AP Psychology Exam 2019 PDF | Multiple Choice Questions & Study Guide

Overview of the 2019 AP Psychology Exam

The 2019 AP Psychology Exam includes multiple-choice and free-response sections, testing students’ understanding of psychological concepts, theories, and research methods. It assesses knowledge across various units, with a focus on critical thinking and application. Resources like practice questions, scoring guidelines, and study guides are available to help students prepare effectively for both sections of the exam.

The 2019 AP Psychology Exam consists of two main sections: multiple-choice and free-response. Section I includes 100 multiple-choice questions, assessing knowledge across nine units, while Section II contains two free-response questions requiring detailed answers. The exam is designed to evaluate critical thinking, application of concepts, and analytical skills. Students have 70 minutes for multiple-choice and 50 minutes for free-response questions. Resources like practice questions and scoring guidelines help prepare for the exam’s structured format and content requirements.

1.2. Importance of the Multiple-Choice Section

The multiple-choice section is crucial for assessing foundational knowledge and comprehension of key psychological concepts. It evaluates students’ ability to recall and apply theories, research methods, and terminology. With 100 questions, this section significantly impacts the total score, making it essential for students to thoroughly prepare. Practice resources, such as past exams and study guides, help students master this format and improve their test-taking strategies. Strong performance here sets a foundation for success in the free-response section.

Structure of Section I: Multiple Choice

Section I of the 2019 AP Psychology Exam features 100 multiple-choice questions, focusing on core concepts across psychological units, to be completed in 70 minutes.

2.1. Number of Questions and Time Allowed

The multiple-choice section of the 2019 AP Psychology Exam consists of 100 questions, with a 70-minute time allowance. This equates to approximately 42 seconds per question. The format is designed to assess a wide range of psychological concepts, requiring efficient time management and strategic thinking. Students must balance thorough reading with swift decision-making to complete all questions within the allotted time. Proper preparation and practice are essential to navigate this section effectively.

2.2. Content Areas Covered in the Multiple-Choice Section

The multiple-choice section of the 2019 AP Psychology Exam covers a diverse range of topics, including biological basis of behavior, sensation and perception, learning, cognitive processes, motivation, developmental psychology, personality, social psychology, abnormal psychology, and research methods. Each question is designed to test students’ understanding of key concepts and their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. The content is aligned with the course curriculum, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of psychological principles and theories.

Key Concepts and Theories Tested

The exam tests a wide range of psychological concepts, including biological processes, learning theories, cognitive functions, and social interactions, reflecting the curriculum’s comprehensive coverage of psychology effectively.

3.1. Biological Basis of Behavior

The biological basis of behavior is a fundamental topic in the 2019 AP Psychology Exam, focusing on how the brain, nervous system, and hormones influence behavior and cognition. Key concepts include the structure and function of neurons, synaptic transmission, brain regions, and the role of neurotransmitters. Questions may also cover the endocrine system and the biological aspects of motivation and emotion. Understanding these foundational principles is crucial for success in this section of the exam.

3.2. Sensation and Perception

The 2019 AP Psychology Exam includes questions on sensation and perception, focusing on how individuals detect and interpret stimuli. Key topics include absolute threshold, difference threshold, and Weber-Fechner law. Perceptual processes, such as Gestalt principles and depth perception, are also covered. Visual and auditory perception are emphasized, along with theories explaining how the brain organizes sensory information. Understanding these concepts is essential for addressing related multiple-choice questions effectively.

3.3. Learning and Conditioning

The 2019 AP Psychology Exam extensively covers learning and conditioning, focusing on classical conditioning, operant conditioning, and observational learning. Questions address key concepts like Pavlov’s classical conditioning, Skinner’s operant conditioning, and Bandura’s social learning theory. Multiple-choice questions test understanding of reinforcement, punishment, extinction, and spontaneous recovery. Additionally, the exam explores real-world applications of these theories, requiring students to apply their knowledge to practical scenarios. This section evaluates critical thinking and comprehension of fundamental psychological learning principles.

3.4. Cognitive Processes

The 2019 AP Psychology Exam evaluates understanding of cognitive processes, including perception, memory, language, and problem-solving. Multiple-choice questions focus on memory models like the Atkinson-Shiffrin theory and types of memory such as episodic and semantic. Language acquisition theories and cognitive biases are also tested. Students must demonstrate knowledge of how cognitive processes influence behavior and decision-making, applying theories to real-life scenarios. This section assesses the ability to analyze and interpret cognitive psychology concepts effectively.

