Introduction
The last 48 hours before the AP Calculus exam can feel overwhelming. With so much content — from derivatives to integrals to series — it’s easy to wonder what you should prioritize. The good news is that strategic review matters more than cramming. By focusing on high-yield topics, quick problem-solving strategies, and exam pacing, you can make huge gains in these final hours.
This guide will show you exactly how to spend the last two days before the AP Calculus exam so you walk in confident and ready.
Step 1: Focus on High-Yield Topics
Not all topics are equally important. In the last 48 hours, concentrate on the ones that appear most frequently on the exam.
For AP Calculus AB, focus on:
- Derivatives (rules, applications, tangent lines, related rates)
- Integrals (definite & indefinite, u-substitution)
- The Fundamental Theorem of Calculus
- Area & Volume problems
- Differential Equations basics
For AP Calculus BC, add:
- Series and sequences (convergence/divergence, Taylor/Maclaurin)
- Parametric and polar functions
- Advanced integration (by parts, partial fractions)
Step 2: Work on Timed Practice Questions
Don’t waste the last 48 hours reading notes without solving problems. Instead:
- Do timed multiple-choice sets (20–30 questions).
- Review at least 3 free-response questions (FRQs) each day.
- Focus on speed AND accuracy — AP Calculus is about pacing.
You can find realistic practice sets on RevisionDojo, which are designed to mirror the AP exam’s format.
Step 3: Review Formulas and Theorems
Make a condensed formula sheet (or use RevisionDojo’s). In the last 48 hours, ensure you can recall:
- Derivative rules (power, product, quotient, chain rule)
- Trigonometric integrals
- Fundamental Theorem of Calculus
- Mean Value Theorem
- Taylor series expansions (for BC)
Step 4: Simulate Exam Conditions
Set aside one 3-hour block to do a full exam simulation. This helps you:
- Get used to the pacing of MCQs + FRQs.
- Learn how to manage test-day stamina.
- Practice bubbling answers quickly and clearly.
Step 5: Master Justifications on FRQs
In the last 48 hours, practice writing clear justifications. The AP graders award points for correct reasoning, not just answers. For example:
- Instead of just writing “f is increasing,” write:
“f is increasing because f’(x) > 0 on the interval [a, b].”
Step 6: Get Exam-Day Ready
- Sleep at least 7 hours the night before.
- Pack pencils, calculator, and snacks.
- Do light review the morning of the test (formulas and 2–3 problems).
48-Hour Sample Schedule
Day 1:
- Morning: Review derivatives + integrals (AB topics).
- Afternoon: Timed multiple-choice set.
- Evening: 3 FRQs (focus on justifications).
Day 2:
- Morning: Review theorems + formula sheet.
- Afternoon: Timed exam simulation.
- Evening: Light review + sleep early.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cramming everything: Stick to high-yield concepts.
- Ignoring FRQs: They’re worth 50% of the score.
- Skipping calculator practice: Some questions require graphing calculator skills.
- Overworking: Rest is as important as study.
Study Smart with RevisionDojo
RevisionDojo offers last-minute crash guides, practice sets, and formula breakdowns tailored for AP Calculus AB & BC. If you only have 48 hours left, using structured resources like these ensures you don’t waste time guessing what to study.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I learn AP Calculus in just 48 hours?
A: No, but you can significantly boost your score by focusing on high-yield review and practicing problem-solving.
Q: What’s the best thing to do the night before the exam?
A: Light review (formulas + 2–3 problems), then rest. Sleep matters more than cramming.
Q: Should I study new topics in the last 48 hours?
A: No. Focus on reinforcing what you already know and reviewing common problem types.
Q: Where can I find last-minute AP Calculus review materials?
A: RevisionDojo has structured 48-hour study plans and practice exams designed for AP success.
