AP Calculus AB

AP Calculus AB Exam — Format, Syllabus, and Scoring

The AP Calculus AB exam is 3 hours and 15 minutes long and consists of two main sections: Multiple Choice and Free Response. Each section is divided into two parts based on whether a calculator is allowed.

Exam Format

Section Part Questions Duration Calculator Weight
Multiple Choice Part A 30 60 min No 50%
Multiple Choice Part B 15 45 min Yes 50%
Free Response Part A 2 30 min Yes 50%
Free Response Part B 4 60 min No 50%

Calculators are only allowed in the middle two parts of the exam. The first multiple-choice part and last free-response part do not allow calculators.

Topics Covered on the AP Calculus AB Exam

The exam is organized around three Big Ideas with specific Learning Objectives.

Big Idea 1: Limits

  • Express limits symbolically and interpret them

  • Estimate and determine limits of functions

  • Analyze continuity and discontinuity

  • Apply calculus theorems using continuity

Big Idea 2: Derivatives

  • Identify and calculate derivatives including higher-order

  • Analyze function properties using derivatives

  • Solve slope, tangent line, related rates, optimization, and motion problems

  • Verify and estimate solutions to differential equations

  • Apply the Mean Value Theorem

Big Idea 3: Integrals and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus

  • Recognize antiderivatives of basic functions

  • Interpret definite integrals as limits of Riemann sums

  • Approximate and calculate definite integrals

  • Apply integrals to motion, area, volume, and average value problems

  • Solve differential equations using integrals

  • Apply L’Hospital’s Rule

Scoring the AP Calculus AB Exam

Both sections are worth 50% of the total score.

  • Multiple Choice: 1 point per correct answer, no penalty for wrong answers, maximum 45 points

  • Free Response: 6 questions, up to 9 points each, maximum 54 points

Raw scores are converted to the AP scale of 1–5. Example conversion from 2018:

  • 0–26 points = 1

  • 27–38 points = 2

  • 39–51 points = 3

  • 52–67 points = 4

  • 68–108 points = 5

Online AP Calculus AB Coaching at Gurgaon Academy

Gurgaon Academy offers online AP Calculus AB coaching with expert faculty focused on:

  • Conceptual clarity and understanding

  • Exam strategies and time management

  • Step-by-step problem solving

  • Mock tests with feedback

Students can choose one-to-one or small group online classes and learn at their own pace from home.

Contact Gurgaon Academy

WhatsApp: +91 99996 50006
Email: gurgaon.tutor@gmail.com
Website: www.gurgaonacademy.com