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  • Getting your Scores

AP English Literature Test Score Calculator

View study guides (2).

This calculator is based on the 2020 released exam with the latest scoring guidelines, such as these .

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Why is my grade curved? Once the total composite scores are calculated, Collegeboard curves them differently each year to keep consistent standards and regular pass rates, which means we can only estimate based off of previous years.

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AP Lit Score Calculator – Fast & Accurate AP Literature Tool

This tool helps you calculate your AP Literature exam score based on your test results.

AP Lit Score Calculator

How to use the ap lit score calculator.

To use this calculator, enter your Multiple Choice Score (0-55) and your scores for the three essays (each 0-6). Then, click the “Calculate” button to see your final estimated AP Literature score.

How It Calculates the Results

The calculator converts your multiple-choice and essay scores into percentages and then maps them onto a standard AP grading scale. The multiple-choice section is worth 45% of your total score, and the essay section is worth 55%. The final score is rounded to the nearest whole number.

Limitations of the Calculator

This calculator provides an estimated score and should be used for practice and preparation purposes only. It does not account for the specific scoring nuances and weightings of the actual AP Literature exam administered by the College Board.

Use Cases for This Calculator

Calculate overall ap lit score.

To calculate your overall AP Literature and Composition score, enter your multiple-choice score (out of 55) and your free-response score (out of 45). The calculator will automatically sum both scores and provide your total AP Lit score out of 100.

Predict AP Lit Exam Grade

If you want to predict the grade you might receive on the AP Literature exam, input your multiple-choice and free-response scores into the calculator. It will instantly estimate the equivalent AP grade (1-5) based on the College Board’s scoring rubric.

Track Progress Throughout the Year

Use the calculator to keep track of your progress as you prepare for the AP Lit exam. By entering your scores for different practice tests or assignments, you can monitor your improvement and set goals for your desired final AP Lit score.

Compare Multiple Test Scores

If you have taken multiple practice exams or tests, you can compare your scores by entering them into the calculator one by one. This feature allows you to see your consistency or identify areas where you may need to focus more attention.

Plan Study Sessions

Plan your study sessions effectively by using the calculator to determine how much you need to improve your scores to reach your target AP Lit score. Set achievable milestones to stay on track and adjust your study plan accordingly.

Adjust Weightage for Practice Tests

If you want to assign different weightage to your multiple-choice and free-response scores for a particular practice test, you can customize the settings in the calculator. This flexibility lets you tailor the calculation to match your study plan.

Share Results with Peers

Share your calculated AP Literature and Composition score with peers to compare progress or motivate each other. You can also discuss study strategies and tips based on the results to enhance your preparation experience together.

Estimate Final AP Lit Grade

Estimate your final grade in your AP Literature class by factoring in your calculated AP exam score along with other class assignments and participation grades. This holistic view can help you gauge your overall performance in the course.

Set Performance Improvement Goals

Set specific performance improvement goals by using the calculator’s feature to simulate different score scenarios. By visualizing the impact of score increases in real-time, you can set realistic goals and work towards achieving them effectively.

Stay Motivated and Focused

Stay motivated and focused on your AP Lit exam preparation by regularly using the calculator to track your progress. Celebrate small victories along the way and stay committed to your study routine to reach your target AP Lit score.

Other Resources and Tools

  • AP Spanish Calculator – Accurate AP Score Estimator
  • AP Chinese Score Calculator – Accurate Results
  • AP Lang Score Calculator: Easily Estimate Your Exam Performance
  • Stone Calculator Tons – Fast & Accurate Tool
  • SHSAT Score Calculator – Accurate Results

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AP English Literature (AP Lit) Score Calculator

January 14, 2024

Wondering how you’ll score on the AP Lit exam? You’ve come to the right place. With our AP Lit Score Calculator, you can start preparing for the AP Lit exam so that you’re ready and confident ahead of the big day. Our AP Lit Score Calculator allows you to review your score from each section of the AP Lit exam across multiple-choice, poetry analysis, prose fiction analysis and literary argument questions. Although the AP Lit exam isn’t known to be as difficult as the AP Lang exam (AP Lit vs AP Lang, anyone?), there’s still a significant portion of literary analysis you’ll be expected to complete within a short amount of time.

Unlike the AP Chemistry or AP Macroeconomics exams, it can seem arbitrary to measure just how exactly you’ll be graded on your understanding of college-level English literature. Where does the grading even begin? Is it syntax form or the depth and delivery of literary analysis? But you might be surprised to see that there are specific, rubric-based methodologies the AP Lit exam is graded on. According to the College Board , the AP Lit FRQ portion will be graded analytically, instead of holistically like in previous years. Lastly, through our interactive AP Lit Score Calculator, you’ll have the right tool to prepare in advance for every carefully-graded section of the AP Lit exam.

AP Lit Score Calculator

Enter scores, total composite score:, predicted ap ® score:, ap lit exam layout.

The AP English Literature and Composition Exam runs for 3 hours and 55 minutes. It consists of two sections – 55 multiple-choice questions and 3 free-response questions. The first section, containing multiple-choice questions, lasts for 60 minutes and amounts to 45% of the exam’s overall score. The second section, with the free-response questions, lasts for two hours. It makes up 55% of the rest of the exam. By using our AP Lit Score Calculator, you’ll be able to go over which section of the AP Lit exam you might want to spend some more time focusing on.

As you guessed, what you covered in your AP Lit class will be thoroughly covered in the exam. Expect to see exam questions that examine the following six core areas: Character, Setting, Structure, Narration, Figurative Language and Literary Argumentation.

AP Literature Score Calculator (Continued)

You’ll also be tested on the nine units of your AP Lit class material, spread across three groups. Can’t remember what they are? Look no further – they are: Short Fiction, Poetry and Longer Fiction or Drama . Short Fiction consists of Units 1, 4 and 7, weighing roughly anywhere between 42-49% of the exam. Poetry consists of Units 2, 5 and 8, weighing from 36-45% of the exam. Longer Fiction or Drama takes the remaining Units 3, 6 and 9, and weighs about 15-18% of the exam.

Seeing that the Short Fiction units make up the majority of the exam, why not brush up on your AP Lit books or AP Lit reading lists ? How exactly was imperialism conveyed in Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness ? What was Rakolnikov’s greatest dilemma in Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s Crime and Punishment ? Be sure to focus on your understanding of contemporary English literature or English literature from the 20th century. The AP Lit exam includes a smaller amount of English literature texts that were published before the 20th century.

Section 1: AP Lit Multiple-Choice Questions

Throughout the 55 multiple-choice questions, you’ll come across what the College Board calls “skill categories” in AP Lit. The skill categories are as follows:

1: Explain the function of character (16–20%) 2: Explain the function of setting (3–6%) 3: Explain the function of plot and structure (16–20%) 4: Explain the function of the narrator or speaker (21–26%) 5: Explain the function of word choice, imagery, and symbols (10–13%) 6: Explain the function of comparison (10–13%) 7: Develop textually substantiated arguments about interpretations of part or all of a text (10–13%)

AP Lit Score Calculator (Continued)

Each section and multiple-choice question of the AP Lit exam begins with a text of prose fiction or poetry. Here is an example of an AP Lit multiple-choice question that follows an excerpt of fiction published in 1853:

The function of the adjectives “picturesque” (line 7), “quaint” (line 12), and “amusing” (line 17) is primarily to: (A) introduce a sense of the town’s fanciful residential design (B) inject comedy into the description of the town (C) discredit the historical relevance of the town (D) define the character of the town’s leading families (E) call the supposed modernity of the town into question

Why not try a few practice tests using our AP Lit Score Calculator? You’ll then see if you’re ready for 55 of these multiple-choice questions.

Section 2: AP Lit FRQ

For each AP Lit FRQ, it is recommended that you spend about 40 minutes on each question. This will ensure that you don’t run out of time and can provide a compelling and thorough answer. As you prepare for the AP Lit FRQs using our AP Lit Score Calculator, you’ll find that the most frequently used verbs are: analyze, choose and read.

The three AP Lit FRQs are as follows: Question 1: Poetry Analysis (6 points), Question 2: Prose Fiction Analysis (6 points), Question 3: Literary Argument (6 points)

AP Lit FRQ, Question 1: In the Poetry Analysis question, there will be a passage from a poem ranging from 100 to 300 words. When assessing the AP Lit rubric, you’ll be scored on the following. 1) How well you respond to the prompt through a thesis that interprets and establishes a line of reasoning. 2) Select and use evidence to create and support your reasoning; explain the relationship of your cited evidence and original thesis; utilize fitting grammar and punctuation to form a coherent and well-supported argument.

AP Lit Exam Score Calculator (Continued)

An example of a Poetry Analysis AP Lit FRQ is:

“In the following poem ‘Plants’ by Olive Senior (published in 2005), the speaker portrays the relationships among plant life and the implied audience. Read the poem carefully. Then, in a well-written essay, analyze how Senior uses poetic elements and techniques to develop those complex relationships.”

As College Board delineates , you’ll find the following italicized parts to be consistent throughout every Poetry Analysis essay question:

In the following poem [ or excerpt from poem ] by [ author, date of publication ], the speaker [ comment on what is being addressed in the poem ]. Read the poem carefully. Then, in a well-written essay, analyze how [ author ] uses [ poetic or literary ] elements and techniques to [ convey/portray/develop a thematic, topical, or structural aspect of the poem that is complex and specific to the passage of the poem provided ].

