AP Macroeconomics FRQ Room

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AP Macroeconomics Free Response Questions

The best way to get better at FRQs is practice. Browse through dozens of practice AP Macroeconomics FRQs to get ready for the big day.

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  • Unit 1: Basic Economic Concepts (46)
  • Unit 2: Economic Indicators and the Business Cycle (44)
  • Unit 3: National Income and Price Determination (34)
  • Unit 4: Financial Sector (47)
  • Unit 5: Long-Run Consequences of Stabilization Policies (46)
  • Unit 6: Open Economy—International Trade and Finance (33)
Unit 1: Basic Economic Concepts

Analyzing Trade-offs and Decision Making in Firms

A firm must make production decisions that involve trade-offs. Use the following scenario and data t

Hard

Comparative Advantage and Gains from Trade

This question examines how countries can benefit from specializing in the production of goods where

Medium

Comparing Microeconomics and Macroeconomics

This question explores the different scopes of microeconomics and macroeconomics and their relevance

Easy

Consumer Choice and Indifference Curves

Examine consumer choice theory by analyzing indifference curves and budget constraints. Use diagrams

Hard

Consumer Preferences and Demand Shifts

Analyze how changes in consumer income and tastes affect demand using a demand and supply framework.

Easy

Consumer Surplus Analysis and Reservation Price

Examine the concept of consumer surplus, its relation to reservation price, and its quantification u

Easy

Determinants of Economic Growth and Efficiency

Economic growth involves improvements in an economy's productive capacity. Answer the following part

Medium

Determining Demand Changes Using the INSECT Determinants

This question tests your understanding of the determinants of demand using the INSECT acronym (Incom

Easy

Economic Efficiency: Productive and Allocative Efficiency

This question focuses on the concepts of productive and allocative efficiency and their relation to

Easy

Economic Growth and Contraction: Business Cycle Dynamics

Discuss the concepts of economic expansion and contraction, and analyze a simplified business cycle

Medium

Economic Growth and Efficiency

This question focuses on the relationship between economic growth, technological advancements, and e

Medium

Economic Growth and Shifts in the Production Possibilities Frontier

This question examines the concept of economic growth and how it is represented by shifts in the Pro

Medium

Firm Production Decisions: Trade-Off and Input Choices

Analyze the trade-offs a firm faces when choosing between different production methods with varying

Hard

FRQ 2: Production Possibilities Curve Analysis

This question explores the Production Possibilities Curve (PPC), including its shape, opportunity co

Medium

FRQ 5: Determinants of Demand – Impact on Market Equilibrium

Evaluate how changes in various determinants of demand affect market equilibrium using a hypothetica

Easy

FRQ 9: Government Intervention in Cases of Market Failure

Analyze the concept of market failure and discuss the role of government intervention in achieving a

Easy

FRQ 15: Supply Shift Due to Increased Production Costs

Analyze how a rise in production costs affects the supply curve and the subsequent market equilibriu

Easy

FRQ 17: Impact of a Supply Shock on Aggregate Output and Prices

Apply aggregate demand and aggregate supply analysis to evaluate the short-run and long-run effects

Hard

Impact of Rising Labor Costs on Supply

A widget manufacturing firm faces a significant increase in labor costs due to rising wages. This in

Easy

Market Disequilibrium Analysis during Price Controls

This question explores how government-imposed price controls, such as price ceilings or floors, lead

Hard

Market Efficiency and Failures

Assess market efficiency by discussing productive and allocative efficiency and how market failures

Medium

Market Equilibrium and Disequilibrium

Analyze market equilibrium using a given supply and demand schedule. Identify disequilibrium conditi

Medium

Market Equilibrium and Disequilibrium

This question explores market equilibrium and the adjustment mechanisms when the market is in disequ

Medium

Market Equilibrium and Disequilibrium Analysis

This question explores how market equilibrium is determined and what happens when the market is not

Easy

Market Equilibrium and Price Determination

This question examines your understanding of market equilibrium and your ability to determine the eq

Medium

Market Failure, Productive and Allocative Efficiency

Examine the concepts of productive and allocative efficiency, and analyze how market failures can le

Hard

Money Market Dynamics

Analyze the effects of changes in money supply and money demand on interest rates in the money marke

Hard

Opportunity Cost and Trade-offs Analysis

This question explores the concept of opportunity cost and trade-offs in individual decision-making.