3.5. Motivation and Emotion

The 2019 AP Psychology Exam assesses understanding of motivation theories, including Maslow’s hierarchy, self-determination theory, and intrinsic vs. extrinsic motivation. Emotion theories, such as James-Lange, Cannon-Bard, and two-factor theory, are also tested. Questions explore biological and psychological factors influencing emotional responses and motivational drives. Students must apply these concepts to real-world scenarios, demonstrating their ability to analyze how motivation and emotion shape human behavior and decision-making. This section evaluates critical thinking and conceptual application in these fundamental areas of psychology.

3.6. Developmental Psychology

The 2019 AP Psychology Exam evaluates knowledge of developmental psychology, focusing on cognitive, social, and emotional growth across the lifespan. Key concepts include Piaget’s stages of cognitive development, Erikson’s psychosocial stages, and Kohlberg’s theory of moral development. Questions also address language development, attachment styles, and adolescent identity formation. Understanding theories of human development and their application to real-world scenarios is crucial for success in this section. The exam tests the ability to analyze and apply developmental principles to various life stages and contexts.

3.7. Personality

The 2019 AP Psychology Exam assesses understanding of personality theories and their applications. Key concepts include Freud’s psychoanalytic theory, Jung’s analytical psychology, and the Big Five personality traits. Questions also cover behavioral theories, humanistic approaches like Maslow’s hierarchy, and trait theories such as the MBTI. The exam evaluates knowledge of personality assessment methods, including projective and objective tests like the Rorschach and MMPI. Understanding the strengths and limitations of these theories and their real-world applications is essential for success in this section.

3.8. Social Psychology

The 2019 AP Psychology Exam evaluates understanding of social psychology concepts, including attitudes, persuasion, and social influence. Key topics such as conformity, obedience, and altruism are assessed. Questions explore theories like social learning and cognitive dissonance, as well as group dynamics and prejudice. The exam also tests knowledge of research methods in social psychology, such as Milgram’s obedience study and the Stanford Prison Experiment. Understanding these concepts and their real-world applications is crucial for success in this section.

3.9. Abnormal Psychology

The 2019 AP Psychology Exam evaluates understanding of abnormal psychology, focusing on the diagnosis, classification, and treatment of mental disorders. Key topics include the DSM-5 criteria, biological and psychological factors in disorders, and research methods in psychopathology. Questions address anxiety, depressive, and schizophrenia spectrum disorders, emphasizing the role of biomarkers and stressors. The exam also tests knowledge of therapeutic approaches and ethical considerations in mental health assessment and treatment, reflecting advancements in psychological research and clinical practices.
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3.10. Research Methods and Statistics

The exam assesses understanding of research methods, including experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis. Key topics include t-tests, correlation, and the importance of controlling variables. Questions address ethical considerations, sampling methods, and the interpretation of data. The exam also tests knowledge of research designs, such as longitudinal and cross-sectional studies, and the application of statistical concepts to psychological research. Critical analysis and argumentation skills are essential for addressing these questions effectively.

Strategies for Success

Effective strategies include mastering content, practicing time management, and using elimination techniques. Familiarity with the exam format and regular review of mistakes enhance performance.

4.1. Effective Study Techniques

Effective study techniques for the 2019 AP Psychology exam involve active learning methods, such as creating detailed flashcards, engaging with practice questions, and reviewing course materials regularly. Utilizing official study guides and online resources can provide structured preparation. Additionally, joining study groups or using digital tools like Quizlet can enhance retention and understanding of key concepts. Consistent review of past exams and scoring guidelines helps familiarize students with the test format, improving their performance. Regular practice ensures mastery of both multiple-choice and free-response sections, building confidence for exam day.

4.2. Time Management During the Exam

Effective time management is crucial for the 2019 AP Psychology exam. Allocate 70 minutes for the 100 multiple-choice questions, averaging 30-45 seconds per question. For the free-response section, budget 50 minutes for two questions, ensuring detailed, well-organized responses. Skim questions quickly, identify key terms, and skip challenging ones initially. Use the process of elimination to narrow down answers. Manage time wisely to avoid rushing and ensure all questions are addressed. Prioritize accuracy over speed to maximize scores.