AP Lit FRQ, Question 2: In the Prose Fiction Analysis question, you’ll find that this FRQ presents you with a passage of prose fiction ranging from 500 to 700 words. Referring back to the official AP Lit rubric, you’ll be graded based on how you: respond to the prompt through a thesis that interprets and establishes a line of reasoning; select and use evidence to create and support your reasoning; explain the relationship of your cited evidence and original thesis; utilize fitting grammar and punctuation to form a coherent and well-supported argument.

Expect to find a question like this one, which appeared previously in an AP Lit exam:

“The following excerpt is from an 1852 novel by Nathaniel Hawthorne. In this passage, two characters who have been living on the Blithedale farm—a community designed to promote an ideal of equality achieved through communal rural living—are about to part ways. Read the passage carefully. Then, in a well-written essay, analyze how Hawthorne uses literary elements and techniques to portray the narrator’s complex attitude towards Zenobia.”

Like in the Poetry Analysis FRQ, a similar prompt template is used. The italicized text changes with each passage used:

The following excerpt is from [ text and author, date of publication ]. In this passage, [ comment on what is being addressed in the passage ]. Read the passage carefully. Then, in a well-written essay, analyze how [ author ] uses literary elements and techniques to [ convey/portray/develop a thematic, topical, or structural aspect of the passage that is complex and specific to the passage provided ].

AP Lit FRQ, Question 3: In the Literary Argument question, you’ll be presented with a literary concept or idea, alongside a list of 40 works of literature. You are to choose a work of fiction from the list, or from your own reading, then analyze how the concept/idea in the question shapes your interpretation of the selected work. As we’ve seen in the previous two AP Lit FRQs, the same rubric applies here also: respond to the prompt through a thesis that interprets and establishes a line of reasoning; select and use evidence to create and support your reasoning; explain the relationship of your cited evidence and original thesis; utilize fitting grammar and punctuation to form a coherent and well-supported argument.

The Literary Argument AP Lit FRQ can be tough to imagine on your own, so take a look at this sample question:

“Many works of literature feature characters who have been given a literal or figurative gift. The gift may be an object, or it may be a quality such as uncommon beauty, significant social position, great mental or imaginative faculties, or extraordinary physical powers. Yet this gift is often also a burden or a handicap. Either from your own reading or from the list below, choose a work of fiction in which a character has been given a gift that is both an advantage and a problem. Then, in a well-written essay, analyze how the gift and its complex nature contribute to an interpretation of the work as a whole. Do not merely summarize the plot.”

A great way to prepare for this complex question is to familiarize yourself with the format of the prompt. Why not try inserting your own ideas into the italicized texts below?

[ Lead that introduces some concept or idea that students will be asked to apply to a text of their choosing. ] Either from your own reading or from the list below, choose a work of fiction in which [ some aspect of the lead is addressed ]. Then, in a well-written essay, analyze how [ that same aspect of the lead ] contributes to an interpretation of the work as a whole. Do not merely summarize the plot.

How can I get a 5 on the AP Lit exam?

It’s a question you’ve probably asked yourself for all of your other AP exams. Or one that you’re considering if you are just starting to figure out your AP class schedule . The best answer is to familiarize yourself with the AP Lit exam format, the AP Lit rubric and, especially, know how to analyze each book on those extensive AP Lit reading lists.

We strongly encourage you to utilize our AP Lit Score Calculator. Take the time you need to go through as many practice tests as you can. And if you’ve read this far, you already understand what each section of the AP Lit exam entails. Additionally, you now grasp what will be expected of you. So why not take it another step further with our AP Lit Score Calculator?

Additional Resources

In conclusion, we also wanted to suggest checking out some of our other useful calculators such as:

  • SAT Score Calculator
  • ACT Score Calculator 
  • AP Lang Score Calculator
  • AP Lit Reading List – 50 Best Books to Read
  • APUSH Score Calculator

Joanna Hong

With a BA from Pitzer College and an MA from University College London, Joanna has worked in London, Berlin, and Los Angeles covering many cultural and political issues with organizations such as Byline Media, NK News, and Free Turkey Media. A freelancer for The New York Times, her work has also appeared in Newsweek, Dazed and Confused Magazine, and The Guardian, among others. In addition, Joanna was the recipient of the 2021 PEN America Emerging Voices Fellowship in Fiction and is currently completing her first novel.

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AP English Literature Score Calculator

  • Last Updated: April 18, 2023

With AP exam dates almost upon us, it’s important for those planning on taking this exam to determine their level of preparedness by working through past AP English Literature (AP Lit) exams released by the College Board. 

To determine your readiness, our team has put together an interactive AP English Literature Score Calculator to show what AP® score you’d likely receive based on the previous year’s exam. 

AP English Literature Score Calculator

To calculate your possible AP English Literature score, use the sliders below to adjust the 1 multiple-choice section and 3 free response questions. The curve for this score calculator is based on the most recently available scoring guidelines .

Note that the scores determined by our AP Score Calculators should only be used as an approximation, and future AP English Literature exams may differ from previously administered AP Lit exams. The calculator will give you an idea whether you’re close to a potential score cutoff or within your ideal (or nonideal) target score range.

By the way, we have an AP English Language score calculator too!

Why Use Exam Strategist’s AP English Literature Score Calculator?

Exam Strategist uses only the most recent past exams and official scoring worksheets released by the College Board to give you the best estimate of your current AP Lit competency level. The score calculator was designed to help students minimize their worry about future scores by better understanding how raw scores on the AP English Literature exam are converted to the scaled 1-5 AP® scores. 

Frequently Asked Questions: AP English Literature Score Calculator

What percent is a 5 on ap english literature.

Based on the 2022 AP score distributions , only 16.9% of students received a 5. Alternatively, you would need to have earned 76% of the total available composite points on the AP Lit exam to score a 5. 

What percentage is a 4 on the AP English Literature exam?

In 2022, 27.3% of students received a 4 on the AP Lit exam. Additionally, you would have needed to correctly earn 65.3% of the total available points to earn a 4 on the AP English Literature exam. 

What is a 3 score on AP English Literature?

According to the College Board’s AP score distributions, 33.7% of students earned a 3 on the AP English Literature exam. In order to achieve a 3 on the 2022 exam, you’ll have needed to correctly answer 53.3% of the questions. 

How is AP English Literature Scored?

The multiple-choice section accounts for 45.3% of the total composite score, while the free-response sections account for 54.7%. Raw scores are scaled along a grading curve and converted to the 1-5 AP® scores.

Thanks for checking out our AP English Literature score calculator. Feel free to reach out via our contact page with any concerns or questions you may have. And best of luck on your 2023 AP English Literature exam! 

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AP® English Literature & Comp. Score Calculator

School entrance exams are required for many students to gain admittance to private schools. Students spend time learning how to maximize their scores on the exams and learn concepts and test-taking skills.

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Multiple choice score, free response question score, total composite score, predicted ap® score, find out how we can help you., become a part of the zinkerz team and rise to your potencial, helpful information, what is a good ap® english literature & composition score.

AP® scores exist on a scale of 1-5, with 5 being the best score you can get on an exam. Any AP® score greater than or equal to a 3 constitutes “passing,” which here just means that it becomes eligible for college credit (although each school will have different policies on what scores they accept and what those exams can be applied towards in their common core curriculum). So, as far as passing goes, a 3 is sufficient.

Even though a 3, a 4, and a 5 are all proficient, there is still a rough correlation between each grade and a letter one, in the same way that a C and an A are both passing a class, but one may demonstrate a more firm mastery of the material than the other. As per the College Board , a 5 corresponds to an A+ or an A, a 4 to a A-, B+, or B, and a 3 to a B-, C+, or C, all of which they describe as “qualified.” A C sounds bad, but know that for 2023’s score distributions on the year’s exam, only 16.9% of students scored a 5, so don’t be harsh on yourself if you don’t get one, even though we’ll try to help you get there!

The exams are meant to be challenging and represent entry-level college work, and the fact that you’re taking them at all says something about your commitment to high-quality education and college readiness!

"> "> How should I understand my AP® English Literature & Composition Score if I don’t get a 3?

Any AP® score is useful, even if it isn’t “good,” which is a subjective term. There is evidence to suggest that even an AP® score of a 1 or 2, which is not enough to earn college credit, still helps students feel prepared for their classes when they begin college compared to students who do not engage in the AP® program. Students who complete AP® exams are also more likely to attend college in general, and are more likely to graduate on time (depending on the school, anywhere from 4-6 years).

While it is true that with an AP® score of a 1 or a 2 you can’t receive college credit, your experience in taking the course has given you a good glimpse of what intro-level college work will require of you, and it may even give you a leg up over your peers when you start your college journey! The skills of time management, good studying habits, and discipline you build up leading up to an AP® exam will help you in college regardless of what score you get.

Additionally, while many of you undoubtedly have some idea of what you want to study in college, some of you do not yet, and even for those of you who do, you never know when the knowledge you gained in an AP® course will help you understand a problem or context for something.

Why should I use this AP® English Literature & Composition calculator?

Firstly, we understand that the significance of an AP® score goes beyond a simple numeric value. With our calculator, you get more than just a number; you get insights into your performance based on each section of the AP® English Literature & Composition exam, helping you grasp your strengths and areas for improvement. Our tool provides an adaptive analysis of your scores, offering detailed breakdowns. Whether you’re aiming for the perfect 5 or navigating the challenges of a 1 or 2, our calculator is designed to help you understand the nuances of your performance and how to understand your score as well.

Our calculator is designed to provide valuable insights into your exam preparation. It’s not just about the final result; it’s about the journey. In addition to Zinkerz courses, this score calculator can help you understand, for instance, how much better you would need to do on a section to boost your score, or which areas you can afford to get one or two wrong on if you’re already doing well!

