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 (51)
  • Unit 2: Economic Indicators and the Business Cycle (37)
  • Unit 3: National Income and Price Determination (41)
  • Unit 4: Financial Sector (40)
  • Unit 5: Long-Run Consequences of Stabilization Policies (42)
  • Unit 6: Open Economy—International Trade and Finance (39)
Unit 1: Basic Economic Concepts

AD-AS Analysis of a Decrease in Consumer Spending

Analyze the macroeconomic effects of a 10% decline in consumer spending using the aggregate demand–a

Medium

Analyzing Demand Curve Shifts with Price Elasticity

This question examines the differences between movements along a demand curve and shifts in the dema

Hard

Analyzing Shifts in Demand: Determinants and Effects

Examine how changes in consumer income affect the demand curve and determine their impact on market

Medium

Application of the Law of Demand

This question delves into the law of demand and its graphical and analytical implications. Answer th

Easy

Calculating Opportunity Cost in Resource Allocation

This question asks you to compute opportunity cost in a given resource allocation scenario and to an

Easy

Comparative Advantage and Specialization: Computers and Smartphones

Two countries, Country X and Country Y, produce computers and smartphones. Their daily production ca

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Macro and Microeconomics

This question explores the differences between macroeconomics and microeconomics and examines their

Medium

Comprehensive Review of Basic Economic Concepts

This comprehensive question integrates multiple basic economic concepts including scarcity, opportun

Extreme

Determining Demand Changes Using the INSECT Determinants

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

Easy

Economic Decision-Making in Business: Balancing Costs and Benefits

Evaluate a firm's investment decisions by analyzing opportunity costs and net benefits.

Medium

FRQ 4: Market Equilibrium and Supply Shock Analysis

Analyze the impact of a supply shock on market equilibrium by applying supply and demand concepts us

Hard

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 11: Government Trade-offs: Taxation vs. Public Investment

Evaluate the trade-offs governments face when allocating scarce resources between taxation and publi

Medium

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

FRQ 20: Strategic Resource Allocation in a Competitive Firm

A firm faces limited resources and must allocate them between producing Product A and Product B. Ana

Extreme

Government Policies and Market Outcomes

This question explores how government intervention via subsidies can influence market outcomes. Anal

Hard

Government Taxation and Market Outcomes

Examine the effects of a per-unit tax on a competitive market through both a diagrammatic and analyt

Medium

Impact of Price Controls on Market Equilibrium

This question addresses the effects of price controls on market outcomes. Answer the following parts

Hard

Impact of Technological Advancements on Production

Examine the impact of technological innovations on production capabilities and economic output.

Medium

Inflation and the Phillips Curve

Analyze the relationship between inflation and unemployment using the Phillips Curve, especially in

Hard

Interpreting a Production Possibility Frontier (PPF)

Analyze a given Production Possibility Frontier (PPF) to determine economic efficiency and opportuni

Easy

Loanable Funds Market Impact

Examine the functioning of the loanable funds market. Use data, graphs, and economic analysis to ans

Hard

Macroeconomic Indicators and Policy Responses

This question focuses on key macroeconomic indicators and the policy responses to an overheating eco

Extreme

Market Adjustment: Surplus and Shortage Dynamics in the Electric Car Market

In the electric car market, assume that due to high demand, the market is experiencing a shortage wh

Medium

Market Disequilibrium Analysis during Price Controls

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

Hard

Market Equilibrium Analysis in a Consumer Goods Market

Using a demand and supply framework, analyze how an increase in consumer incomes affects the market

Easy

Market Equilibrium and Disequilibrium: Surplus and Shortage Analysis

Analyze how deviations from equilibrium create surpluses or shortages and how markets adjust to rest

Medium

Money Market Equilibrium and Interest Rates

Examine the money market and how changes in money demand or supply influence interest rates. Answer

Medium

Natural Resources Scarcity and Economic Decisions

This question examines how the scarcity of natural resources influences production decisions and tra

Medium

Opportunity Cost and Trade-offs Analysis

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

Medium

Opportunity Cost in Consumer Decision-Making

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

Easy

Opportunity Cost in Factory Production

A factory uses its resources to produce either cars or trucks. The factory can produce a maximum of

Medium

Opportunity Cost on the Production Possibility Frontier

Analyze opportunity cost by examining movements along a Production Possibility Curve (PPC).

