Section One: This is the shortest section. Only about a half-hour long, this part uses the quadratic formula so you’ll have to memorize it rather than applying it. However, the test makers allow you to save up points if you take this section at even a slower pace than you’re supposed to. So, if you have an hour or two free, why not take this part first? Even though it’s not the most important section, it doesn’t take up much time, so you won’t waste any time at all.
Section Two: In this section you’ll practice solving for real numbers (not just the integral and exponential functions) as well as real numbers that evaluate directly to a common denominator (i.e., the real numbers are numbers like 1.0). You’ll find that when you’re preparing for the second part of the AP Calculus AB Exam, you’ll find that you have a better grasp of what real numbers are and how they can be used in the solve the problem you’re given. Since you already have some idea of what problems can be solvable using quadratic formula, the section tests things out. Don’t worry if you don’t know the answer to a question; the section gives you an incorrect answer hint so you can try to solve the problem using other methods. It also explains the formula for finding the roots of a polynomial equation.
Section Three: This is where you’ll really see how well you’ve done in the previous section. Here you’ll find out about the concepts used in vector algebra and complex analysis. We also get introduced to the concepts of derivatives. Finally, you get to test your knowledge by writing functions of a single variable. This portion of the practice exam is probably the most practical, since you will be solving real-life problems in order to show how you’ve done.
Once you’ve finished the third section of the AP Calculus AB Practice Exam, you can move onto the fourth section. Here you’ll learn more about integral and derivative functions, which will allow you to write functions of one variable and derivatives of another. You’ll also be given some problems to solve, which will test your understanding of algebra. You’ll have enough time to rest between sessions before moving on to the next section.
Section Four: This is the part that tests your understanding of quadratic equations. It starts with a problem that has to be solved using a polynomial calculator or finite integration. Then, you’ll find the solutions of the equations using quadratic forms and finally multiply them together using the formula previously mentioned for integral and derivative functions. This part of the practice tests is relatively easy, but very time-consuming. In order to maximize your time, try to start each session with the first topic already thoroughly explained, then complete all four topics in the order they are listed.
The fifth and final section includes a quiz to measure your readiness for the main exam. This is where you need to focus the most to maximize your score. This section asks you to find the solution to a linear equation. It then asks you to evaluate whether or not the result is valid, and if so, what factors caused it to change. By answering the questions correctly, you’ll see how much you’ve prepared for this.
Although it may sound like a lot of information, the first section of the practice exam will not seem all that daunting. By taking the time to review previous topics and complete practice problems, you’ll get a good idea of where you stand. From there, you can tackle the main part of the test in turn as needed. By doing this, you’ll have no problem passing your A AB calc part one exam.