Why choose Zinkerz’ Score Calculator? Because we’re not just about the numbers; we’re about your growth, understanding, and readiness for the academic road ahead. When combined with our classes and curriculum, this Calculator is your gateway to mastering the art of AP® exam success. Use it to make your AP® journey truly worthwhile!

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ap lit essay calculator

AP® English Literature Scoring Guide

If you decide to take AP® English Literature and Composition, it is important to understand how the exam is scored. The AP English Literature and Composition exam assesses students' critical reading abilities as well as their understanding of a wide range of literary works across genres and periods.

The test is graded on a scale of 1 to 5 , with 3 considered the passing score by most colleges. Students who score a 3 or higher on the exam may be eligible for college credit and/or placement, depending on the regulations of the institution or university where they want to enroll. If you are taking the AP Lit exam and would like to know how it’s scored, then you’re on the right page! This article is your guide to the AP English Literature and Composition scoring structure and guidelines.

How Is the AP English Literature Exam Scored?

There are two types of questions on the AP English Literature and Composition exam: multiple-choice (MCQ) and free-response (FRQ). Students have three hours to complete the entire exam. The multiple-choice component accounts for 45 percent of the exam's total score, whereas the free-response section accounts for 55 percent . The scores for the MCQ and FRQ sections are combined to get the final composite score.

It’s helpful to note that anything less than a 3 may not be considered by any college admissions for college credit or placement. Now let's look at each section and understand the scoring pattern:

Section I: MCQ

There are 55 multiple-choice questions to answer, and students have one hour to do so. Each MCQ has five answer-choices. There are no penalties for incorrect responses or the questions you leave blank. Therefore, if you are unsure about an answer, it’s best to make a guess! Each correct answer is worth about 1 point and the final score for this section is calculated by adding up all the points earned for those answers.

Section II: FRQ

Students have two hours to answer three free-response questions for that section of the exam. Each essay is assigned a point value ranging from 0 to 6 and is is graded by two individual AP readers. If they both reach the same point value while grading, the score provided is final. If they do not agree, a third reader makes the final decision.

According to the College Board®, each essay is graded as a whole, based on substance, style, and mechanics. Each essay's scores are multiplied by 3.055, then combined together to produce a raw score.

Definition and visual comparison of claim vs. qualification

AP English Literature and Composition Scoring Guidelines & Rubrics

The AP Lit FRQs are graded according to an analytical rubric instead of a holistic one. Below is a tabular format of the scoring guideline and rubric, as published by the College Board:

Reporting Category Points Scoring Criteria

Row A: Thesis
0-1 pts. : If the theses are inadequate: simply the prompt is reiterated, summaries are without coherent claims, or the prompt is not answered. : Your answer offers a reasonable interpretation of the passage.
Row B: Evidence and Commentary 0-4 pts. : Simply the prompt is reiterated. : General evidence is provided but it does not support the claim. : Specific and relevant evidence is provided but it does not support the claim. : Specific evidence that supports the claim is provided. At Least one of the literary elements or techniques is explained. : Specific evidence that supports the claim is provided. Multiple literary elements or techniques are explained.
Row C: Sophistication 0-1 pts.
FRQ Question1 FRQ Question2 FRQ Question3 Points
Row A Respond to the prompt with a thesis that presents a defensible interpretation of the poem. Respond to the prompt with a thesis that presents a defensible interpretation of the passage. Respond to the prompt with a thesis that presents a defensible interpretation of the selected work. 1
Row B Provide evidence and commentary Provide evidence and commentary Provide evidence and commentary 1 to 4
Demonstrate sophistication of thought and/or develop a complex literary argument. Demonstrate sophistication of thought and/or develop a complex literary argument. Demonstrate sophistication of thought and/or develop a complex literary argument. 1

AP English Literature Scoring Table

The final results will not include your composite score or even the individual score for each section of the exam. You will only see your AP scaled score ranging from 1 to 5. Each score represents a certain degree of performance. Colleges use these results to determine who is eligible for college credit and placement. The table below shows the prospective college grade equivalent for AP scores:

AP Exam Score College Grade Equivalent Qualification
5 A+ or A Extremely well qualified
4 A-, B+, or B Very well qualified
3 B-, C+, or C Qualified
2 Possibly Qualified
1 No recommendation

As you may have already realized, most institutions do not consider scores below 3 when making admissions decisions. If a student wants to get college credit and/or advanced placement based on their AP English Literature exam score, they typically must earn a score of 3 or higher. Always double-check the minimum requirements of the colleges you want to apply to, since some schools require a higher score for college credit.

AP English Literature Score Distribution

Thousands of students from all around the world take the AP English Literature exam each year. In May 2023 , 356,043 students took the exam, with over 274,836 having received a score of 3 or higher . That's about 77.2% of those who took the exam. Let's take a peek at the AP English Literature score distributions for the last four years, from 2019 to 2023, to gauge its success rates in the past. This may help you decide whether or not to take AP Literature.


Score
2023 2022 2021 2020 2019
No. of Students % of Students No. of Students % of Students No. of Students % of Students No. of Students % of Students No. of Students % of Students
5 53,092 14.9% 57,436 16.9% 15,846 4.9% 31,030 9.3% 23,508 6.2%
4 98,970 27.8% 92,549 27.3% 38,505 12.0% 57,642 17.3% 59,648 15.7%
3 122,774 34.5% 114,510 33.7% 86,502 26.9% 111,903 33.5% 105,635 27.8%
2 51,129 14.4% 47,956 14.1% 119,771 37.3% 92,700 27.8% 130,358 34.3%
1 30,078 8.4% 26,950 7.9% 60,405 18.8% 40,705 12.2% 60,987 16.0%
77.2% 77.9% 43.8% 60.1% 49.7%

Based on data from the last five AP exams, AP English Literature and Composition’s passing rate has hovered around 62%, with a dip in scores in 2019 through 2021. Those particular years' lower success rates were likely the result of the COVID-19 pandemic, which greatly impacted education systems around the world. However, the passing rates did bounce back in 2022, when students performed with an impressive success rate of nearly 78%.

The average passing rates for AP Lit indicate two things: First, performing well in this course and exam requires grit, dedication, and disciplined study habits. Second, if you practice hard with the right study tools, you, too, can earn a score of 3 or above. This is where UWorld’s practice tests and study tools can help. UWorld's online AP English Literature and Composition practice exam reinforces the concepts that are bound to appear on the exam. Online study tools can also track your progress and build the confidence you need on test day, ensuring nothing catches you by surprise.

Defining connotation and presenting examples of the different types through visuals.

AP English Literature Minimum Score Requirements for College Credits

As you may already know, most institutions require a minimum score of 3 to qualify for college credit and placement. Completing the course but skipping the exam can still result in a transcript that looks appealing to college admissions committees.

Here is a list of some universities and their minimum AP English Literature criteria for course credits.

Institution AP Score AP Recognition Equivalent Course Credits
5 Credit - 8 credits
4/5 Credit English 1A 4 semester units
5 English 1A - 1B 5.3 semester units
5 Credit ENGL 114, ENGL 115 1 credit
5 Credit
+
Placement
- 1 credit
5 Credit
+
Placement
- 3 credits
4/5 Credit
+
Placement
ENGCOMP 3 8 credits
3 - 8 credits
5 Credit
+
Placement
- 100 units general
elective credit
4/5 Credit
+
Placement
- 3 credits

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good ap english literature score.

The College Board considers a score of 3 or higher on an AP exam as qualified. However, they regard scores of 4 or 5 as truly impressive AP scores.

What is the average AP English Literature score?

The average AP English Literature score for 2023 was 3.26 . Based on historical data (2019-2022), the AP English Lit scores have averaged between 2.62 to 3.31.

What percentage is a 5 on the AP Lit exam?

Why are ap english literature scores curved.

Every year, the College Board curves its exams (including AP English Literature) for consistency. As a result, they also adjust their scoring rules to reflect the intensity of college-level courses.

AP English Literature scores are curved for grading uniformity across both paper-based and digital exams. This all but guarantees that AP exam scores remain comparable college-level grades.

How do I get a 5 on AP English Literature?

There is no secret to getting a 5 in AP English Literature. Applied learning, solid study habits, and purposeful practice are the only time-tested ways of getting a 5 on your exam. Strong critical reading, literary analysis, and essay writing abilities are the core skills you need to master for this exam.

When were the AP English Literature scores released in 2023?

The 2023 exam results were released in July 2023 . Your College Board account allows you to check your results online.

How many people get a perfect score in AP English Literature?

Students earn a perfect score when they correctly answer all of the questions on both portions of the exam. Only three test-takers scored a perfect 5 on the 2021 exam by earning all 120 points possible across all essays and questions.

Definition of transition words.

  • (2023, October). 2023 AP Score Distributions . College Board. https://apstudents.collegeboard.org/about-ap-scores/score-distributions
  • (2023, October). STUDENT SCORE DISTRIBUTIONS* AP Exams - May 2023 . College Board. https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/ap-score-distributions-by-subject-2023.pdf
  • (2022, October). STUDENT SCORE DISTRIBUTIONS* AP Exams - May 2022 . College Board. https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/ap-score-distributions-by-subject-2022.pdf
  • (2021, October). STUDENT SCORE DISTRIBUTIONS* AP Exams - May 2021 . College Board. https://reports.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/2021-ap-student-score-distributions_1.pdf
  • (2020, October). STUDENT SCORE DISTRIBUTIONS* AP Exams - May 2020 . College Board. https://reports.collegeboard.org/media/pdf/Student-Score-Distributions-2020_1.pdf
  • (2019, October). STUDENT SCORE DISTRIBUTIONS* AP Exams - May 2019 . College Board. https://secure-media.collegeboard.org/digitalServices/pdf/research/2019/Student-Score-Distributions-2019.pdf
  • Packer, T. (2021, July 13). AP English Literature and Composition: 2021 Results . College Board All Access. https://allaccess.collegeboard.org/ap-english-literature-and-composition-2021-results

Read More About the AP English Literature

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AP English Literature and Composition Score Calculator

Ap english literature and composition score scale.

