrate:
∫02(6x2−4x)dx=[2x3−2x2]02=(16−8)−0=8\int_0^2 (6x^2 - 4x) dx = \left[ 2x^3 - 2x^2 \right]_0^2 = (16 - 8) - 0 = 8
Answer: 8\mathbf{8}
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Over-relying on your calculator — it can’t fix a wrong setup
- Skipping questions too slowly, eating into review time
- Misreading graphs or missing subtle details like open vs closed endpoints
- Forgetting to stay in radian mode
📊 Practice Strategy from RevisionDojo
- Simulate full MCQ sections under timed conditions weekly
- Review every wrong answer and classify the error type (concept, setup, calculation)
- Practice using calculator shortcuts until they’re second nature
🧭 Final Advice from RevisionDojo
Multiple-choice success is as much about exam technique as it is about calculus skills. By managing time, eliminating poor choices, and applying smart calculator use, you’ll maximize your point gain and walk into the FRQs with confidence.