Medium

Opportunity Cost Calculation Problem

This question tests your understanding of opportunity cost. Answer each part with definitions, calcu

Easy

Opportunity Cost in Consumer Decision-Making

This question focuses on understanding opportunity cost in the context of everyday consumer decision

Easy

Opportunity Cost in Personal and Economic Decisions

This question explores the concept of opportunity cost in the context of individual decision making

Easy

Opportunity Cost in Resource Allocation

This question examines the concept of opportunity cost as a fundamental element in resource allocati

Easy

Opportunity Costs and the Production Possibility Frontier

This question explores the relationship between opportunity costs and the slope of the Production Po

Hard

Opportunity Costs in Personal Financial Decisions

This question examines how individuals make decisions based on opportunity costs, particularly in th

Medium

Price Floor Effects in Agricultural Markets

This question focuses on the impact of a government-imposed price floor on market outcomes, using th

Medium

Production Possibility Curve, Economic Growth, and Efficiency

Examine the production possibilities of an economy that produces two goods: Good A and Good B.

Hard

Resource Reallocation and Efficiency on a PPC

Assess the implications of resource reallocation on efficiency using a production possibilities fram

Medium

Scarcity and Economic Decision Making on an Island

An isolated island has very limited natural resources, including food and water. The island’s govern

Easy

Scarcity and Opportunity Costs

This FRQ addresses basic concepts of scarcity and opportunity cost. Answer the following parts:

Easy

Scarcity and Opportunity Costs Calculation

This question focuses on the fundamental concepts of economic scarcity, opportunity cost, and trade-

Easy

Scarcity and Resource Allocation in Decision-Making

This question examines the concept of scarcity and how it forces both individuals and governments to

Easy

Scarcity, Choice, and Opportunity Cost in Everyday Decisions

Scarcity forces individuals to make choices due to limited resources. In this question, consider a s

Easy

Supply Curve Shifts: Impact of Taxes and Technology

Examine how a change in production costs, due to an increase in taxes, affects the supply curve and

Medium

Supply Determinants and Shifts

This question examines the determinants of supply and how they cause shifts in the supply curve. Ans

Easy

The Role of Technology in Economic Development

This question examines how advancements in technology drive economic growth and affect opportunity c

Medium

Trade-Offs and Opportunity Costs in Decision-Making

This question examines the concept of trade-offs and opportunity cost in economic decision-making.

Easy
Unit 2: Economic Indicators and the Business Cycle

AD-AS Framework and Consumer Spending Shock

Analyze an economy's response to a decrease in consumer spending using the aggregate demand and aggr

Extreme

AD-AS Framework: Deflation Analysis

Using the Aggregate Demand-Aggregate Supply framework, analyze the causes and effects of deflation a

Medium

Analyzing CPI and Inflation

Consider a simplified economy where the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in Year A is 150 and in Year B is

Medium

Business Cycle Analysis

Using quarterly GDP growth rate data, analyze the phases of the business cycle in a hypothetical eco

Medium

Business Cycle: Policy Responses to Recession

Economic recessions require timely policy responses to mitigate downturns. Answer the following: Pa

Extreme

Business Cycles and GDP Fluctuations

The business cycle reflects the fluctuations in economic activity over time. Answer the following:

Medium

Business Cycles and Monetary Policy Response

Examine the phases of the business cycle and analyze how monetary policy can be used to mitigate the

Medium

Calculating Real GDP Growth and Economic Performance

Using the relationship $$\%\,\Delta\,\text{Real GDP} = \%\,\Delta\,\text{Nominal GDP} - \%\,\Delta\,

Easy

Circular Flow and Economic Activity

Use the circular flow model to explain how economic activity circulates in a closed economy and disc

Easy

Comprehensive Business Cycle Analysis

Analyze a complex business cycle graph and propose policy recommendations based on cyclical changes.

Extreme

Costs of Inflation: Menu and Shoe-Leather Costs

This question examines the microeconomic costs associated with inflation, specifically focusing on m

Hard

Costs of Inflation: Menu Costs and Shoe-Leather Costs

Examine the costs associated with inflation and illustrate their impacts on both consumers and firms

Medium

CPI and Inflation Calculation Problem

This question examines your ability to compute the inflation rate using CPI data and helps you analy

Medium

CPI and Quality Adjustments

Discuss the challenges the Consumer Price Index (CPI) faces in accurately measuring inflation, parti

Hard

CPI Computation and Limitations

Using a market basket approach, compute the Consumer Price Index (CPI), determine the inflation rate

Hard

CPI Methodology Critique: Substitution Bias and Quality Adjustments

Critically evaluate the methodology behind the Consumer Price Index (CPI), with a focus on substitut

Medium

Effects of Inflation on Real Income

Kelsey earned a nominal income of $40,000 in 2014, when the CPI was 234.8. In 2015, her nominal inco

Easy

Effects of Unexpected Inflation on Economic Agents

Unexpected inflation can have varied effects on different groups in the economy. Answer the followin

Medium

Evaluating Aggregate Income vs. Aggregate Spending

Critically analyze the relationship between aggregate income and aggregate spending in GDP measureme

