Click each FRQ to expand and score parts A-G individually (1 pt each). FRQ types based on 2025 scoring guidelines.
Pure knowledge question — no maps, charts, or images. Tests recall and explanation.
Includes 1 stimulus (map, chart, graph, image, or infographic). Requires data interpretation.
Includes 2 stimuli (maps, charts, images, tables). Most complex — requires cross-referencing data.
Auto-generated based on your current scores
📊 Unit Confidence Tracker — 7 Units
Rate your confidence in each of the 7 units. Units 2-7 are equally weighted (12-17% each). Each FRQ spans at least 2 units.
How AP Human Geography Scoring Works
The exam has two equally weighted sections, both fully digital via the Bluebook testing app. No paper booklets — all responses are typed and auto-submitted. No calculator is needed.
| Section | Questions | Time | Weight | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I: Multiple Choice | 60 Qs (5 choices) | 60 min | 50% | 60 pts |
| II-Q1: No Stimulus | Parts A-G (7 pts) | 75 min | 50% | 7 × (60/21) ≈ 20 |
| II-Q2: One Stimulus | Parts A-G (7 pts) | 7 × (60/21) ≈ 20 | ||
| II-Q3: Two Stimuli | Parts A-G (7 pts) | 7 × (60/21) ≈ 20 |
Composite = MCQ raw (60 pts) + FRQ scaled (21 raw → 60 pts) = 120 total. Each FRQ part (A-G) is scored 0 or 1 by AP readers — independently, not holistically.
FRQ Command Terms — Know What Each Verb Asks
Every FRQ part (A-G) uses one of these command verbs. Understanding the difference between "describe" and "explain" is the single most common reason students lose points. Each part is independently scored — 1 point or 0.
Pro tip: "AP = Address the Prompt." Start your answer with the command term: "An independent state is defined as..." or "The spatial pattern shows that..."
Unit Weights on the AP Human Geography Exam
The exam covers 7 units. Units 2-7 carry roughly equal weight (12-17% each). Unit 1 (Thinking Geographically) is lighter but provides foundational skills for the entire exam. Each FRQ covers at least 2 units.
2025 AP Human Geography Score Distributions
In 2025, 283,512 students took AP Human Geography — making it one of the largest AP exams. The pass rate rose to 64.7% (from 56.1% in 2024), a +8.6 percentage point jump.
Historical Pass Rate Trends (2020-2025)
2025 = first year of fully digital exam + Evidence-Based Standard Setting
Exam Strategies
Multiple Choice
60 Qs in 60 min = 1 min each. No penalty for guessing — always answer. 30-40% have stimulus (maps, charts). Eliminate 2 choices first, then choose. Focus on geographic vocabulary and spatial patterns.
Free Response General
25 min per FRQ. Label each part (A, B, C...). Answer in complete sentences. Each part = 1 point, scored independently. Don't waste time writing paragraphs when 2 sentences earn full credit.
Stimulus Questions
Q2 has 1 stimulus, Q3 has 2. Study the stimulus BEFORE reading parts. Identify patterns, outliers, and spatial relationships. Reference specific data from the stimulus in your answers.
Digital Exam Tips
Practice typing FRQ answers — handwriting is gone. Use Bluebook's highlighting and annotation tools. You CAN go back within a section. Responses auto-submit — no need to click submit.
Is AP Human Geography a Good First AP?
AP Human Geography is one of the most popular entry-level AP courses, often taken by 9th and 10th graders as their first Advanced Placement experience. Here's why it works well as a first AP:
| Factor | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Real-world content | Topics like migration, culture, and urbanization connect to everyday life |
| No prerequisites | No prior AP or advanced coursework required |
| Improving pass rate | 64.7% pass rate in 2025 — up from 54% in 2022 |
| Skills transfer | Map reading, data analysis, and argumentative writing help in future AP courses |
| College credit | Most colleges accept 3+ for 3-4 semester hours of Intro to Geography |