Are you ready to tackle AP Physics 2 with a new perspective? Starting with the 2024–25 exam cycle, the College Board has updated the AP Physics 2 exam format to better align with the revised curriculum and trust us, there are some notable changes. In this post, we’ll walk through the new structure, highlight the differences from the older format, and chat about what these changes mean for your exam prep.
What’s the Updated Format for AP Physics 2?
Section I: Multiple-Choice (MCQs)
New Structure:
• 40 multiple-choice questions
• 80 minutes to complete this section
• This section makes up 50% of your overall score
Key Changes:
• All questions now have 4 answer choices (multiselect questions are a thing of the past)
• Fewer questions mean more time per question, which gives you a bit more breathing room
Section II: Free-Response (FRQs)
New Structure:
• 4 free-response questions
• 100 minutes are allotted for this section
• This section accounts for the remaining 50% of your score
Question Types:
• Mathematical Routines – Sharpen your algebra skills for computation-heavy problems
• Translation Between Representations – Convert graphs, diagrams, and equations seamlessly
• Experimental Design and Analysis – Show off your ability to plan and interpret experiments
• Qualitative/Quantitative Translation – Explain physics concepts both in words and numbers
Find latest syllabus, official specification by the College Board and AP Physics practice resources here.
The Hybrid Digital Model
Unlike the fully paper-based exams of the past, AP Physics 2 now adopts a hybrid digital format:
• MCQ Section: Completed on a computer
• FRQ Section: Written by hand on paper booklets
This shift is designed to streamline the exam process while still giving you the personal touch needed for long-form responses.
How Does This Compare to the Old Format?
Let’s take a look at a quick side-by-side:
Feature | Old Format | New Format (2025) |
Multiple-Choice Section | 50 questions in 90 minutes | 40 questions in 80 minutes |
Answer Choices | 5 options per question; multiselect present | 4 options per question; multiselect removed |
Free-Response Section | 5 questions in 90 minutes | 4 questions in 100 minutes |
Exam Administration | Entirely paper-based | Hybrid digital (MCQs digital, FRQs handwritten) |
What’s Changed?
Fewer Questions, More Focus: With the reduction in the number of questions, you now have more time to think about each one, especially important given the conceptual depth of AP Physics 2.
Digital Transition: Moving the MCQ section online helps streamline answer selection, though you still get the classic handwritten FRQ experience.
Curriculum Adjustments: Remember, as part of the curriculum overhaul, fluids have been moved out of AP Physics 2 and into AP Physics 1. In return, AP Physics 2 now digs deeper into waves, optics, and modern physics topics like Blackbody radiation and Compton scattering.
What Do These Changes Mean for Your Prep?
For Multiple-Choice:
Get Comfortable Digitally: Since you’ll be taking the MCQs on a computer, practicing online with digital practice tests can help ease any nerves.
Focus on Conceptual Understanding: Fewer questions mean that each one is designed to probe your understanding more deeply—so don’t just memorize formulas; understand why they work.
For Free-Response:
Quality Over Quantity: With only 4 FRQs, every answer counts. Use the extra time wisely to craft clear, well-organized responses.
Master the Skill Areas: Work on translating representations, designing experiments, and executing mathematical routines. These are the pillars of the FRQ section.
Overall Strategy:
Balance Your Study: Focus both on content mastery and on practicing the specific science practices assessed by the exam.
Familiarize Yourself with the Hybrid Format: Since the exam splits between digital and paper components, simulate this environment during your practice sessions.
Wrapping Up
The new AP Physics 2 exam format is designed to give you a bit more room to showcase your understanding, while aligning more closely with the revised curriculum. Fewer multiple-choice questions and a more focused free-response section mean that every answer you provide carries even more weight. By adapting your study habits to these changes, you’ll be well on your way to acing the exam!
What are your thoughts on these changes? Have you started preparing with digital practice tests yet? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
Happy studying, and here’s to a great AP Physics 2 exam in 2025!
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