4.3. Elimination of Incorrect Answers

Eliminating incorrect answers is a strategic approach to maximizing scores on the 2019 AP Psychology multiple-choice section. Start by carefully reading the question stem and identifying key terms. Use this information to eliminate options that are clearly unrelated or contradictory to the topic. If unsure, focus on the remaining choices and make an educated guess. This method reduces error probability and increases the likelihood of selecting the correct answer. Prioritize this technique to enhance accuracy and efficiency during the exam.

Test-Taking Tips

Mastering the 2019 AP Psychology multiple-choice section requires strategic test-taking skills. Practice active reading, identify key terms, and eliminate clearly incorrect answers. Manage time effectively, allocating 1-2 minutes per question. Stay calm and avoid overthinking, as this can lead to errors. Regularly review practice questions to build familiarity with common question formats and improve decision-making under pressure. Consistent preparation enhances confidence and performance on exam day.

5.1. Understanding the Question Stem

Understanding the question stem is crucial for success on the 2019 AP Psychology multiple-choice section. Carefully read each stem to identify the key concept being tested. Pay attention to specific terms or phrases, such as “Which of the following is an example of…” or “Which psychologist is most closely associated with…”. Recognize question types, such as definition-based or application-based questions. Use context clues to eliminate incorrect options and narrow down the answer. Avoid falling for distractors designed to test common misconceptions. Practice analyzing stems from past exams to build proficiency.

5.2. Identifying Key Terms and Concepts

Identifying key terms and concepts in the 2019 AP Psychology multiple-choice questions is essential for accurate answers. Terms like “classical conditioning” or “hindsight bias” often signal specific theories or studies. Concepts such as cognitive dissonance or the structure of the brain should be recognized quickly. Use flashcards and practice questions to memorize definitions and associations. Pay attention to context clues within the question stem to connect terms with their correct applications. This strategy helps eliminate incorrect options and increases confidence in selecting the right answer. Regular review of course materials ensures strong familiarity with these critical elements.

5.3. Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Multiple-Choice Questions

To avoid common pitfalls in the 2019 AP Psychology multiple-choice section, focus on carefully reading each question and eliminating clearly incorrect answers first. Overthinking can lead to second-guessing correct responses, so trust your initial instincts. Be cautious of absolute terms like “always” or “never,” as they often indicate incorrect options. Additionally, manage your time wisely to avoid rushing through later questions. Practice with past exams helps identify and overcome these common traps, improving overall performance and confidence during the test.

Scoring Guidelines for Multiple-Choice Questions

The 2019 AP Psychology Exam scores multiple-choice questions based on correct answers, with no penalties for incorrect or blank responses. Each right answer earns one point, and raw scores are converted to scaled scores ranging from 1 to 5. Detailed scoring guidelines and distributions are available online, providing transparency and helping students understand how their performance is evaluated. This system ensures fair and consistent grading across all participants.

6.1. How Raw Scores Are Calculated

Raw scores for the 2019 AP Psychology Exam multiple-choice section are calculated by awarding one point for each correct answer, with no deduction for incorrect or blank responses. The total number of correct answers is summed to determine the raw score, which ranges from 0 to 100. This score is then converted to a scaled score between 1 and 5 using a statistical process to ensure fairness and consistency across all test takers. Detailed scoring distributions and guidelines are provided to help students understand their performance.

6.2. Conversion to Scaled Scores

The raw score from the multiple-choice section is converted to a scaled score ranging from 1 to 5. This conversion ensures fairness by accounting for slight differences in question difficulty across exam years. A statistical process adjusts the raw scores to maintain consistency and comparability. The scaled score reflects a student’s performance relative to others, with 5 being the highest. This method ensures that the exam remains equitable and that all test takers are evaluated on a level playing field.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Common mistakes include misreading questions, overthinking answers, and poor time management. Avoiding these errors requires careful reading, strategic guessing, and adhering to time limits strictly.

7.1. Misreading Questions

Misreading questions is a prevalent mistake during the exam, often leading to incorrect answers. Students may overlook specific details, such as “NOT” or “EXCEPT,” which can change the question’s meaning entirely. To avoid this, it’s crucial to read each question carefully and identify key terms. Practicing active reading strategies and staying calm under time pressure can help reduce errors. Additionally, eliminating obviously incorrect answers first can minimize the risk of misinterpreting the question stem. This approach ensures a more accurate response.