Medium

Evaluating the Limitations of GDP

Discuss the limitations of GDP as a measure of economic welfare. In your responses, consider factors

Medium

Evaluating the Limitations of GDP as a Measure of Economic Welfare

Critically assess GDP as an indicator of economic welfare by discussing its limitations and suggesti

Medium

Expanding the Circular Flow Model: Introducing the Foreign Sector

This question extends your understanding of the circular flow model by incorporating the foreign sec

Easy

Expanding the Circular Flow Model: The Role of Government and Foreign Sector

Extend the basic circular flow model to include the government and foreign sectors, and discuss the

Medium

GDP Calculation Using the Value-Added Approach

In this question, you will use transaction data from various stages of production to compute GDP usi

Medium

GDP Components and Calculation

Analyze how GDP is calculated using the expenditure approach. Evaluate the contributions of consumer

Medium

GDP per Capita: Comparing Living Standards

This question asks you to evaluate GDP per capita as an indicator of living standards and to discuss

Easy

Impact of Government Spending on GDP

This question explores how changes in government spending affect GDP and discusses potential seconda

Medium

Impact of Inflation Expectations on Interest Rates

Assess the role of inflation expectations in determining nominal interest rates and discuss the impl

Medium

Inflation and Its Impact on Labor Markets

Discuss how inflation affects labor markets, particularly the adjustment of wages and employment lev

Medium

Inflation’s Impact on Real Income and Purchasing Power

This question explores the relationship between nominal and real income in the context of inflation

Medium

Net Exports and Their Role in GDP

Evaluate the role of net exports in the GDP calculation and discuss how changes in net exports refle

Medium

Nominal and Real Interest Rates in an Inflationary Economy

Examine the relationship between the nominal interest rate, real interest rate, and expected inflati

Hard

Real Income and Purchasing Power

Calculate real income from nominal income data and explain the importance of tracking real income.

Medium

Real Income and Purchasing Power

Explain the significance of real income in economic analysis. Calculate real income from given nomin

Medium

Real Income and Purchasing Power Analysis

Evaluate the impact of inflation on real income and, by extension, on purchasing power using the pro

Hard

Real Income vs Nominal Income Adjustments

Inflation can distort the interpretation of income figures. Answer the following: Part A: Refer to

Medium

Real vs. Nominal GDP Calculation

Using provided data, calculate the Real GDP and demonstrate the difference between Nominal and Real

Easy

Shadow Economy and Its Impact on GDP Measurement

Transactions in the shadow (underground) economy are not included in traditional GDP measures. Analy

Extreme

Structural vs Frictional Unemployment Analysis

Outline the differences between structural and frictional unemployment in an economy.

Easy

Technological Change and Economic Productivity

This question analyzes how technological innovations impact aggregate productivity and examines thei

Extreme

The Impact of Technological Change on Economic Indicators

Assess the effects of technological innovation on key economic indicators and policy measures.

Medium

Transitioning from Nominal to Real Income with CPI Adjustments

This question tests your ability to convert nominal income into real income using CPI data and to di

Easy

Unemployment Analysis: Types and Impact

This question explores the different types of unemployment and examines their responses to economic

Medium

Unemployment Rate and Labor Force Participation Analysis

Given the following data for a country: total population (16 years and older) is 200 million, employ

Medium
Unit 3: National Income and Price Determination

Aggregate Demand Shifts and Their Impact on Real GDP

This question evaluates your understanding of how changes in consumer sentiment affect aggregate dem

Easy

Analyzing Long-Run Aggregate Supply and Economic Growth

This question tests your understanding of long-run aggregate supply (LRAS) and its relationship to e

Medium

Analyzing the Relationship between AD Shifts and Employment Levels

This question explores how shifts in aggregate demand affect employment levels in the economy during

Medium

Comprehensive Analysis of AD-AS Equilibrium, Fiscal Policy, and Multipliers

This comprehensive question integrates multiple macroeconomic concepts including aggregate demand (A

Extreme

Contractionary Fiscal Policy in an Overheating Economy

Consider an economy operating above its full-employment level (an inflationary gap). The government

Extreme

Effects of Exchange Rates on Net Exports

Analyze the relationship between exchange rates and net exports, and assess how fiscal policy can in

Hard

Fiscal Policy Expansion versus Contraction

Discuss the differing impacts of expansionary versus contractionary fiscal policy on aggregate deman

Medium

Fiscal Policy Lags and Economic Stabilization

This question examines the concept of fiscal policy lags and their impact on the effectiveness of go

Extreme

Fiscal Stimulus for Economic Recovery

In times of recession, government intervention can help stimulate the economy. (a) Explain the rati

Extreme

Foreign Sector Influence on Aggregate Demand

Examine how changes in foreign income and exchange rate movements influence aggregate demand, partic

Hard

Foreign Sector Influences on Aggregate Demand

This question examines how foreign sector dynamics, such as changes in exchange rates, affect aggreg

Hard

FRQ 1: Aggregate Demand Components and Shifts

Examine the following data on the four components of aggregate demand (C, I, G, X-M) from Q1 to Q2 a

Medium

FRQ 3: Spending and Tax Multipliers

This question tests your understanding of the multiplier effect in fiscal policy. Part A: Given tha

Medium

FRQ 3: Tax Multiplier Calculation

Evaluate the tax multiplier and its impact on aggregate demand using provided data.