Hard

Opportunity Costs and the Production Possibility Frontier

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

Hard

Policy Impacts on Opportunity Costs

This question explores how government policies, such as taxation, can affect the opportunity cost of

Hard

Price Elasticity of Demand

This question examines price elasticity of demand. Use definitions, calculations, and economic analy

Medium

Production Possibilities and Economic Efficiency

Examine the concept of production possibilities and efficiency. Answer each part using definitions,

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

Shifts in the Demand Curve: Causes and Effects

This question assesses your understanding of the determinants that cause shifts in the demand curve

Medium

Supply Determinants and Shifts

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

Easy

Tax Implications on Supply Decisions in the Tobacco Industry

Consider a scenario where the government imposes an excise tax on tobacco products. This tax increas

Hard

Technological Advancements and Efficiency

This question explores the impact of technological progress on productive and allocative efficiency

Medium

Technology and Supply: Effects on Equilibrium

Investigate the role of technological innovation in reducing production costs and altering market eq

Medium

The Effects of Taxation on Supply and Market Outcomes

Explore the impact of an excise tax on the supply curve, and analyze how it affects market equilibri

Extreme

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

Understanding Ceteris Paribus in Demand Analysis

Ceteris paribus ("all else equal") is a key assumption in economics when analyzing the demand for a

Easy

Understanding Market Disequilibrium: Surpluses and Shortages

This question explores market disequilibrium through the analysis of surpluses and shortages using p

Easy

Understanding the Law of Demand

This question evaluates your understanding of the law of demand and the difference between a change

Easy

Unemployment, Inflation, and the Phillips Curve

Analyze the relationship between inflation and unemployment using the Phillips Curve framework. Answ

Medium
Unit 2: Economic Indicators and the Business Cycle

AD-AS Framework: Deflation Analysis

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

Medium

Aggregate Income and National Income

National income can be calculated from both the aggregate income approach and the aggregate spending

Hard

Business Cycle Analysis: AD-AS Model

Interpret an AD-AS graph to demonstrate different phases of the business cycle and analyze changes i

Hard

Business Cycle Effects on Employment and Output

This question examines the relationship between the phases of the business cycle, employment trends,

Hard

Business Cycle Phases and Policy Implications

Analyze the phases of the business cycle and propose appropriate economic policies for each phase. U

Hard

Circular Flow and GDP: Understanding Economic Activity

This question involves analyzing the circular flow model of economic activity and its relationship t

Easy

Circular Flow in a Closed Economy

Analyze the basic circular flow model in a closed economy and explain the effects of including addit

Easy

Circular Flow with the Government Sector

Macroeconomic models often expand the basic circular flow to include the government and foreign sect

Medium

Comparing GDP Deflator and CPI

Both the GDP deflator and the Consumer Price Index are used to measure price changes in an economy.

Medium

Comparisons of Nominal and Real Income

Evaluate the impact of inflation on individual purchasing power by comparing nominal and real income

Medium

Comprehensive Evaluation of Economic Indicators

This final question requires you to integrate your knowledge of various economic indicators—includin

Extreme

Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Inflation

Evaluate the role of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in measuring inflation and analyze its impact on

Easy

Costs Associated with Inflation

Explain the concept of inflation costs with an emphasis on menu costs and shoe-leather costs.

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

Differentiating Types of Unemployment

Examine different forms of unemployment and illustrate how they manifest in the economy.