Understanding how your raw scores translate into the AP course grade scale is crucial for planning your study and knowing what to aim for on the exam day. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the score scale 📊:

Raw Score RangeAP ScoreTypical Equivalent College Course Grade
92-1505A
76-914B
50-753C
30-492D
0-291F

This table shows the range of raw scores needed to achieve a particular AP score, where a 5 is the highest score, indicating extremely well understanding of the material, and a 1 where there’s significant room for improvement.

FAQs Section

Here are some of the most common questions about the AP English Literature and Composition exam grading and scoring system:

What is the difference between HL and SL in the AP English Literature exam?

The AP exams don’t specifically have ‘Higher Level (HL)’ and ‘Standard Level (SL)’ as those are part of the IB (International Baccalaureate) system. However, the AP English Literature exam is considered to be at a higher level due to its rigorous curriculum and in-depth analytical requirements.

How is the essay section scored in the AP English Literature exam?

The essay section is scored by experienced and trained high school and college teachers. Each essay is scored on a scale from 0 to 9, and these scores are then converted into the AP exam’s 1-5 scale.

Do colleges care about AP scores?

Yes, many colleges in the U.S. and internationally recognize AP scores for college credit, advanced placement, or both, especially scores of 3 or higher. Scoring well can significantly enhance your college application!

Can I retake the AP English Literature exam if I’m not happy with my score?

Absolutely! AP exams are offered once a year, but you can retake them in subsequent years if you wish to improve your score. Just be sure to prepare thoroughly to increase your chances of scoring higher. 📚✨

I hope this clears up some of your doubts! Keep studying hard, and good luck on your exam journey! 🌟

Home » All Calculators » Education Resources » Albert Ap Lit Calculator

Albert Ap Lit Calculator

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The Albert AP Lit Calculator is a handy tool designed to estimate your AP English Literature and Composition exam score. This calculator helps students predict their final AP score based on their performance in the multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and free-response questions (FRQs). Understanding how to use this calculator can give you a better idea of where you stand and what areas you might need to improve.

Purpose and Functionality

The main purpose of the Albert AP Lit Calculator is to provide a quick and easy way to estimate your AP score. It takes into account:

  • Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) : These questions make up 45% of your total score.
  • Free-Response Questions (FRQs) : These essays make up 55% of your total score.

By inputting the number of correct MCQs and the scores for each FRQ, the calculator will give you an estimated total score and an AP score on a scale of 1 to 5.

To use the calculator, you need to provide:

  • Number of Correct MCQs : The number of multiple-choice questions you answered correctly out of 55.
  • FRQ Scores : The scores you received for each of the three free-response questions, each scored on a scale of 0 to 6.

Calculation Steps

Step 1: calculate mcq score.

  • MCQ Raw Score :MCQ Raw Score=Number of Correct MCQsMCQ Raw Score=Number of Correct MCQs
  • MCQ Weighted Score :MCQ Weighted Score=MCQ Raw Score×0.8181MCQ Weighted Score=MCQ Raw Score×0.8181

Step 2: Calculate FRQ Score

  • FRQ Raw Score :FRQ Raw Score=FRQ1 Score+FRQ2 Score+FRQ3 ScoreFRQ Raw Score=FRQ1 Score+FRQ2 Score+FRQ3 Score
  • FRQ Weighted Score :FRQ Weighted Score=FRQ Raw Score×3.0556FRQ Weighted Score=FRQ Raw Score×3.0556

Step 3: Calculate Total Score

  • Total Score :Total Score=MCQ Weighted Score+FRQ Weighted ScoreTotal Score=MCQ Weighted Score+FRQ Weighted Score

Step 4: Estimate AP Score

Use the total score to estimate the AP score based on the following scale:

  • 5 : 100-150

Example Calculation

Let’s go through an example calculation for a student who answered 40 MCQs correctly and received scores of 4, 5, and 6 on the three FRQs.

Calculate MCQ Score

  • MCQ Raw Score :MCQ Raw Score=40MCQ Raw Score=40
  • MCQ Weighted Score :40×0.8181=32.72440×0.8181=32.724

Calculate FRQ Score

  • FRQ Raw Score :4+5+6=154+5+6=15
  • FRQ Weighted Score :15×3.0556=45.83415×3.0556=45.834

Calculate Total Score

  • Total Score :32.724+45.834=78.55832.724+45.834=78.558

Estimate AP Score

A total score of 78.558 corresponds to an estimated AP score of 3 .

Relevant Information Table

Correct MCQs40
FRQ1 Score4
FRQ2 Score5
FRQ3 Score6
MCQ Weighted Score32.724
FRQ Weighted Score45.834
78.558
3

The Albert AP Lit Calculator is a valuable tool for students preparing for the AP English Literature and Composition exam. By providing a clear estimate of your potential score, it helps you understand your strengths and areas for improvement. With this calculator, you can better plan your study strategy and aim for a higher score on the actual exam.

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The Ultimate Guide to Acing the AP English Literature and Composition Exam

ap lit essay calculator

By Eric Eng

ap lit essay calculator

For high school students who are looking to expand their knowledge and increase their chances of getting accepted to some of the world’s top colleges and universities , AP courses such as the AP English Literature and English Composition Exam have always been an incredible option.

Preparing for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies and study techniques, you can set yourself up for success. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the exam, from understanding its importance to tips for test day and post-exam advice. Let’s dive in!

What is the AP English Literature and Composition Exam?

ap lit essay calculator

The AP English Literature and Composition Exam is a standardized test administered by the College Board. It is designed to assess a student’s understanding and analysis of various forms of literature. This exam is typically taken by high school students who have completed an advanced English course. It consists of both multiple-choice questions and free-response prompts that require critical thinking and literary analysis skills.

Why is the AP English Literature and Composition Exam important?

The AP English Literature and Composition Exam carries significant weight regarding college admissions and credit. Many colleges and universities grant credit or advanced placement to students who achieve a high score on the exam. This means that by performing well on the exam, you can potentially save time and money by earning college credits before even stepping foot on campus.

However, the importance of the AP English Literature and Composition Exam goes beyond just college credit. Excelling in this exam demonstrates your ability to critically analyze complex texts, which is a valuable skill for any major or career path that involves reading and interpreting literature.

ap lit essay calculator

By studying for and taking the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, you are not only preparing yourself for success in college but also developing skills that will benefit you throughout your life. The exam requires you to closely read and analyze various literary works, ranging from classic novels to contemporary poetry. This process of close reading and analysis helps you develop a deeper understanding of the texts and the ability to interpret and evaluate their themes, characters, and literary techniques.

Moreover, the exam also assesses your ability to write effectively about literature. You will be asked to write essays that analyze and interpret specific passages or entire works. This requires you to not only have a strong command of the English language but also to be able to articulate your thoughts and ideas in a clear and coherent manner.

Preparing for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam involves not only reading and analyzing a wide range of literary works but also practicing your writing skills. Through practice essays and timed writing exercises, you can hone your ability to craft well-structured and persuasive arguments about literature.

Furthermore, the exam provides an opportunity for you to showcase your passion for literature and your ability to engage with complex texts. By performing well on the exam, you demonstrate to college admissions officers and potential employers that you have the skills and dedication necessary to succeed in a rigorous academic environment.

Ultimately, the AP English Literature and Composition Exam is important because it not only opens doors to college credit and advanced placement, but also helps you develop critical thinking, reading, and writing skills that are essential for success in college and beyond. So, whether you aspire to major in English or pursue a different field altogether, taking the AP English Literature and Composition Exam can be a valuable and rewarding experience.

What can students expect to cover in the AP English Literature and Composition Exam?

The AP English Literature and English Composition Exam and the course teach and challenge students to learn how to read carefully and master the art of critical analysis in fictional literature, which ultimately leads to a much deeper understanding of how some of the English language’s most famous and impactful writers have brought profound meaning, enjoyment, and impact to readers.

Students will also learn about the many different structures, styles, themes, and elements of literature and English. In the process, they will become accomplished and advanced writers as well.

While there is not a required reading list to score a perfect 5 out 5 on the AP English Literature and English Composition Exam, there are several authors that the College Board has provided in previous AP Literature and English Composition course descriptions.

Some of the most common works that are studied in the course include:

  • Great Expectations
  • The Scarlett Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne
  • The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
  • Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
  • The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
  • East of Eden by John Steinbeck
  • 1984 by George Orwell
  • Catch-22 by Joseph Heller
  • Animal Farm by George Orwell
  • Fahrenheit 451 Ray Bradbury
  • One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest by Ken Kesey
  • Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison
  • Beloved by Toni Morrison
  • King Lear by William Shakespeare
  • Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad
  • The Portrait of a Lady by Henry James
  • Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte
  • Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
  • To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
  • A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man by James Joyce

AP Courses Prep Books for students to study

Students should not expect to have to read all of these books, and technically, none are required to take the AP English Literature and English Composition Exam, but if enrolled in the course at school, students will read several of these books as a part of their coursework.

What is on the AP English Literature and Composition Exam?

The AP English Literature and Composition curriculum consists of nine units that are organized in a logical sequence. This sequence has been developed through feedback from educators, as well as analysis of high school and college courses and textbooks. The units in this course scaffold skills and knowledge through three genre-based, recurring units. The course framework provides a description of what students should know and be able to do to qualify for college credit or placement.