Medium

FRQ 10: Automatic Stabilizers and Economic Fluctuations

Automatic stabilizers play a crucial role in moderating economic fluctuations without deliberate pol

Medium

FRQ 13: Aggregate Demand Curve Diagram and Shifts

Illustrate the aggregate demand (AD) curve and explain the factors that can shift it.

Medium

FRQ 14: Fiscal Policy, Spending, and Tax Multipliers in a Recession

Analyze the roles of spending and tax multipliers in fiscal policy during a recession.

Hard

FRQ 16: Globalization and Net Exports

Globalization influences the net exports component of aggregate demand. Part A: Explain how fluctua

Easy

FRQ 17: Technological Advancements and Shifts in Long-Run Aggregate Supply

Discuss how technological advancements influence the long-run aggregate supply (LRAS) curve and the

Medium

FRQ 18: Policy Interventions during Inflation: A Fiscal Perspective

Discuss the fiscal policy interventions that can be used to address an inflationary gap, including p

Hard

Graphing the AD-AS Model: Identifying Economic Equilibrium

Construct and analyze an AD-AS diagram to illustrate economic equilibrium. Identify key characterist

Medium

Impact of a Natural Disaster on Aggregate Supply and Demand

This question examines the effects of a sudden natural disaster on the economy's aggregate supply an

Hard

Inflationary Gap and Policy Response

An economy operating above its full-employment level encounters rising inflationary pressures. Analy

Hard

Long-Run Adjustments: Shifts in LRAS and Policy Implications

This question investigates how changes in technology and resources shift the long-run aggregate supp

Hard

Long-Run Aggregate Supply and Economic Growth

Discuss the factors that can shift the long-run aggregate supply (LRAS) curve to the right and analy

Easy

Long-Run Aggregate Supply: Economic Growth and Productivity

Discuss the determinants that shift the long-run aggregate supply (LRAS) curve and their roles in pr

Medium

Long-Run Self-Adjustment in the AD-AS Model

In this question, you will explore the long-run self-adjustment process that occurs in an economy ex

Hard

Multiplier Effects and Fiscal Policy Stimulus

Examine the operation of multiplier effects in fiscal policy. Use given parameters to calculate both

Medium

Output Gap Analysis via the AD-AS Model

An economy has a full-employment output (GDPf) of $2 trillion but is currently producing only $1.8 t

Medium

Policy Responses and Automatic Stabilizers

Examine the role of fiscal policy and automatic stabilizers in mitigating economic fluctuations, par

Medium

Supply Shock and SRAS Shift

A sudden increase in global oil prices causes an adverse supply shock in the economy. Analyze how th

Hard

Supply Shocks and Economic Stability

Analyze the effects of supply shocks on economic stability and discuss potential policy responses to

Medium

Supply Shocks and Short-Run Aggregate Supply

Analyze the role of supply shocks in shifting the short-run aggregate supply (SRAS) and their effect

Medium

Technological Advancements and the Long-Run Aggregate Supply Shift

Suppose a breakthrough in technology increases labor productivity, thereby expanding the economy's p

Hard
Unit 4: Financial Sector

Analyzing Bank Balance Sheets Using T-Accounts

T-accounts are a fundamental tool for understanding bank balance sheets. Address the following:

Easy

Analyzing Negative Real Interest Rates and the Housing Market

Negative real interest rates can have significant effects on the housing market. Answer the followin

Hard

Bond Prices and Interest Rate Movements

This question examines the inverse relationship between bond prices and interest rates.