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

Evaluating Business Cycle Indicators

This question explores alternative indicators used to predict and evaluate business cycles beyond GD

Medium

Extended Circular Flow with Government and Foreign Sector

Describe how integrating the government and foreign sectors expands the circular flow model. Analyze

Medium

Fiscal Policy Impact on GDP Components

Consider an economy where the government increases its spending by $100 billion. Using the expenditu

Medium

GDP Components and Calculation

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

Medium

GDP Deflator and Price Indices

This question requires you to define the GDP deflator, perform a calculation, and analyze its limita

Medium

GDP, National Income, and the Value-Added Approach

This question examines students' understanding of different methods of calculating GDP, with a focus

Easy

Inflation, CPI, and Real Income Analysis

Evaluate how changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) affect the measurement of inflation and real

Medium

Labor Force Participation Analysis

Examine how labor force participation is measured and the effects that discouraged workers can have

Easy

Measuring Unemployment and Labor Force Participation

Examine the methods used to measure unemployment and the labor force participation rate. Calculate t

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 Versus Nominal GDP: A Comparative Analysis

Using provided data, calculate real GDP over time, analyze growth trends, and graph the trend to eva

Medium

Real vs. Nominal GDP Calculation

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

Easy

Short-run vs. Long-run Effects on Unemployment

This question requires you to analyze unemployment within the labor market, using diagrams and a dis

Hard

Structural vs Frictional Unemployment Analysis

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

Easy

Understanding Components of GDP

This question focuses on breaking down the components of the GDP equation. You will identify each co

Easy

Understanding Structural Unemployment

This question focuses on structural unemployment, including its causes, graphical representation, an

Medium

Unemployment and Discouraged Workers

Analyze how the presence of discouraged workers affects the official unemployment rate and the perce

Medium

Unemployment Measurement and Calculation

Using provided employment data, calculate the official unemployment rate and discuss potential pitfa

Easy
Unit 3: National Income and Price Determination

AD-AS Adjustments: Recessionary vs. Inflationary Gaps

Define and compare recessionary and inflationary gaps in the AD-AS model. Analyze the economic conse

Hard

AD-AS Equilibrium and the Impact of Market Expectations

This question investigates how market expectations, particularly regarding inflation, can affect the

Medium

Aggregate Demand and Fiscal Policy Impact

This question examines how expansionary fiscal policy impacts macroeconomic equilibrium using the AD

Medium

Aggregate Demand and Its Components Analysis

Analyze the impact of shifts in the components of aggregate demand on overall economic activity. In

Medium

Aggregate Demand Components and Policy Instruments

Dissect the components of Aggregate Demand and assess how fiscal policy instruments can influence th

Hard

Aggregate Supply Adjustments in Response to Labor Market Changes

Assess how changes in labor market conditions, such as a significant wage increase, affect the short

Medium

Automatic Stabilizers in Economic Downturns

During a recession, automatic stabilizers such as increased transfer payments and lower tax collecti

Medium

Components of Aggregate Demand and Curve Shifts

Aggregate Demand (AD) comprises four key components: consumption (C), investment (I), government spe

Easy

Composite Analysis: Supply Shock, Fiscal Response, and Long-Run Adjustment

An unexpected oil crisis triggers a negative supply shock, shifting the SRAS curve leftward. To coun

Extreme

Contractionary Fiscal Policy and Its Economic Impact

This question focuses on contractionary fiscal policy and its role in cooling an overheated economy.

Hard

Contractionary Fiscal Policy in an Overheating Economy

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

Extreme

Dynamic Adjustment of the Economy in Response to Fiscal Stimuli

Analyze the dynamic process by which an initial fiscal stimulus propagates through the economy, and

Hard

Fiscal Multipliers in High-Savings Economies

An economy with a high savings rate exhibits a lower marginal propensity to consume. Analyze how thi

Extreme

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 Policy: Expansionary Measures to Stimulate Aggregate Demand

This question explores how expansionary fiscal policy is used to stimulate aggregate demand during a

Easy

Fiscal Stimulus and Unintended Consequences in an Overheated Economy

Debate the potential unintended consequences of implementing expansionary fiscal policy in an econom

Extreme

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 2: Spending Multiplier Analysis

Analyze the concept of the spending multiplier in the macroeconomy and determine its numerical value

Medium

FRQ 3: Tax Multiplier Calculation

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

Medium

FRQ 4: Supply Shocks and Short-Run Aggregate Supply (SRAS)