The nine units in the AP English Literature and Composition curriculum are as follows:

  • Short Fiction
  • Longer Fiction or Drama

The exam weighting for the multiple-choice section is as follows:

Units 1, 4, and 7: Short Fiction 42%–49%
Units 2, 5, and 8: Poetry 36%–45%
Units 3, 6, and 9: Longer Fiction or Drama 15%–18%

The AP English Literature and Composition framework included in the course and exam description outlines distinct skills that students should practice throughout the year—skills that will help them learn to read texts critically. The College Board has identified the following skills as major components of the course:

Explain the function of character. 16%–20%
Explain the function of setting. 3%–6%
Explain the function of plot and structure. 16%–20%
Explain the function of the narrator or speaker. 21%–26%
Explain the function of word choice, imagery, and symbols. 10%–13%
Explain the function of comparison. 10%–13%
Develop textually substantiated arguments about interpretations of a part or all of a text. 10%–13%

How long is the AP English Literature and Composition Exam?

The AP English Literature and Composition exam is 3 hours long and consists of two sections: multiple-choice and free-response. The multiple-choice section is worth 45% of the exam score and consists of 55 questions that students have 1 hour to complete. The free-response section is worth 55% of the exam score and consists of 3 questions that students have 2 hours to complete.

Format of the AP English Literature and Composition Exam

The exciting thing about every AP exam is that the content of the exam is not the only thing that tests the students. The format of each AP exam is also something that the students who are most determined to succeed and score a perfect 5 out of 5 also study and prepare for.

That is the case for the AP English Literature and English Composition Exam, which is one of the longer AP exams available. In all, the exam is made up of two different sections. The first section is the multiple-choice section, while the second section is a free-response.

Let AdmissionSight break down what to expect in both sections for you!

Multiple Choice

The first section of the AP English Literature and English Composition Exam will include 55 total multiple-choice questions, and every student will get one hour to complete the entire team. The questions are grouped up into 5 sets of questions that will include anywhere from 8 to 13 questions that are linked to a single bit of poetry or prose writing.

The purpose of the multiple-choice portion of the AP English Literature and English Composition Exam is to test the student’s ability to analyze and deconstruct English and literature in five different ways. They are as follows:

Understand and break down word choice, comparisons, and figurative language : These questions test a student’s ability to answer questions related to a word’s meaning or the meaning of an entire phrase. Students will also be asked how specific terms can impact the meaning of the rest of a more significant sentence. Finally, students will need to be able to understand and identify the figurative language within a sentence .

Understand the theme of a poem or prose passage : Students will be expected to be able to summarize and explain what a given excerpt from a poem or prose passage is saying. Whether it be about love, conflict, human nature, and more. These can be quite varied and will test the student’s ability to analyze literature at a deep level .

Explain and reformulate selected lines from a passage : In these types of multiple-choice questions, students will be asked to explain and paraphrase a passage that is provided to them. This will test their ability to understand both basic and complex styles of writing that may rely heavily on metaphor .

Explain the function of multiple different factors regarding a poem or prose passage : In these types of questions, students will be asked to explain the function of many different factors including the narrator or speaker, characters, structure of plot and story, symbolism and motif, and parts of speech, verb forms, and poetic rhythm/meters. Students must be able to analyze and break down the narrator’s ability to control perspective and emphasize important details to impact the reader’s experience.

They must also understand how characters allow readers to explore many different lessons within great works of literature such as values, belief systems, biases, societal norms, and more. Additionally, students must be able to understand what story the author is intending to tell based on the arrangement of the work including text, sequence, and how these two interact to impact how the work is understood and interpreted. Finally, students must be able to accurately describe the purpose of symbolism and use of motif within works of literature. They will also be expected to identify technical aspects of speech and explain the different aspects of poetic meter.

An unidentified female student writing her personal growth essay

Free Response

Following the multiple-choice section of the AP English Literature and English Composition Exam, students will then dive into the final section of the exam . A two-hour trial in which they will be asked to read prompts and answer three questions related to those prompts.

The prompts that students will be expected to answer include:

  • A deep literary analysis of a poetic work
  • A deep literary analysis of a work of prose fiction or play
  • A deep analysis in which the student is able to examine a specific issue, idea, concept, element, or literary work that the student themselves selects.

One of the most exciting aspects of the AP English Literature and English Composition Exam is that this section is graded by college and AP lit teachers who follow a standardized rubric. This means that, to a certain extent, the grading of the free-response section is subjective. Of course, the standardized grading rubric has been created to take as much subjectivity out of the grading process as possible, however.

Below are sample questions and answers were taken from an official AP English Literature and English Composition Exam:

samples from AP English Literature and Composition exam

AP English Literature and Composition Scoring Breakdown

The AP English Literature and Composition Exam is scored on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest score. The multiple-choice section accounts for 45% of your overall score, while the free-response section makes up the remaining 55%. In the free-response section, you will be scored based on your understanding of the prompt, your analysis and interpretation of the text, your use of evidence and textual support, and your overall writing skills.

The scoring process involves a careful evaluation of each essay, taking into consideration the depth of analysis, the clarity of expression, and the coherence of the argument. Scorers look for essays that demonstrate a strong command of the English language, a sophisticated understanding of literary concepts, and a clear and logical organization of ideas. They also value originality and creativity, rewarding students who offer unique perspectives and interpretations.

The scoring process is rigorous and impartial, ensuring that each student’s work is evaluated fairly and accurately.

How hard is the AP English Literature and Composition exam?

The difficulty level of the AP English Literature and Composition Exam can vary from student to student. However, it is widely regarded as one of the more challenging AP exams due to the complex analysis and critical thinking skills required. The exam pushes students to think beyond surface-level interpretations and encourages them to explore the deeper meanings and implications of literary works.

To succeed in this exam, it is crucial to have a deep understanding of literary techniques, genres, and various literary works. This requires extensive reading and analysis of a wide range of texts, including classic novels, plays, and poems. Students must develop the ability to identify and analyze literary devices, such as metaphor, symbolism, and irony, and understand how these devices contribute to the overall meaning and impact of a work.

Adequate preparation and practice can greatly improve your chances of acing the exam. This includes reading and annotating texts, practicing close reading and analysis, and honing your essay writing skills. It is also beneficial to engage in discussions and participate in literature-focused activities, such as book clubs or literary analysis workshops. By immersing yourself in the world of literature and actively engaging with the texts, you can develop the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the AP English Literature and Composition Exam.

How to study for the AP English Literature and Composition exam

Now that you have a basic understanding of the format of the exam itself let’s break down the very best ways in which you can prepare for the exam at home. Whether you are taking the course at school or are self-studying for the exam, here are some of the best tips we at AdmissionSight have found.

Analyze your ability and understanding

The very first step the excelling at nearly every AP exam is to first take a practice version of the exam to see where you currently stand. There are some fantastic options where you can find great examples of sample multiple-choice and free-response questions. Additionally, you will be able to find official examples of the AP English Literature and English Composition Exam from previous school years that you can use to test your ability.

From there, you will want to identify the areas of the exam that you are already strong at, as well as remember the places that you need to work on. The best way to do this is to take the exam and then compare your answers to the answer key that is provided with the sample or past exam that you have used. This will not only serve as a way to identify places that need work but also help serve as a valuable learning experience for you.

Mastering the material

Unlike many AP exams, the AP English Literature and English Composition Exam does not allow a person to rely on memorizing equations that can help students get to the correct answer. Instead, students will have to train themselves to master the material and the lessons of the English language to approach the exam with as much knowledge and confidence as possible. There are practices that students can carry out throughout the studying process in order to improve their chances of earning that elusive 5 out of 5 scores.

The first way to improve your chances is to make sure that you are behaving as an active, critical reader when you are reading books, plays, and poems. Treat everything you read like an opportunity to sharpen your essential reading and thinking ability so that it is almost second nature by the time the exam arrives.

You will also want to write a lot. According to the College Board, the goal for all students taking the AP English Literature and English Composition Exam is to become a “practiced, logical, clear, and honest” writer. To succeed on the exam, you will be able to map out your ideas and arguments ahead of time so that you can get to writing and mapping out your introductory paragraph and thesis as clearly as possible before defending your statement. Also, if you feel like you may need to, make sure that you are testing yourself on grammar, vocabulary, correct sentence structure, and more.

If you are looking for resources that you should use to ensure you are getting the most out of your critical reading and writing practice, don’t hesitate to purchase and refer to some of the most popular study guides on the market. Similarly, there are also many online resources and even smartphone apps that you can use to study while you are on the go.

Return to practice tests

As the exam day approaches, you will want to set aside the studying material and instead focus heavily on practicing questions that are in the format of questions that you may very well see on the actual day of the exam.

The best resources for multiple-choice questions are the study guides that you have. Before you purchase any study guide, make sure that it comes with an ample amount of sample questions that you can use to test your growing knowledge and skills.

When you are reviewing your answers by cross-referencing with the key that is provided, make sure that you are keeping track of the kinds of questions or topics that seem to get in your way. That way, you will know what information you need to put extra emphasis on as you continue to study.

With that being said, make sure that you do not end up ignoring the topics that you are comfortable with. You do not want any of your strengths to become a weakness simply because you stop studying them. When it comes to practicing for the free-response section of the exam, make sure that you are focusing heavily on your writing skills and making sure that you can form cohesive and clear-to-understand arguments and ideas within your writing. It is your job to make sure that your essay is excellent and will earn excellent marks from the college or AP Lit professor who is grading your specific exam.

Another great way to improve your chances of getting a great score is to understand that standardized scoring. , each free-response essay is graded on a scale from 0 to 6 points. Points are awarded for three elements of the response essay: Thesis, Evidence and Commentary, and Sophistication. Gaining a deep understanding of what earns top scores in each section will give you the knowledge you need to construct your free-response answer in the best way possible.