Medium

Bond Pricing and the Inverse Relationship with Interest Rates

Bond prices and interest rates share an inverse relationship. Answer the following: (i) Explain why

Medium

Calculating Inflation Effects using GDP Deflator

This question tests your ability to compute nominal GDP, the GDP deflator, the inflation rate, and a

Hard

Calculating Real vs. Nominal Interest Rates

Interest rates can be expressed in nominal and real terms. Use the following equations: $$\text{Nomi

Easy

Central Bank Communication and Market Expectations

Discuss the role of central bank communication in shaping market expectations, and analyze its effec

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Monetary Policy Tools

Central banks use various tools to influence the money supply. Answer the following: (i) Compare op

Hard

Comparing Monetary Policy Tools: Discount Rate vs. Reserve Requirements

The Federal Reserve employs various tools to influence the economy. Compare the discount rate and th

Hard

Discount Rate Policy Effects

This question evaluates how changes in the discount rate affect commercial banks and the overall mon

Medium

Equity vs. Debt Financing Decisions

This question investigates the differences between equity financing and debt financing and their imp

Medium

Equity vs. Debt Financing: Analysis Using Financial Data

A company is evaluating its financing options and is considering both equity financing (issuing stoc

Medium

Evaluating Investment Choices: Rate of Return Analysis

A firm is evaluating two potential investments: a physical asset and a financial asset. The firm req

Medium

Expansionary Monetary Policy and Aggregate Demand

This question explores the effects of expansionary monetary policy on the economy. Answer the follow

Medium

Expansionary Monetary Policy and the Money Market

This question analyzes how an expansionary monetary policy affects the money market equilibrium. The

Medium

Expansionary vs. Contractionary Monetary Policy

Monetary policy can be either expansionary or contractionary depending on economic conditions. In an

Medium

Foreign Capital Flows and Domestic Financial Markets

This question explores the impact of foreign capital inflows on the domestic loanable funds market.

Hard

Foreign Investment and Its Impact on the Loanable Funds Market

Foreign investment can significantly influence domestic financial markets. Answer the following: (i

Hard

Fractional Reserve Banking and T-Account Analysis

This question examines the process of money creation in a fractional reserve banking system using T-

Hard

Fractional Reserve Banking and the Money Multiplier

This question addresses fractional reserve banking, the money multiplier, and bank T-account analysi

Medium

FRQ 1: Evaluating Investment Decisions Based on Expected Rate of Return

Using the provided table of assets, analyze which asset meets the firm's criterion for a physical as

Easy

FRQ 2: Comparing Equity and Debt Financing

Discuss the differences between equity financing and debt financing, and analyze how firms decide be

Medium

FRQ 10: Impact of Discount Rate and Reserve Ratio on Banking

Analyze how changes in the discount rate and the required reserve ratio affect bank reserves and the

Hard

Functions and Measures of Money

This question explores the roles of money in the economy and the measurement of the money supply. An

Medium

Impact of Changes in Required Reserve Ratios on Banking and Money Supply

Changes in the required reserve ratio can have significant effects on the money creation process. An

Medium

Impact of Reserve Ratio Changes on Money Creation

Examine how changes in the required reserve ratio affect the money multiplier and overall money crea

Medium

Inflation and Borrowing Costs

This question investigates how inflation influences nominal and real interest rates and the subseque

Easy

Inflation and Its Impact on Investment Decisions

Analyze how inflation affects real interest rates and, in turn, investment decisions within an econo

Hard

Integrated Financial Sector Analysis

This question integrates concepts from nominal and real interest rates, inflation, and monetary supp

Extreme

Interest Rate Changes and Bond Pricing

Analyze how changes in nominal interest rates affect bond prices for a bond with a fixed coupon rate

Hard

Interest Rate Determination in the Loanable Funds Market

This question involves analyzing multiple determinants that affect the equilibrium real interest rat

Extreme

Loanable Funds Market and Government Borrowing Impact

This question focuses on the impact of government borrowing on the loanable funds market. Consider a

Hard

Loanable Funds Market Dynamics

Examine the loanable funds market in terms of supply and demand and discuss the effects of fiscal po

Hard

Loanable Funds Market: Effect of Deficit Spending and Foreign Investment

The loanable funds market is affected by various factors such as government deficit spending and for

Hard

Measurement of the Money Supply

Examine the definitions of M1 and M2 and discuss why the money supply is considered fixed at a given

Medium

Monetary Base versus Money Supply

Analyze the differences between the monetary base and the broader money supply. Answer the following

Medium

Monetary Policy and the Federal Funds Rate

The Federal Funds Rate is a crucial component in the execution of monetary policy. Consider the foll

Hard

Money Market Equilibrium and Monetary Policy Impact

This question examines money market equilibrium and the effect of expansionary monetary policy on in

Hard

Money Market Equilibrium and Monetary Policy Impacts

Monetary policy operations affect the money market significantly. Use the following scenario to anal

Hard

Nominal vs Real Interest Rate: Impact on Investment and Purchasing Power

This question examines the relationship between nominal and real interest rates and their impact on

Medium

Open Market Operations and Their Impact

Discuss the role of open market operations (OMOs) in monetary policy and analyze their effects on th

Medium

Open Market Operations: Evaluating the Fed's Actions

Open market operations (OMOs) are a key tool for the Federal Reserve. Analyze a scenario where the F

Medium

Real vs. Nominal Interest Rates and Investment Decisions

This question assesses your understanding of nominal versus real interest rates and their impact on