This question focuses on the effects of supply shocks on the short-run aggregate supply curve. Part

Hard

FRQ 8: Automatic Stabilizers and Economic Stability

Examine the role of automatic stabilizers in mitigating economic fluctuations during recessions and

Easy

FRQ 8: Multiplier Process and MPC Impact on Aggregate Demand

Understanding the multiplier process is essential in assessing fiscal policy effectiveness. Part A:

Easy

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: Comparing Spending and Tax Multipliers with Numerical Example

This question explores the numerical relationships between spending and tax multipliers. Part A: If

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

GDP and Price Level Analysis

Using the table provided below, answer the following: (a) Calculate the nominal GDP for Year 2. (b)

Medium

Government Spending and Unemployment Reduction

Evaluate the role of increased government spending as a tool for reducing unemployment in an economy

Medium

Inflationary and Recessionary Gaps

This problem deals with the concepts of inflationary and recessionary gaps in the AD-AS framework.

Hard

Inflationary Gap Analysis Using the AD-AS Model

This question requires you to analyze the implications of an inflationary gap using the AD-AS framew

Medium

International Trade and Fiscal Balance: A Two-Country Model

Evaluate the effects of fiscal policy differences between two countries on international trade balan

Extreme

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 Mechanism in AD-AS

Analyze the long-run self-adjustment process in the AD-AS model that allows an economy to return to

Extreme

Mixing Fiscal Policies: Tax Cuts and Increased Spending

An economy faces an output gap of $60 billion. The government is considering a mix of tax cuts and i

Medium

Recessionary and Inflationary Gaps and Self-Adjustment Mechanisms

Examine how the economy self-adjusts to recessionary and inflationary gaps using the AD-AS framework

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

Supply-Side Policies and SRAS Shifts

Evaluate how supply-side policies, such as deregulation, affect the short-run aggregate supply (SRAS

Medium

Tax Cuts and the Tax Multiplier

Assume the government implements a tax cut of $50 billion in an economy with an MPC of 0.75 and an M

Hard

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 Financial Assets and Expected Returns

Consider a firm evaluating investment options where it can invest in a physical asset or engage in f

Medium

Bank Deposits and the Role of the Monetary Base

This question explores the distinction between bank deposits and the monetary base, and their roles

Easy

Bond Prices and Interest Rates

Bond prices and interest rates share an inverse relationship. Using the data provided and your under

Medium

Calculating Real vs. Nominal Interest Rates

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

Easy

Comparing Equity Financing and Debt Financing

Firms have options for raising funds through either equity or debt financing. Examine the following

Hard

Digital Payments and Money Demand Shift

The growing adoption of digital payment systems may influence traditional measures of money demand.

Medium

Effective Money Multiplier under Varying Conditions

The theoretical money multiplier can be affected by factors such as excess reserves and currency hol

Extreme

Equity Financing vs Debt Financing

Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of equity and debt financing for a firm facing investment

Hard

Evaluating Financial Assets: Stocks vs Bonds

A firm is considering raising funds via issuing stocks (equity financing) or bonds (debt financing).

Easy

Evaluating the Effects of Contractionary Monetary Policy

This question examines the effects of contractionary monetary policy on the money market and the bro

Medium

Excess Reserves and Bank T-Accounts

Analyze the impact of excess reserves on the bank lending process and overall money creation.

Medium

Expansionary Monetary Policy and the Money Market

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

Medium

Financial Assets and the Risk-Return Tradeoff

This question examines the risk-return tradeoff in financial investments. Answer the following parts

Medium

Financial Market Dynamics: Risk, Return and Investor Behavior

This question examines how investor behavior regarding risk and return influences financial market d

Hard

FRQ 7: Fractional Reserve Banking and Money Creation

Examine how fractional reserve banking contributes to money creation and calculate the potential imp

Medium

FRQ 11: Loanable Funds Market - Demand Shifters

Examine the determinants of the demand for loanable funds and illustrate their effects on the market

Medium

FRQ 12: Loanable Funds Market - Supply Shifters

Analyze the factors that drive changes in the supply of loanable funds and their impact on the marke

Medium

FRQ 14: Risk and Return in Financial Assets

Analyze how risk and liquidity influence the rate of return of financial assets.

