AP Precalculus
Course Description
AP Precalculus is a college-level course that prepares students for future studies in calculus and other mathematics-intensive fields. The course focuses on modeling and functions, helping students build a deep understanding of the mathematical relationships that describe real-world situations. Students explore polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, rational, trigonometric, and piecewise functions through multiple representations and meaningful applications.
Key Components:
Conceptual Understanding: In-depth study of function behavior, transformations, and relationships across algebraic, graphical, numerical, and verbal contexts
Analytical Applications: Real-world modeling tasks that require students to interpret and solve problems using appropriate function types and structures
Multiple Representations: Use of graphs, tables, equations, and written explanations to analyze functions and communicate mathematical reasoning
Justification and Reasoning: Clear and logical explanations of processes, including appropriate use of function notation and mathematical vocabulary
AP Exam Details
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AP Precalculus has a traditional written exam administered in May, which is scored by the College Board and makes up 100% of the AP score. The exam includes:
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Multiple-Choice Section: 40 questions that assess understanding of function types, transformations, modeling, and analytical reasoning across different representations.
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Free-Response Section: 4 multi-part questions that require students to interpret functions, justify solutions, and apply mathematical concepts to real-world and theoretical scenarios.
The exam is evaluated for accuracy, reasoning, representation, and the ability to communicate mathematical thinking clearly and effectively.
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Helpful Info
Mr. Messner
Michael Porinchak
Maximum Insight
AP Precalculus Score Distribution
In 2024, the first year of the AP Precalculus exam, 25.9% of students earned a 5, 23.9% a 4, and 25.9% a 3, for a total pass rate (score of 3 or higher) of 75.6%. The mean score was 3.42, indicating a strong initial performance across a wide test-taker base.
In 2025, performance improved slightly across the board: 28% of students earned a 5, 26% earned a 4, and 27% earned a 3. The pass rate rose to 81%, suggesting increased familiarity with the exam structure and content.
While data on the mean score and number of test takers in 2025 is not yet available, the rise in top scores and pass rate points to a promising trend in student success and course alignment.
Tips & Feedback
Focus on understanding how different function types behave and how they model real-world relationships. Use multiple representations—graphs, tables, equations, and verbal reasoning—to connect concepts and solve problems. Practice interpreting questions carefully and justifying your reasoning clearly. Don’t skip over transformations and piecewise functions—they show up often. Build fluency through consistent practice, and remember: the goal is not just to solve equations, but to make sense of the math behind them.
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