To win the International Math Olympiad, the US team trained with its rivals

Take another full practice exam

As the exam day nears, you will want to make sure that you are not only taking sample questions but taking the time necessary to take a full sample exam. Not only that, but you will want to be sure that you are timing yourself using the time you will get on the day of the exam. This will allow you to get used to how to manage your time in both sections so that you can answer all of the questions to the very best of your ability.

Test-taking Tips on the Day of Exam

On the day of the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, it is essential to be well-prepared and focused. Here are some tips to help you perform your best:

First and foremost, make sure you have all the necessary materials for the exam. Double-check that you have your identification, pencils, erasers, and any other required items. Being prepared with the right tools will give you peace of mind and prevent any last-minute stress.

Next, it’s crucial to get a good night’s sleep. Adequate rest is essential for your brain to function optimally. Aim for at least eight hours of sleep the night before the exam. This will ensure that you are well-rested and able to stay alert and focused throughout the test.

In addition to a good night’s sleep, starting your day with a nutritious meal is equally important. Fueling your brain with a healthy breakfast will provide you with the energy you need to tackle the challenging questions that await you. Choose foods that are rich in protein, whole grains, and fruits to give your brain the nutrients it needs to perform at its best.

Before heading to the exam, take a few minutes to review key literary devices. Quickly revisit common literary techniques such as simile, metaphor, personification, and symbolism. This quick refresher will help refresh your memory and ensure that you can identify and analyze these devices effectively during the exam.

Once you begin the exam, it’s crucial to read each question carefully. Pay close attention to the wording of each question to avoid misinterpretation. Take your time to fully understand what the question is asking before formulating your response. This will help you provide accurate and concise answers that address the question’s requirements.

Time management is another critical aspect of test-taking. Pace yourself during the exam to ensure that you have enough time to complete all sections. Allocate a specific amount of time for each question or section, and stick to your plan. Avoid spending too much time on one question, as it may cause you to rush through the remaining questions. Remember, it’s better to answer all questions to the best of your ability than to leave some unanswered due to time constraints.

Lastly, it’s essential to stay calm and confident throughout the exam. Trust in your preparation and believe in your abilities. Remember that you have spent countless hours studying and preparing for this moment. Trust that your hard work will pay off and that you are capable of performing well. Take deep breaths, stay focused, and approach each question with confidence.

When is the AP English Literature and Composition Exam in 2024?

The exam will take place on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at 8:00 am local time. For a complete list of the 2024 AP Exam dates, here’s a complete list:

United States Government and Politics Art History

Chemistry

Human Geography

Microeconomics

Seminar

Statistics

English Literature and Composition Comparative Government and Politics

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Chinese Language and Culture

Environmental Science

Psychology

European History

United States History

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Spanish Literature and Culture

Calculus AB

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Italian Language and Culture

Precalculus

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French Language and Culture

World History: Modern

Computer Science Principles

Music Theory

Spanish Language and Culture Biology

Japanese Language and Culture

German Language and Culture

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Latin

Physics 2: Algebra-Based

When do AP scores come out?

AP scores are typically released in early to mid-July of the year the exams were taken. The exact release date may vary slightly from year to year, but students who took their AP exams in May can generally expect their scores to become available.

If you are waiting for your AP scores, you can check for updates on the College Board’s official AP scores website. They will also send you an email notification when your scores are added to your score report. If you haven’t received your scores by mid-August, it’s recommended to contact AP Services for Students for assistance.

Post-Exam Tips

After completing the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, it is essential to reflect on your performance and take necessary steps for improvement or celebration. Here are some post-exam tips:

  • Assess your performance: Take some time to evaluate how well you think you did on the exam and what areas you could improve in.
  • Review your essays: Read through your essays and identify areas where you could have provided stronger analysis or improved your writing.
  • Celebrate your accomplishments: Regardless of your score, acknowledge your hard work and dedication to the subject.
  • Continue building your skills: Keep reading and analyzing literature to further enhance your literary analysis skills.
  • Seek feedback: If possible, ask your teacher or peers for feedback on your essays to gain insights for future improvement.
  • Set new goals: Whether you plan to take additional English courses or pursue literature in higher education, set new goals to continue your literary journey.

After the intensity of the AP English Literature and Composition Exam, it is natural to feel a mix of emotions. You may feel relieved that the exam is over, anxious about your performance, or even a sense of accomplishment for completing such a challenging task. Take a moment to acknowledge and process these emotions. Reflecting on your performance is an important step in your post-exam journey.

When assessing your performance, consider the different sections of the exam. Did you feel confident in your multiple-choice answers? Were there specific essay prompts that you found more challenging? By identifying areas of strength and weakness, you can gain valuable insights into your test-taking strategies and areas for improvement.

Once you have evaluated your performance, it’s time to review your essays. Take the opportunity to read through your essays with a critical eye. Look for areas where you could have provided stronger analysis, supported your arguments more effectively, or improved your writing style. Consider the feedback you received from your teacher or peers during the exam preparation process and see if there are any recurring patterns or areas of improvement to focus on.

While it is important to strive for improvement, it is equally important to celebrate your accomplishments. Regardless of your score, recognize the effort and dedication you put into preparing for the exam. Completing the AP English Literature and Composition Exam is no small feat, and you should take pride in your commitment to the subject.

ap lit essay calculator

As you move forward, continue building your skills by reading and analyzing literature. This ongoing practice will not only enhance your understanding of literary works but also strengthen your ability to critically analyze complex texts. Explore different genres, authors, and time periods to broaden your literary horizons.

Seeking feedback is another valuable step in your post-exam journey. If possible, reach out to your teacher or peers and ask for their insights on your essays. Their perspectives can provide you with valuable feedback and different ways of approaching literary analysis. Use this feedback to refine your writing skills and develop a deeper understanding of the subject.

Finally, set new goals for yourself. Whether you plan to take additional English courses, pursue literature in higher education, or simply continue your literary journey independently, setting goals will help you stay motivated and focused. Consider what aspects of literature you are most passionate about and tailor your goals accordingly. Whether it’s exploring a specific literary movement, mastering a particular writing style, or delving into the works of a favorite author, let your goals guide your literary pursuits.

By following this ultimate guide and implementing effective study techniques, you can increase your chances of acing the AP English Literature and Composition Exam . Remember, this exam not only tests your knowledge of literature but also your ability to think critically and analyze complex texts. With dedication and practice, you can conquer this challenging exam and set yourself up for success in your literary endeavors.

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AP English Literature and Composition

Learn all about the course and exam. Already enrolled? Join your class in My AP.

Not a Student?

Go to AP Central for resources for teachers, administrators, and coordinators.

About the Course

Learn how to understand and evaluate works of fiction, poetry, and drama from various periods and cultures. You’ll read literary works and write essays to explain and support your analysis of them.

New for 2024-25: MCQs Will Have Four Answer Choices

Starting in the 2024-25 school year, AP English Literature and Composition multiple-choice questions (MCQs) will have four answer choices instead of five. This change will take effect with the 2025 exam. All resources have been updated to reflect this change. 

Skills You'll Learn

Read a text closely and draw conclusions from details

Identify the techniques used by an author and their effects

Develop an interpretation of a text

Present your interpretation and make an argument for it in writing

Equivalency and Prerequisites

College course equivalent.

An introductory college-level literature course

Recommended Prerequisites

About the units.

The course content outlined below is organized into commonly taught units of study that provide one possible sequence for the course. Your teacher may choose to organize the course content differently based on local priorities and preferences.

Course Content

Unit 1: short fiction i.

You’ll learn critical reading skills to help you critically read, interpret, and analyze prose.

Topics may include:

  • Interpreting the role of character in fiction
  • Identifying and interpreting setting
  • Understanding how a story’s structure affects interpretations
  • Understanding and interpreting a narrator’s perspective
  • Reading texts literally and figuratively
  • The basics of literary analysis

Unit 2: Poetry I

You’ll continue your critical reading exploration in poetry and learn to analyze similar elements within a wide variety of poems.

  • Identifying characters in poetry
  • Understanding and interpreting meaning in poetic structure
  • Analyzing word choice to find meaning
  • Identifying techniques like contrast, simile, metaphor, and alliteration

Unit 3: Longer Fiction or Drama I

You’ll observe how the literary techniques you’ve explored in prior units unfold over the course of longer works and analyze how characters develop and interact over the course of a narrative.

  • Interpreting character description and perspective
  • Character evolution throughout a narrative
  • Conflict and plot development
  • Interpreting symbolism
  • Identifying evidence and supporting literary arguments

Unit 4: Short Fiction II

You’ll delve deeper into the roles of character and conflict in fiction and explore how a narrator’s perspective can color storytelling.

  • Protagonists, antagonists, character relationships, and conflict
  • Character interactions with setting and its significance
  • Archetypes in literature
  • Types of narration like stream of consciousness
  • Narrative distance, tone, and perspective

Unit 5: Poetry II

You’ll study different forms of poetry and examine how structure and figurative language can create and impact meaning.

  • Traits of closed and open structures in poetry
  • Use of techniques like imagery and hyperbole
  • Types of comparisons in poetry including personification and allusion
  • Identifying and interpreting extended metaphors

Unit 6: Longer Fiction or Drama II

You’ll analyze how various literary techniques play out and shift over the course of longer works, charting how characters change (or don’t) as they’re affected by developments in the plot.