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

Inflation and Its Impact on Investment Decisions

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

Hard

Inflation’s Impact on Nominal and Real Interest Rates

Inflation can significantly alter the relationship between nominal and real interest rates. Analyze

Medium

Interest Rate Determination in the Loanable Funds Market

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

Extreme

Liquidity and Investment Choices

This question investigates how liquidity considerations affect an investor’s choice among different

Medium

Liquidity and Investment Decisions

This question explores the concept of liquidity and its influence on investment choices.

Easy

Liquidity Preferences and Money Demand

This question examines the different components of money demand and how liquidity preferences affect

Medium

Loanable Funds Market and Government Deficit Spending

This question explores how an increase in government deficit spending affects the loanable funds mar

Hard

Loanable Funds Market Dynamics

Examine the loanable funds market and the factors that affect its equilibrium. Answer the following

Medium

Money Market Dynamics

Evaluate the factors that influence shifts in the money market and how the central bank might counte

Hard

Money Market Equilibrium and Monetary Policy

Analyze the money market and the effects of monetary policy changes. Answer the following parts:

Medium

Money Market Equilibrium in a Changing Economy

This question examines the concept of money market equilibrium and the effects of changes in nominal

Medium

Nominal vs Real Interest Rates: Impact Analysis

An economy has experienced varying levels of inflation and nominal interest rates over three recent

Medium

Open Market Operations and Their Impact on Money Supply

This question evaluates your understanding of how open market operations (OMOs) are used by the Fede

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 Inflation Expectations

This question focuses on how inflation expectations affect the relationship between real and nominal

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

Reserve Requirements and Economic Impact

Assess how changes in the reserve requirement affect bank lending and the broader economy.

Hard

Risk and Return in Stock versus Bond Investments

Investors must balance risk and return when choosing between stocks and bonds. Answer the following

Hard

The Impact of the Required Reserve Ratio on Money Creation

This question investigates how variations in the required reserve ratio influence the money multipli

Medium

The Role of Financial Assets in Monetary Policy

Financial assets are integral to the execution of monetary policy. Explore the following aspects:

Medium

Transaction vs. Asset Demand for Money

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

Hard
Unit 5: Long-Run Consequences of Stabilization Policies

Adjustment to a Recessionary Gap and Long-Run Equilibration

This question examines the classical adjustment mechanism from a recessionary gap back to full emplo

Medium

Aggregate Demand Shifts Across Different Regions of the SRAS Curve

Some economists argue that the effects of aggregate demand (AD) shifts depend on which region of the

Medium

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

Comparing Demand-Pull vs. Cost-Push Inflation

Inflation can arise from different sources. Demand-pull inflation occurs when an increase in aggrega

Hard

Crowding Out Effect Analysis in the Loanable Funds Market

Government borrowing to finance budget deficits can lead to a crowding out of private investment. In

Hard

Crowding Out Effect in the Loanable Funds Market

Analyze the crowding out effect that may occur when the government increases its borrowing to financ

Medium

Crowding Out: Analyzing the Loanable Funds Market

Examine the effects of government budget deficits on the loanable funds market and private investmen

Hard

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

Expansionary Fiscal Policy to Close a Recessionary Gap

The economy is currently experiencing a recessionary gap. In response, the government is considering

Medium

Fiscal Deficits, Borrowing, and the Crowding Out Effect

The government runs a significant budget deficit and finances it by borrowing funds in the loanable

Hard

Fiscal Deficits, National Debt, and Economic Growth

Examine the relationship between fiscal deficits, national debt, and long-run economic growth. (a)

Medium

Fiscal Policy and Long-Run Economic Growth

Fiscal policy not only affects short-run stabilization but can also influence long-run economic grow

Medium

Fiscal Stimulus and Short-Run Aggregate Demand

Evaluate the impact of fiscal stimulus on aggregate demand (AD) and discuss the short-run trade-offs

Medium

FRQ 1: Adjustment from Recessionary Gap: AD-AS Analysis

Analyze the adjustment process from a recessionary gap to long-run equilibrium. Explain how a leftwa

Medium

FRQ 6: Cost-Push Inflation and the Wage-Price Spiral Dynamics

Analyze the phenomena of cost-push inflation and the wage-price spiral. Use a graphical representati

Hard

FRQ 8: Stagflation – Causes and Policy Dilemmas

Analyze stagflation by discussing its causes and the policy dilemmas it presents.