Easy

The Impact of Government Deficit Spending on Loanable Funds

Government deficit spending can have significant effects on the loanable funds market. Consider a sc

Hard

The Role of Foreign Demand in the Loanable Funds Market

This question examines how increased foreign demand for domestic financial assets impacts the loanab

Medium

Transaction vs. Asset Demand for Money

The total demand for money comprises both transaction demand and asset demand. Answer the following

Hard

Understanding the Monetary Base and Money Supply

Differentiate between the monetary base and the broader money supply, and apply the money multiplier

Easy
Unit 5: Long-Run Consequences of Stabilization Policies

Analyzing Double Shocks: Recession and Inflation Simultaneously

An economy is hit by two simultaneous shocks: a decline in aggregate demand due to reduced consumer

Extreme

Analyzing Stagflation and Policy Responses

Stagflation is a period when inflation and unemployment rise simultaneously. This situation poses a

Hard

Application of the Quantity Theory of Money

The Quantity Theory of Money asserts that changes in the money supply have a direct impact on the pr

Medium

Contractionary Monetary Policy in Response to Inflationary Pressures

Facing an inflationary gap with rapidly rising prices, the central bank implements contractionary mo

Medium

Coordinated Fiscal and Monetary Policies for Full Employment

Achieving full employment often requires a coordinated effort between fiscal and monetary policies.

Hard

Coordinated Fiscal and Monetary Policy in Stimulating Recovery

Consider an economy in a deep recessionary gap where policymakers decide to use both expansionary fi

Hard

Coordination of Fiscal and Monetary Policies during Deep Recession

An economy in a deep recession faces high unemployment and underutilized capacity. Analyze how a coo

Hard

Deflationary Pressures and the Role of Fiscal Policy

An economy is experiencing deflation due to a decrease in aggregate demand and a contraction in the

Hard

Economic Growth: Production Possibilities and Aggregate Production Function

Discuss the determinants of long-run economic growth and illustrate how an economy's production poss

Medium

Evaluating Public Policy Initiatives in Economic Growth

Critically assess the impact of public policy initiatives such as increased education and infrastruc

Medium

Evaluating the Impact of Infrastructure Spending on Long-Run Growth

The government launches a major infrastructure spending program aimed at improving transportation ne

Medium

Fiscal Policy Impacts in Different Economic Phases

Compare the effects of expansionary fiscal policy when an economy is in a recessionary gap versus wh

Hard

Fiscal Policy, Budget Deficits, and National Debt

Persistent budget deficits contribute to the national debt, affecting a country’s economic stability

Medium

FRQ 1: Loanable Funds Market – Government Borrowing Impact

Analyze how an increase in government borrowing affects the loanable funds market. In your response,

Medium

FRQ 3: Coordination of Fiscal and Monetary Policies in Deep Recession

Evaluate how coordinated fiscal and monetary policies can be used in a deep recession to restore ful

Hard

FRQ 5: Money Growth and Inflation – The Quantity Theory of Money

Using the quantity theory of money, analyze how changes in the money supply affect the price level.

Medium

FRQ 7: Public Debt, Budget Deficits, and Crowding Out

Discuss the implications of budget deficits and public debt on the economy, focusing on the mechanis

Medium

FRQ 9: Wage-Price Spiral and Double Shifts

Examine the concept of the wage-price spiral and how double shifts in aggregate demand (AD) and shor

Extreme

FRQ 10: Monetary Policy Effects on the Money Market

Analyze how expansionary monetary policy impacts the money market and, subsequently, the broader eco

Medium

FRQ 14: Trade-Offs in Inflation and Unemployment – Policy Analysis

Analyze the trade-offs between inflation and unemployment in the short run, and explain why this tra

Medium

FRQ 15: Long-Run Phillips Curve and the Natural Rate of Unemployment

Using the Phillips curve framework, explain why the long-run Phillips curve is vertical and discuss

Medium

FRQ 17: Risk Behavior, Interest Rates, and Investment Incentives

Discuss how changes in tax policy can influence risk-taking and investment incentives. Analyze the p

Medium

FRQ 18: Fiscal Stimulus and Its Impact on National Output and Employment

Evaluate the effects of fiscal stimulus on national output and employment. Use the multiplier concep

Medium

FRQ 19: Public Policy and Infrastructure Spending – Effects on AD and LRAS

Examine how government spending on infrastructure can affect both aggregate demand and long-run aggr

Medium

Impact of Contractionary Monetary Policy on AD and Inflation

In an economy experiencing rising inflation, the central bank decides to contract the money supply.