  • Interpreting foil characters
  • Understanding and interpreting character motives
  • Understanding nonlinear narrative structures like flashbacks and foreshadowing
  • The effect of narrative tone and bias on reading
  • Characters as symbols, metaphors, and archetypes
  • Developing literary arguments within a broader context of works

Unit 7: Short Fiction III

You’ll examine how works of fiction interact with and comment on the world around them and the society their authors live or lived in.

  • Sudden and more gradual change in characters
  • Epiphany as a driver of plot
  • Relationships between characters and groups
  • Character interactions with settings
  • The significance of the pacing of a narrative
  • Setting as a symbol
  • Interpreting texts in their historical and societal contexts

Unit 8: Poetry III

You’ll develop your interpretation of poetry further by examining how contrasts, ambiguous language, and various other techniques can add layers of meaning to a poetic work.

  • Looking at punctuation and structural patterns
  • Interpreting juxtaposition, paradox, and irony
  • How ambiguity can allow for various interpretations
  • Identifying symbols, conceits, and allusions
  • Learning proper attribution and citation in literary analysis

Unit 9: Longer Fiction or Drama III

You’ll consider longer narratives in the context of the various techniques and interpretations you’ve learned in prior units and build a nuanced analysis of each complex work as a whole.

  • Looking at a character’s response to the resolution of a narrative
  • Suspense, resolution, and plot development
  • Narrative inconsistencies and contrasting perspectives

Credit and Placement

Search AP Credit Policies

Find colleges that grant credit and/or placement for AP Exam scores in this and other AP courses.

Course Resources

Ap classroom resources.

Once you join your AP class section online, you’ll be able to access AP Daily videos, any assignments from your teacher, and your assignment results in AP Classroom. Sign in to access them.

  • Go to AP Classroom

AP English Literature and Composition Reading Study Skills

Advice to keep up with the reading workload in your AP class.

AP English Literature and Composition Writing Study Skills

Learn to craft your writing process.

AP English Literature and Composition Course and Exam Description

This is the core document for the course. It clearly lays out the course content and describes the exam and AP Program in general.

The Difference Between AP English Language and Composition and AP English Literature and Composition

Learn the similarities and differences between these two courses and exams.

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Advanced Placement (AP)

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When you're studying for your AP Literature Exam, you're going to want to use practice tests and questions to hone your skills. But where can you find AP literature practice tests? And are all practice exams equally useful for you?

The real exam has 55 multiple-choice questions and three free-response questions, but there are practice tests with every conceivable number and combination of question types.

In this article, you'll learn where to find every official College Board AP English Literature and Composition practice exam, free unofficial tests, and paid practice test resources. You'll also find out which tests are high-quality and how you can best use different practice exams to fulfill your studying needs.

Official Free AP Literature Practice Tests

The gold standard of AP English Literature practice tests and AP English Literature practice exam questions are College Board released materials . That's because the College Board administers the AP exams, so their practice questions are most like the actual AP questions you'll see on the test.

There are three different kinds of resources offered by the College Board: complete released exams from past years, released free-response questions from past years, and sample questions from the "AP Course And Exam Description."

Official Released College Board Exams

There are three official released College Board Exams. However, only the most recent one (from 2012) is complete. The 1999 and 1987 exams have the standard 55 multiple-choice questions, but both are missing parts of the three question free-response section. You can still use them as complete exams if you supplement them with released free-response questions from past years which we recommend since official multiple-choice problems are hard to come by.

2012 AP English Literature and Composition Exam

This is the best AP Lit practice test available. It's the most recent exam released by the College Board, and it follows the format of the current test with 55 multiple-choice questions and three free-response questions. Definitely make use of this test!

1999 AP English Literature and Composition Exam

This test excludes the poetry and prose analysis questions of the free-response section and only has the student choice question. So, to take it as a complete exam, you'd need to supplement it with questions 1 and 2 from the released free-response questions below . You can actually get question 2 for the 1999 test from the official free-response questions bank, but the excerpt for question 1 can't be reprinted, so you'll need to supplement with another poetry analysis question.

1987 AP English Literature and Composition Exam For reasons that are not totally clear, this exam excludes the third essay question, the poetry analysis. If you want to take this as "complete" exam practice, use a free-response poetry analysis prompt from the bank of free response questions linked below.

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Or supplement with this tree-poem.

Official Free-Response Questions

There may not be very many complete released exams, but there are tons of free-response questions available from previous administrations of the test. These are great practice, not just for writing complete essays, but for practicing writing thesis statements, outlines, and so on.

What's also great about these is that most of them come with sample response and scoring guidelines, so you'll be able to see exactly what makes a high-quality AP essay by College Board standards. Be aware, though, that some of the prose and poetry excerpts can't be reprinted due to copyright concerns.

Below is the link to all the free-response questions available. The questions go all the way back to 1999, and since there haven't been many changes to the free-response part of the exam, all of these questions can be useful during your studying.

AP English Lit Free Response Questions 1999-2021

Sample Questions From the Course and Exam Description

The 2019 AP English Literature Course and Exam Description has practice multiple-choice questions and free-response questions.They don't add up to a complete test--there are only 19 multiple-choice questions instead of 55–but there are three free response questions (enough for a full test). Even though there aren’t many multiple-choice questions, they are great for simple practice.

If you're looking for more questions like these, you can revisit the old exam description booklets as well . (Just keep in mind that some of the other information in the booklet may be out of date!)

Your Teacher

Your AP teacher may have access to copies of old AP exams that you can use for practice. They probably can't let you take them out of the classroom, but they may be allowed to loan them to you in a supervised setting. This is because teachers can purchase resources directly from the College Board that students can't. Asking your teacher may not bear fruit, but it's worth a try.

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Why are you asking me for AP Lit practice tests? I'm your Econ teacher!

Free Unofficial AP Literature Practice Tests

In addition to the free College Board resources, there are also several places online where you can get free, unofficial practice tests. Be aware that, because these resources aren't College-Board created or approved, they are of variable quality. For each of these resources we'll describe what's offered and how it compares to official College Board tests.

Varsity Tutors AP Literature Practice Tests

This site has multiple-choice practice quizzes divided by concept--things like "interpreting the passage," "claims and argument," and "interpreting excerpts." The questions aren't worded exactly the same way as AP test questions, but they are still okay for testing your passage-interpretation skills. Basically, the questions test for similar skills, but don't necessarily mimic AP test questions in style.

Also, the site provides the date, title, and author of each work, which is not something you'll receive on the AP exam. You can make a free account at the site to track your scores, but it's not necessary to be able to take the tests.

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Kittens not included with free practice tests, unfortunately.

Albert AP English Literature Quizzes

Albert offers multiple-choice quizzes divided into prose, poetry, and drama categories. You are given the title, date, and author of the work--which you will not receive on the real AP exam. Like the Varsity Tutors quizzes, Albert offers questions that test similar skills as the AP exam, but the questions are worded differently.

High School Test Prep Tests

This site offers three short multiple-choice practice tests. You're given the title and author of the work. The questions for these tests are fairly surface-level, so I would only use these if you are working on your reading comprehension skills.

CrackAP English Literature Quizzes

CrackAP has over 40 short AP Lit quizzes. Each quiz gives a passage then has 15 multiple-choice questions on it. The questions are somewhat easier than you'll find on the real AP exam, but if you need some quick practice, this can do the trick. This resource also has examples of past free response questions, which can be useful study tools, too!

Practice Quiz AP English Literature

This site offers a 20-question multiple-choice quiz on two passages--one poetry, and one prose. The passages are extremely basic, however, so I would only use this resource if you are working on your reading comprehension skills.

Looking for help studying for your AP exam? Our one-on-one online AP tutoring services can help you prepare for your AP exams. Get matched with a top tutor who got a high score on the exam you're studying for!

The queens of AP Lit practice give you their blessing.

Paid Unofficial Practice Tests

There are also several paid resources that offer unofficial practice questions.

This is a subscription service with questions for tons of different tests—SAT, ACT, and AP exams.They also have videos and other review resources. We can't really speak to the quality of the questions because the entire service is behind a paywall of about $25 a month.

The Princeton Review AP Literature Study Guide 2021

Published study guides are an excellent way to practice for the AP Literature exam. These books are put together by experts who have inside knowledge of the test, and The Princeton Review is one of the best out there.

This study guide has three practice tests, along with other types of sample questions and expert explanations to help you improve your analytical skills.

Barron's AP English Literature and Composition, 7th Edition

Like The Princeton Review study guide, the Barron's AP Literature study guide is another great resource for students looking for extra exam prep. This guide has four practice tests and sample essay questions , along with an expert walk-through of the AP Literature exam itself.

If you're looking for a guide that gives you practice and provides tips for mastering the exam, this would be a good pick!

This subscription service offers access to tons of test prep, including the SAT, ACT and lots of AP courses. Their AP Literature resources include two full-length practice tests, three sets of flashcards to help you study, and several instructional videos.

Prices for subscriptions start at $39 dollars per month, and some plans include live tutoring and writing instruction . If you choose to subscribe, you get access to all of their course and test-prep materials, so if you’re taking several AP classes, this could be a good source.

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I definitely advise paying for all of these resources with whatever loose foreign change you have lying around.

How to Use AP Literature Practice Tests

How to use a given practice test depends somewhat on the resource itself. We'll offer some recommendations here on how to best use different resources.

Complete Official Released Tests

The best way to use a complete official practice test is to do a practice-run for the exam . So find a quiet room, bring a timer or watch so you can time sections, and get to work! This will help you get familiar with the exam experience so you'll feel more comfortable on exam day!

Since there are two complete AP Lit practice tests, it makes sense to take one early on in your studying time, and one later. You can get a parent, tutor or teacher to grade the exams. The early test will help you figure out what you need to work on, and the later test will show you how you've improved! Since the AP English Literature test is more skills-heavy than content-heavy, you shouldn't feel totally lost taking a practice test even in the middle of the school year.