Hard

FRQ 10: Government Deficit Spending and the Private Investment Response

Evaluate the impact of increased government deficit spending on the loanable funds market and its co

Medium

FRQ 13: Economic Growth Analysis – Aggregate Production Function and Productivity

Evaluate how improvements in technology and increases in capital and labor affect economic growth. U

Medium

FRQ 15: Persistent Deficit Spending – Long-Run Effects on AD and Growth

Examine the long-run economic effects of persistent deficit spending on aggregate demand and overall

Hard

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

FRQ 20: Real World Application – A Case of Fiscal Restraint in Deficit Reduction

Using a real-world example, analyze the effects of fiscal restraint aimed at reducing a budget defic

Hard

Government Infrastructure Spending and Long-Run Economic Growth

Infrastructure spending is believed to have significant effects on long-run economic growth. Analyze

Medium

Impact of Public Infrastructure Spending on Long-Run Economic Growth

Evaluate how government spending on infrastructure can influence long-run economic growth. Consider

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

Inflation Adjustment Mechanisms in the AD-AS Model

Examine the process by which an inflationary gap is corrected in the economy, and discuss the role o

Medium

Inflationary Gap and Self-Correction Mechanism

In an economy initially at full employment, a surge in government spending shifts the AD curve right

Medium

Investment Tax Credit and Its Effect on Aggregate Supply

Investment tax credits are used to stimulate capital investment and thereby shift the aggregate supp

Medium

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 Impacts of Expansionary Fiscal Policy

Assess the long-run effects of expansionary fiscal policy on economic performance, including its rol

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 and Economic Stabilization in Federal Systems

Effective monetary policy is crucial for economic stabilization, particularly when the central bank

Hard

Monetary Policy Effects on the Money Market and Investment

In an effort to stimulate economic activity, the central bank implements an expansionary monetary po

Hard

Monetary Policy for Recessionary Gap Correction

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

Medium

Short-Run Policy Effects on Long-Run Inflation and Output

Stabilization policies often have different effects in the short run versus the long run. In this qu

Extreme

Supply-Side Policies and Economic Growth

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

Medium

Supply-Side Policies and Productivity Improvements

A country implements various supply-side policies focused on technological innovation and human capi

Medium

The Role of Monetary Policy in Stabilizing Short-Run Fluctuations

Monetary policy plays a crucial role in addressing short-run economic fluctuations. In this question

Medium

The Role of the Velocity of Money in Inflation

Using the quantity theory of money, analyze the effect of an increase in the money supply on the pri

Extreme

Wage-Price Spiral and Inflation Dynamics

Analyze the wage-price spiral phenomenon and its implications for sustained inflation. Propose poten

Hard

Wage-Price Spiral and Its Impact on the Economy

The wage-price spiral can lead to a self-reinforcing cycle of rising wages and prices. Analyze the p

Hard
Unit 6: Open Economy—International Trade and Finance

Analyzing the Effects of Changing Relative Incomes on Exchange Rates

This FRQ examines how changes in relative incomes between countries can influence the exchange rate

Easy

Assessing Current and Financial Account Deficits

Explain the differences between a current account deficit and a financial account surplus, and analy

Easy

Balance of Payments Statement Calculation

This question analyzes the components of the balance of payments. Use the provided table to answer t

Medium

Capital Flows and Interest Rate Differentials

Investigate how differences in real interest rates affect international capital flows and exchange r

Hard

Central Bank Policy and Capital Flows

Discuss the influence of central bank policy on international capital flows. Address each part below

