AP Computer Science A

The exam format includes 40 multiple-choice questions and 4 free response questions. Students are allotted 90 minutes to complete the multiple-choice section and 90 minutes to compose their responses to the free response questions. To make sure you’re prepared enough to finish in time, take a look through our free AP Computer Science A study guide that covers the most important material you should know.

How do I study for AP Computer Science A?

You’ve likely covered a lot of material during your course this year, but to get a 5 on the AP exam, it’s important you understand how often each topic shows up. Once you take a look through the breakdown below, make sure to read through the AP Computer Science A study guide above with all the key points you should know for each unit.

What units are on AP Computer Science A?

Unit 1: Primitive Types
In this unit, you will gain a foundation in the Java programming language and other essential coding concepts.
Unit 2: Using Objects
Discover how to represent real-world objects in the digital space using reference data, and explore more advanced operations.
Unit 3: Boolean Expressions and if Statements
Focus on conditional statements to solve problems and control outcomes, as you explore the building blocks of algorithms.
Unit 4: Iteration
Learn the importance of repetition in algorithms and how to effectively use iteration.
Unit 5: Writing Classes
Explore the organization of behaviors and attributes into classes to represent real-world interactions digitally, while considering the legal and ethical implications.
Unit 6: Array
Gain techniques and standard algorithms for working with collections of related data structures.
Unit 7: ArrayList
Take a closer look at larger data sets and the use of ArrayList objects, while considering privacy concerns.
Unit 8: 2D Array
Expand your understanding of arrays to include 2D arrays, which represent data sets in a table format.
Unit 9: Inheritance
Learn how to manipulate code without altering existing code by using subclasses to create a hierarchical structure.
Unit 10: Recursion
Solve larger problems by breaking them down into smaller, simpler versions using recursive methods.

What are the video resources?

We’ve handpicked some of our favorite youtube channels and videos that align with the key topics and themes covered in our AP Computer Science A study guides. These channels can be a great way to get familiar with the concepts and tools of computer science as you learn a subset of the Java programming language. You'll do hands-on labs to design, write, and test computer programs that solve problems or accomplish tasks.

Where can I ask AP Computer Science A questions?

Connect with like-minded students who are also preparing for the exam and delve into the world of AP Computer Science A review together. By joining our Discord community, you can collaborate, exchange questions, discuss AP Computer Science A notes, and discuss any tricky problems with fellow AP Computer Science A students. Together, you can better understand challenging concepts, share helpful resources, and support each other on your way to getting a 5!

What is AP Computer Science A?

AP Computer Science A explores the concepts and tools of computer science as you learn a subset of the Java programming language. On this page, you’ll find AP Computer Science A resources to help you with your AP Computer Science A review.