Official Released Free-Response and Sample Questions

Official resources that aren't complete tests are best for practicing individual sections of the test. The sample multiple-choice questions in the "Course and Exam Description" make for great AP English Literature multiple-choice practice--they'll help you get familiar with the style of the questions and practice close-reading.

The wealth of released free-response questions are great resources for building your timed essay-writing skills. You can practice complete essays or develop essay outlines.

Unofficial Practice Tests and Resources

Since unofficial practice tests aren't going to be quite as similar to the real AP exam as official College Board materials, they won't be quite as useful for preparing for the format of the exam or its questions. However, they can be very valuable close-reading practice. And since that's a critical skill for the exam, it's still worth it to use unofficial resources.

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Be very quiet. She's close-reading.

Key Takeaways

Practice tests and questions are a hugely important resource as you prep for the AP Lit exam. The gold standard of practice resources are those that come from the College Board, but there are many other places where you can get practice questions that will help you hone your close-reading skills for the exam. Most of the resources listed in this article are free, but a few are paid.

Remember: official College Board practice tests are best for simulating the exam experience. Actual College Board questions are good for focused preparation for individual sections of the exam--especially the essays. Unofficial resources are best used for further honing your close-reading skills after you’ve practiced with the official materials.

Now that you know where to find these resources, you're ready to start studying for your AP Literature exam!

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What's Next?

Wondering what you should be reading for AP Lit? Check out our list of 127 great books to help you prepare for the AP Literature exam.

Need more study guidance for your APs? See my five-step AP prep plan. Or see our guide on when to start studying for your APs.

If you're looking for practice tests for other AP exams, see our assembled practice tests for AP US History , AP Chemistry , AP Biology , AP World History , and AP Psychology .

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points?   We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download them for free now:

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

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Ellen has extensive education mentorship experience and is deeply committed to helping students succeed in all areas of life. She received a BA from Harvard in Folklore and Mythology and is currently pursuing graduate studies at Columbia University.

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  2. 🎉 Ap lit essay. Sample ap lit essays. 2019-02-10

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  3. AP Lit Essay Writing Anchor Charts Bundle by Jeanmarie McLaughlin

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  5. AP Lit 6 Point Rubric to Grade

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  6. AP Lit Othello Essay

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  1. AP® English Literature Score Calculator

    For instance, according to the AP® Student Score Distribution released by the College Board, the mean AP® English Literature score in 2014 was 2.76, 2015 was 2.78, 2016 was 2.75, 2017 was 2.69, 2018 was 2.57, 2019 was 2.62 and 2.84 in 2020. If you add these seven numbers and calculate a raw average, you can discover a multi-year average score ...

  2. AP English Literature Score Calculator 2024 with Rubric Points

    The one area that can't be perfectly accurate is how we determined the final predicted scores (College Board doesn't publish the "cut points" for each scores.) We used old released exams and other calculators to estimate "if you earned this % of points, you would earn this score": 0-29% = 1. 30-44% = 2. 45-59% = 3.

  3. AP English Literature Test Score Calculator

    AP English Literature Test Score Calculator Multiple Choice Right: / 55 Multiple Choice Percent: 100% Poem Essay: / 6 Prose Essay: / 6 Analysis Essay: / 6 Composite Score: 120 / 120 (approx) AP Grade: 5 / 5 Find your score: 2020 2014 2009 2004 * Estimate only View study guides (2)

  4. AP Lit Score Calculator

    The calculator will automatically sum both scores and provide your total AP Lit score out of 100. Predict AP Lit Exam Grade. If you want to predict the grade you might receive on the AP Literature exam, input your multiple-choice and free-response scores into the calculator. It will instantly estimate the equivalent AP grade (1-5) based on the ...

  5. AP English Literature (AP Lit) Score Calculator

    AP Lit Score Calculator - Use our AP Lit calculator to help you study for the 2024 exam. We also examine the AP Lit rubric. ... The AP English Literature and Composition Exam runs for 3 hours and 55 minutes. It consists of two sections - 55 multiple-choice questions and 3 free-response questions. The first section, containing multiple-choice ...

  6. AP English Literature Score Calculator for 2023

    To calculate your possible AP English Literature score, use the sliders below to adjust the 1 multiple-choice section and 3 free response questions. The curve for this score calculator is based on the most recently available scoring guidelines. Section I: Multiple-Choice. 30 /55. 0 /55 55 /55.

  7. AP® English Literature

    With our calculator, you get more than just a number; you get insights into your performance based on each section of the AP® English Literature & Composition exam, helping you grasp your strengths and areas for improvement. Our tool provides an adaptive analysis of your scores, offering detailed breakdowns.

  8. AP® English Literature and Composition Scoring and Calculator

    The AP English Literature and Composition exam assesses students' critical reading abilities as well as their understanding of a wide range of literary works across genres and periods. The test is graded on a scale of 1 to 5, with 3 considered the passing score by most colleges. Students who score a 3 or higher on the exam may be eligible for ...

  9. AP English Literature and Composition Score Calculator

    30-49. 2. D. 0-29. 1. F. This table shows the range of raw scores needed to achieve a particular AP score, where a 5 is the highest score, indicating extremely well understanding of the material, and a 1 where there's significant room for improvement.

  10. Albert Ap Lit Calculator

    The main purpose of the Albert AP Lit Calculator is to provide a quick and easy way to estimate your AP score. It takes into account: Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs): These questions make up 45% of your total score. Free-Response Questions (FRQs): These essays make up 55% of your total score. By inputting the number of correct MCQs and the ...

  11. Best 2024 AP Score Calculator with Rubric Points

    AP Score Calculator. The best, most accurate AP score calculator (it's pretty, too). Just choose your subject! Your forecast awaits 🔮.

  12. AP® English Literature

    In 2022, the AP® English Literature and Composition exam had a passing rate of 77.9% and a mean score of 3.31. These are both significant improvements over previous years! ... Albert provides an AP® English Literature score calculator that can provide information on how many questions you need to get right to achieve the score you want.

  13. AP English Literature and Composition Exam

    Section I: Multiple Choice. 55 Questions | 1 Hour | 45% of Exam Score. Includes 5 sets of questions with 8-13 questions per set. Each set is preceded by a passage of prose fiction, drama, or poetry of varying difficulty. The multiple-choice section will always include at least 2 prose fiction passages (this may include drama) and at least 2 ...

  14. AP English Literature and Composition Exam Questions

    Download free-response questions from this year's exam and past exams along with scoring guidelines, sample responses from exam takers, and scoring distributions. If you are using assistive technology and need help accessing these PDFs in another format, contact Services for Students with Disabilities at 212-713-8333 or by email at ssd@info ...

  15. AP® English Literature

    The Best AP® English Literature Review Guide for 2024. Read this post if you're looking for guidance on how to approach the 2020 online AP® English Literature exam. In it, we'll review the latest exam format changes, different study tips and test taking strategies for an open-book exam, and provide you with a hand-picked list of practice ...

  16. Expert's Guide to the AP Literature Exam

    The AP Literature Exam is a three-hour exam that contains two sections in this order: An hour-long, 55-question multiple-choice section. A two-hour, three-question free-response section. The exam tests your ability to analyze works and excerpts of literature and cogently communicate that analysis in essay form.

  17. PDF AP English Literature and Composition

    AP English Literature Scoring Rubric, Free-Response Question 1-3 | SG 1 Scoring Rubric for Question 1: Poetry Analysis 6 points Reporting Category Scoring Criteria Row A Thesis (0-1 points) 7.B 0 points For any of the following: • There is no defensible thesis. • The intended thesis only restates the prompt.

  18. How to Find and Use AP Score Calculators

    There are 55 possible multiple choice points (1 point per question) worth 45% of your score, and 3 essays (worth 9 points each) for 27 possible points worth 55% of your score. This is the calculator we are using: (Multiple Choice Score x 1.23) + (Essays x 3.05) = Total Score. That total score is translated to the final composite AP score of 1-5 ...

  19. The Ultimate Guide to Acing the AP English Literature and Composition

    The AP English Literature and Composition exam is 3 hours long and consists of two sections: multiple-choice and free-response. The multiple-choice section is worth 45% of the exam score and consists of 55 questions that students have 1 hour to complete. The free-response section is worth 55% of the exam score and consists of 3 questions that ...

  20. The Best AP® Score Calculators for 2024

    With our score calculator, you can learn what you'll need to score a 3, 4, or 5. AP® score calculators are a great way to motivate yourself when you're studying. You can quickly realize how close you may be to getting the score you want. We recommend you run our calculator regularly in your AP® exam prep, so you can understand where you ...

  21. AP English Literature

    We used old released exams and other calculators to estimate "if you earned this % of points, you would earn this score": 0-29% = 1. 30-44% = 2. 45-59% = 3. 60-74% = 4. 75% or more = 5. These are meant to be benchmarks to give a rough idea of where you might fall, but the actual numbers are adjusted each year to be based on the curve.

  22. AP English Literature and Composition

    New for 2024-25: MCQs Will Have Four Answer Choices. Starting in the 2024-25 school year, AP English Literature and Composition multiple-choice questions (MCQs) will have four answer choices instead of five. This change will take effect with the 2025 exam. All resources have been updated to reflect this change.

  23. Every AP Literature Practice Test Available: Free and Official

    This is the best AP Lit practice test available. It's the most recent exam released by the College Board, and it follows the format of the current test with 55 multiple-choice questions and three free-response questions. Definitely make use of this test! 1999 AP English Literature and Composition Exam. This test excludes the poetry and prose ...