Hard

Comparative Analysis of Current and Capital Accounts

Analyze the differences between the current account and the capital account, and explain how transac

Medium

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

Currency Appreciation and Depreciation: Impact on Trade

Discuss how changes in currency values affect international trade, particularly through the mechanis

Medium

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 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

Exchange Rate Equilibrium: Solving with Supply and Demand Equations

This FRQ requires you to solve for the equilibrium exchange rate using given supply and demand funct

Hard

Fiscal and Monetary Policy Interactions: A Comparative Study

In this FRQ, you will analyze a scenario in which fiscal expansion and monetary contraction occur si

Extreme

Fiscal Policy and Exchange Rate Movements

Evaluate how expansionary fiscal policy can affect both the exchange rate and aggregate demand. Use

Medium

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

Floating Exchange Rates and Domestic Economic Policy

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a floating exchange rate system with respect to domestic

Medium

Foreign Exchange Market Equilibrium Analysis

In this FRQ, you will analyze the conditions for equilibrium in the foreign exchange market by using

Medium

Foreign Exchange Market Equilibrium and Money Supply Shifts

Examine the impact of monetary policy changes on the foreign exchange market.

Medium

Foreign Exchange Market Shifts: A Multi-step Analysis

A recent increase in foreign consumer tastes for U.S. exports, coupled with rising incomes abroad, h

Hard

FRQ 2: Exchange Rate Determinants and Currency Market Equilibrium

Exchange rates are determined by various factors including supply and demand in the foreign exchange

Medium

FRQ 3: Graphical Analysis of Tariff Impacts on the Steel Market

Tariffs are often used to protect domestic industries, but they can also create market distortions.

Medium

FRQ 6: Quota Effects on Domestic Consumption and the Trade Balance

This question examines the effects of an import quota on domestic markets and the foreign exchange m

Hard

FRQ 6: Real Interest Rate Differentials and Capital Flows

Differences in real interest rates between countries can significantly influence international capit

Hard

FRQ 8: Official Reserves Adjustment and the Balance of Payments

Official reserves are used by central banks to balance out imbalances in the current and capital acc

Medium

FRQ 10: Foreign Demand for Domestic Assets and Exchange Rate Movements

Foreign investors increasingly seek domestic assets. In this question, you will analyze how an incre

Hard

FRQ 14: Monetary Policy, Interest Rates, and Exchange Rate Transmission

Monetary policy has a direct impact on domestic interest rates, which in turn affect exchange rate d

Extreme

FRQ 19: Speculation and Forex Market Volatility

Speculative trading in the foreign exchange market can lead to increased volatility and abrupt shift

Extreme

FRQ 20: Dynamic Effects of Shifts in Net Exports on the Domestic Economy

Shifts in net exports have significant dynamic effects on the domestic economy, impacting aggregate

Extreme

Interest Rates and International Capital Flows: A Detailed Analysis

Domestic interest rate changes significantly influence international capital flows. Assess how an in

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 International Asset Flows

Discuss how expansionary monetary policy impacts domestic interest rates and subsequently influences

Hard

Official Reserves and Balance Adjustment

In this FRQ, analyze how central bank actions via the official reserves account help maintain the ov

Medium

Policy Evaluation: Tariffs, Quotas, and Trade Wars

Compare two different trade barrier tools—tariffs and quotas—and analyze their potential to trigger

Extreme

Real Interest Rate Differential and Capital Inflows

Analyze how differences in real interest rates between countries affect capital inflows and determin

Hard

Real Interest Rates and Currency Strength

Higher real interest rates tend to attract foreign investment, influencing currency appreciation. Ex

Hard

Speculation and Exchange Rate Movements

Discuss the role of speculative behavior in the foreign exchange market.

Easy

Speculation and Exchange Rate Volatility

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

Hard

Speculative Attacks and Currency Depreciation

Evaluate a scenario where speculators engage in a speculative attack on a domestic currency.

Extreme

Understanding Balance of Payments Accounts

Using the information provided about Balance of Payments (BOP) accounts, answer the following questi

Easy

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FAQWe thought you might have some questions...
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.