Many students take the course over the Internet. If you do then be sure to get a textbook and some practice questions to test out your knowledge. The more you test yourself, the better prepared you will be for the final exam. Don’t over analyze things, just take a deep breath and keep going!
There are a couple of ways to study for the AP Calculus AB Exam, the first is by using a computer to help keep you focused, and the second by using textbooks and class materials. I suggest using both methods for getting as much studying done as possible. It is easier to learn when you are being challenged.
One thing to consider is whether or not you need a calculator for the multiple choice portion of the course. The reasoning behind that is that if you need one for the multiple choice section then you might as well just have it there, right? After all, you will have to use the calculator no matter what you decide to do. It’s just smart to make sure you have at least one to take from the start!
Once you have gotten over this initial hurdle, the next step in preparing is preparation. Get started on the task of mapping out your coursework. Start by reviewing the topics you heard in class, but also took notes on so you can reference back to them later. Next, start figuring out how many problems you will have to tackle in each section. This will give you an idea of how much time you will have available to work with. Plan your study time appropriately.
Most math courses have a calculator built-in with practice tests included. You will also find that some instructors include practice tests on their websites, so you can use them online as well. You can take these tests anywhere that AP Calculus is offered, including at home. Practice your quadratic formulas, series sums, and even some real-life problems, making sure to try your solutions on various calculators before going on to the real thing. You’ll want to spend as much time as you can practice these problems and answering multiple choice questions in order to maximize your score.
Remember that time is an issue in the AP Calculus AB Exam. Don’t worry if you spend several hours studying, just as long as you finish in the end. There are three different sections and you should complete them in the same amount of time. You will need to decide exactly which set of multiple choice questions to tackle first, so plan ahead. That way, you can start focusing your time and attention on each section and work efficiently towards your goal of passing the test with a high score.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to practice your problems. The exam will ask multiple choice questions in a short amount of time, so you might as well get familiar with the calculator you’ll be using. You might even find yourself taking a few incorrect turns here and there, which is when you’ll need to review your answers and work towards a correct answer. So, get comfortable with the calculator you’re using and practice your problems until they feel right to you.