Understanding how AP exams are scored?

Has anyone mastered the art of AP exam scoring? I could really use your help. How are the AP exams scored? I've heard different things about how multiple-choice sections vs. free-response sections are evaluated, and it's all become a bit confusing.

Sure thing! AP exams are scored on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the best possible score. To arrive at this final AP score, the process involves a combination of how you perform in the Multiple-Choice section (MCQs) and the Free-Response section (FRQs). Here's a rough breakdown:

1. Multiple-Choice section: The MCQs usually compose about 50-60% of the total score, depending on the specific subject. AP exams correct for guessing (incorrect answers are not penalized), so it's usually beneficial to answer every question, even if you feel unsure about the answer.

2. Free-Response section: This sections makes up the remaining 40-50% of the total score. Free response can include a variety of different question types depending on the AP exam, including essays, short answers, document-based questions, and performance tasks. The specific scoring guidelines for this section will vary by subject, but in general, graders will be looking for evidence that you understand the material, can analyze information effectively, and can express yourself clearly and effectively. The graders, who are generally college professors or high school teachers, use a detailed rubric that lays out the specific skills and knowledge you need to demonstrate on each question to earn points.

After the multiple-choice and free-response section scores are calculated, they are combined and then converted into the five-point AP score that you receive. Note that it's often the case that even if you get a significant portion of the MCQs or FRQs incorrect, you can still receive a 5 due to the weightings and conversion of raw scores to the 1-5 scale.

Hope this helps clarify things!