7.2. Overthinking and Second-Guessing

Overthinking and second-guessing are common pitfalls that can lead to confusion and incorrect answers. Students often spend too much time analyzing multiple-choice questions, doubting their initial responses. This can result in changing correct answers to incorrect ones. To avoid this, it’s essential to trust your first instinct and avoid overcomplicating the question. Time management is critical, as excessive deliberation can leave inadequate time for remaining questions. Stick with your initial answer unless you’re certain it’s wrong, and use the process-of-elimination strategy to increase confidence in your choices.

7.3. Time Mismanagement

Proper time allocation is crucial for success on the AP Psychology Exam. Mismanaging time can lead to rushing through questions or spending too long on a single item. Allocate a set amount of time for each question to ensure all sections are completed. Practice pacing during study sessions to build stamina and efficiency. Avoid getting stuck on difficult questions; instead, skip and return later. Effective time management maximizes the number of answered questions and minimizes stress, improving overall performance and confidence during the exam.

Free-Response Section Overview

The free-response section evaluates critical thinking and application skills through two essay questions, requiring clear, well-organized responses that demonstrate understanding of psychological concepts and theories.

8.1. Format and Requirements

The free-response section consists of two essay questions, each requiring a well-organized response with a clear thesis and supporting evidence. Students have 50 minutes to complete this portion, demonstrating their ability to analyze and apply psychological concepts. Responses are graded on understanding, application, and critical thinking. Clear writing and adherence to the question’s requirements are essential for optimal scoring. This section assesses depth of knowledge and the ability to articulate complex ideas effectively.

8.2. Scoring Criteria for Free-Response Questions

Free-response questions are scored based on understanding, application, and critical thinking. Each question is evaluated on a scale, with points awarded for accurate and relevant explanations. Graders assess the clarity of arguments, use of psychological terminology, and ability to address all parts of the question. Sample responses and scoring distributions provide insight into how answers are graded, helping students understand expectations and prepare effectively for the exam. Clear and concise writing enhances the likelihood of higher scores.

Practice Resources

Official study materials, including practice questions and scoring guidelines, are available to help students prepare for the exam. Additional resources like flashcards and online guides provide comprehensive review tools.

9.1. Official Study Materials

The College Board offers official study materials, including the 2019 AP Psychology Exam PDF, which contains authentic multiple-choice questions and detailed scoring guidelines. These resources provide insights into exam structure and content, helping students familiarize themselves with the format. Practice questions cover all nine units, with explanations to enhance understanding. Utilizing these materials ensures students are well-prepared for both the multiple-choice and free-response sections, aligning their study efforts with actual exam content. Regular practice with these tools builds confidence and improves performance.

9.2. Unofficial Practice Questions and Guides

Unofficial resources, such as flashcards and online guides, complement official study materials by offering additional practice questions and strategies. Websites like Quizlet provide interactive flashcards covering key terms and concepts. Unofficial practice questions, often organized by topic, help students identify weak areas. Guides and forums share test-taking tips, such as time management and answer elimination techniques. These tools, while not official, offer valuable supplementary support for mastering the multiple-choice section of the 2019 AP Psychology Exam. Regular use enhances preparation and confidence.

9.3. Flashcards and Memorization Tools

Flashcards are an essential tool for memorizing key terms, concepts, and theories in AP Psychology. Platforms like Quizlet offer digital flashcards covering topics such as biological basis of behavior and cognitive processes. Additionally, printable PDF flashcards allow students to study offline. These tools enable active recall and spaced repetition, enhancing memory retention. By focusing on high-yield terms and concepts, flashcards help students efficiently prepare for the multiple-choice section of the 2019 AP Psychology Exam. Regular use strengthens long-term understanding and exam readiness.

The 2019 AP Psychology Exam is a comprehensive assessment of students’ understanding of psychological concepts and theories. With a focus on both multiple-choice and free-response questions, it challenges critical thinking and application of knowledge. Utilizing resources like practice questions, scoring guidelines, and study guides enhances preparation. By mastering key concepts and strategies, students can confidently approach the exam and achieve success.