The Free Response Questions (FRQs) make up 50% of your AP Biology exam score, which means perfecting your approach here can dramatically boost your grade.
It’s not just about knowing the content — it’s about presenting your answer the way AP readers expect.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to write an AP Biology FRQ answer that maximizes points, avoids common pitfalls, and demonstrates your mastery of biological concepts.
1. Understand the FRQ Format
Each AP Biology exam has 6 FRQs:
- 2 long-form (worth more points, typically with multiple subparts a–e)
- 4 short-form (worth fewer points, often one to three subparts)
You get 90 minutes for all FRQs — that’s about:
- 20–25 minutes per long FRQ
- 10–12 minutes per short FRQ
2. The Core Scoring System
AP Biology FRQs are point-based, not graded holistically. This means:
- Each correct statement or explanation earns specific points.
- Partial credit is common if your reasoning is partly correct.
- Fluff, filler, or long introductions do not earn points.
3. Use the C-E-R Method (Claim, Evidence, Reasoning)
This formula works for almost every FRQ:
- Claim → Directly answer the question in one sentence.
- Evidence → Provide specific data, facts, or observations.
- Reasoning → Explain why the evidence supports your claim, using biological principles.
Example:
Claim: Plants grown in red light show increased photosynthetic rate.
Evidence: In the experiment, plants under red light produced 40% more O₂ bubbles per minute than plants under green light.
Reasoning: Red wavelengths are absorbed efficiently by chlorophyll, leading to more light-dependent reactions and ATP production.
4. Answer in the Order Asked
- If the FRQ is labeled (a), (b), (c) — answer in that order.
- Use matching labels in your response.
- This makes it easy for graders to find points.
5. Include Specific Vocabulary
Sprinkle in precise biological terms where relevant:
- “Allele frequency” instead of “gene difference”
- “ATP hydrolysis” instead of “energy use”
- “Active transport” instead of “cell pumping”
6. Draw Clear Diagrams When Appropriate
- Diagrams must be labeled to earn points.
- Keep them simple — focus on clarity, not artistic skill.
- Example: A labeled diagram of DNA replication showing 5’→3’ directionality.
7. Avoid Common FRQ Mistakes
- ❌ Writing long introductions (wastes time, no points)
- ❌ Restating the question without adding value
- ❌ Giving incomplete explanations (missing cause or mechanism)
- ❌ Using vague phrases like “it helps the cell” without explaining how
8. Practice With Past FRQs
The College Board releases past FRQs with scoring guidelines. Use them to:
- Time yourself under exam conditions
- Compare your answer with sample high-scoring responses
- Identify common scoring patterns
RevisionDojo Pro Tip
When practicing, write answers by hand. This simulates test conditions and trains you to organize thoughts quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long should an FRQ answer be?
A: Quality matters more than length — some full-credit answers are just 3–5 sentences, as long as they directly answer each part with evidence and reasoning.
Q: Should I write in paragraph form or bullet points?
A: Both are accepted. Bullet points can help you be concise and clear, but use full sentences to show reasoning.
Q: Do diagrams replace written explanations?
A: No — diagrams can support your answer, but you still need written reasoning to earn full credit.
Call to Action
Want to see model perfect FRQ answers for every AP Biology topic?
📘 Visit RevisionDojo’s AP Biology FRQ Vault for sample responses, scoring rubrics, and practice questions.