Medium

Impact of State and Local Deficits on National Economic Performance

During an economic recession, state and local governments increase their deficits. Analyze how this

Hard

Impact of Supply-Side Policies on Aggregate Supply

Supply-side policies are aimed at improving the productive capacity of the economy. In this question

Medium

Implications of a Balanced Budget Amendment on Fiscal Policy Flexibility

There is a proposal to adopt a balanced budget amendment that would require the government to balanc

Medium

Inflationary Gap Correction and Price Level Adjustment

An economy is operating above its full-employment level, resulting in an inflationary gap. In this q

Hard

Inflationary Gap Correction via Contractionary Policies

When an economy operates above full employment (an inflationary gap), policymakers may use contracti

Hard

Influence of Money Supply and Velocity on Inflation

Using the equation of exchange, analyze the effects of changes in the money supply (M) and the veloc

Hard

Long-Run Consequences of Stabilization Policies: A Comprehensive Policy Analysis

Stabilization policies have profound long-run consequences for an economy. In this final question, y

Extreme

Long-Run Monetary Neutrality: Theory and Evidence

Discuss the theory of monetary neutrality and analyze its implications for long-run economic growth.

Hard

Monetary Neutrality and Real GDP

Monetary neutrality suggests that changes in the money supply affect nominal variables but not real

Hard

Monetary Neutrality in the Long Run

The concept of monetary neutrality holds that changes in the money supply do not affect real variabl

Medium

Monetary Neutrality vs. Short-Run Non-Neutrality

This question explores the concept of monetary neutrality in the long run versus non-neutral effects

Medium

Monetary Policy for Recessionary Gap Correction

An economy experiencing a recessionary gap sees the central bank increase the money supply by 20% to

Medium

Monetary Policy in Recessionary Gap Correction

This question addresses the role of monetary policy in correcting a recessionary gap. When an econom

Easy

Policy Coordination: Balancing Fiscal and Monetary Policy

Modern economies often face conflicting pressures that require coordination between fiscal and monet

Extreme

Productivity Enhancements and Long-Run Economic Growth

Analyze how improvements in productivity drive long-run economic growth. Consider the roles of physi

Medium

Quantity Theory of Money and the Effects of Money Supply Changes

Utilize the equation of exchange to analyze the impact of an increase in the money supply on the pri

Medium

Recessionary Gap and Long‐Run Adjustment

In an economy initially operating at full employment, a loss of consumer and firm confidence causes

Easy

Supply-Side Fiscal Policies and Economic Growth

This question examines how supply-side fiscal policies, such as tax incentives and investment credit

Medium

Supply-Side Fiscal Policy and Long-Run Economic Growth

Evaluate how supply-side fiscal policy, such as reducing income taxes, can enhance long-run economic

Medium

Supply-Side Policies and Economic Growth

Examine how supply-side policies, such as lowering taxes and increasing education spending, can impa

Medium

Technology Shocks and Shifts in SRAS

Technological improvements can reduce production costs and shift the short-run aggregate supply curv

Easy
Unit 6: Open Economy—International Trade and Finance

Analyzing Balance of Payments Data

A country provides the following data for the year: • Goods and Services: Exports = $500 billion, I

Medium

Analyzing Net Export Changes Using Data

Analyze how fluctuations in the currency value influence net exports using the data provided in the

Easy

Analyzing Short-Run Forex Market Adjustments

Examine a situation in which speculators cause shifts in the forex market. Use the provided graph to

Hard

Balance of Payments and Exchange Rate Dynamics: A Case Study

Based on the provided balance of payments table, analyze the drivers of the BOP imbalance and the re

Medium

Combined Fiscal and Monetary Policy Effects on Exchange Rates

Consider a scenario in which the government adopts an expansionary fiscal policy (increasing aggrega

Extreme

Comparative Analysis of Tariffs vs. Quotas: Economic Efficiency

This FRQ asks you to compare the economic impacts of tariffs and quotas, particularly in terms of th

Hard

Comparing Economic Effects: Tariffs vs. Quotas on Imports

Compare the economic implications of a tariff and a quota on imported cars using the case provided.

Medium

Comparing Tariffs and Quotas

The table below compares the effects of tariffs and import quotas on the domestic market for a given

Medium

Currency Appreciation Effects on Net Exports

A graph is provided that shows the relationship between a stronger domestic currency and net exports

Easy

Current Account Deficits and Capital Inflows

In a given fiscal year, the U.S. records a current account deficit of $150 billion and a capital acc

Medium

Determinants of Exchange Rate Shifts: A Comprehensive Analysis

Refer to the graph labeled 'Foreign Exchange Market for U.S. Dollar' provided below. Identify and ex

Hard

Determinants of Exchange Rates in a Globalized Economy

Discuss the various determinants of exchange rates in a globalized economy and analyze their potenti

Easy

Effects of Monetary Contraction on Domestic Markets

Analyze how a contractionary monetary policy affects domestic interest rates, capital flows, and the

Hard

Fed Intervention in Balance-of-Payments Adjustment

Analyze the role of the Federal Reserve in intervening in the foreign exchange market to correct bal

Extreme

Fiscal Policy's Effect on Aggregate Demand and Exchange Rates

Discuss the impact of expansionary fiscal policy on aggregate demand, national income, and the excha

Easy

FRQ 9: Circular Flow of Dollars and Balance of Payments Adjustments

The circular flow of dollars is a fundamental concept in the balance of payments. This question requ

Medium

FRQ 9: Comparative Analysis of Tariffs and Quotas

Tariffs and import quotas are policy tools used to protect domestic industries, but they have differ

Medium

FRQ 13: Impact of Global Economic Shocks on the Forex Market

Global economic shocks can have significant impacts on the foreign exchange market. In this question

Extreme

Impact of Relative Incomes on Currency Demand

Analyze how differences in relative incomes between countries can influence currency demand and exch

Easy

Impact of Tariffs on the Domestic Steel Market

Analyze the effects of imposing a protective tariff on imported steel.

Hard

International Capital Flows and Real Interest Rates

Explain how real interest rates influence international capital flows and the subsequent effects on

Hard

Monetary Policy and Exchange Rates

Discuss how monetary policy influences exchange rates and net exports. Provide detailed explanations

Hard

Monetary Policy Impact on Exchange Rates

An expansionary monetary policy, such as an increase in the money supply, can have significant effec

Medium

Monetary Policy's Influence on the Money Market and Exchange Rates

Evaluate the impact of an expansionary monetary policy on domestic interest rates and the foreign ex

Medium

Official Reserves and Balance of Payments Adjustment

Using the following table, determine the necessary official reserves adjustment and explain its role

Medium

Quotas vs. Tariffs: Evaluating Market Outcomes

Both quotas and tariffs are used to restrict imports, but they have different effects on the domesti

Medium

Real Effects of Exchange Rate Movements on Net Exports

Examine the impact of currency appreciation on a nation's net exports and overall aggregate demand.

Easy

Real Interest Rates and International Capital Flows

The relationship between domestic real interest rates and international capital flows can be observe

Medium

Real Interest Rates and International Capital Flows

This FRQ explores how differences in real interest rates influence international capital movements.

Hard

Speculation and Exchange Rate Volatility

Examine the role of speculative activity in the foreign exchange market and its effects on exchange

Hard

Tariffs and International Trade

Tariffs are imposed to protect domestic industries but can have several unintended economic effects.

Medium

Understanding Balance of Payments Components

Explain the three primary components of the balance of payments (current account, capital account, a

Easy

US Balance of Payment Analysis: Current and Capital Accounts

The United States publishes its balance of payments, which includes the current account and the capi

Easy

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Where can I find practice free response questions for the AP Macroeconomics exam?
The free response section of each AP exam varies slightly, so you’ll definitely want to practice that before stepping into that exam room. Here are some free places to find practice FRQs :
  • Of course, make sure to run through College Board's past FRQ questions!
  • Once you’re done with those go through all the questions in the AP MacroeconomicsFree Response Room. You can answer the question and have it grade you against the rubric so you know exactly where to improve.
  • Reddit it also a great place to find AP free response questions that other students may have access to.
How do I practice for AP AP Macroeconomics Exam FRQs?
Once you’re done reviewing your study guides, find and bookmark all the free response questions you can find. The question above has some good places to look! while you’re going through them, simulate exam conditions by setting a timer that matches the time allowed on the actual exam. Time management is going to help you answer the FRQs on the real exam concisely when you’re in that time crunch.
What are some tips for AP Macroeconomics free response questions?
Before you start writing out your response, take a few minutes to outline the key points you want to make sure to touch on. This may seem like a waste of time, but it’s very helpful in making sure your response effectively addresses all the parts of the question. Once you do your practice free response questions, compare them to scoring guidelines and sample responses to identify areas for improvement. When you do the free response practice on the AP Macroeconomics Free Response Room, there’s an option to let it grade your response against the rubric and tell you exactly what you need to study more.
How do I answer AP Macroeconomics free-response questions?
Answering AP Macroeconomics free response questions the right way is all about practice! As you go through the AP AP Macroeconomics Free Response Room, treat it like a real exam and approach it this way so you stay calm during the actual exam. When you first see the question, take some time to process exactly what it’s asking. Make sure to also read through all the sub-parts in the question and re-read the main prompt, making sure to circle and underline any key information. This will help you allocate your time properly and also make sure you are hitting all the parts of the question. Before you answer each question, note down the key points you want to hit and evidence you want to use (where applicable). Once you have the skeleton of your response, writing it out will be quick, plus you won’t make any silly mistake in a rush and forget something important.