AP Chemistry guides
Free, clear guides to AP Chemistry: topics, equations, exam technique and revision plans, written by our tutors. 3 guides so far.
AP Chemistry is College Board's first-year college chemistry course: atomic structure, bonding, intermolecular forces, reactions, kinetics, thermochemistry, equilibrium, acids and bases, and electrochemistry.
These guides cover the units and their weightings, the equations and constants sheet, and how to score well on the free-response questions.
Start here
- AP Chemistry units: all nine, and how much each is worth: the nine units and what each is worth
- The AP Chemistry equation sheet, explained: the equations and constants you are given
- AP Chemistry free-response questions: how to score well: how the free-response section is scored
The exam at a glance
| Multiple choice | 60 questions in 1 hour 30 minutes, 50% of the score |
|---|---|
| Free response | 7 questions in 1 hour 45 minutes: 3 long (10 points) and 4 short (4 points) |
| Reference | A periodic table and a sheet of equations and constants; a calculator is allowed |
| Scores | 1 to 5, with the exam in May |
All AP Chemistry guides
- AP Chemistry units: all nine, and how much each is worthThe nine AP Chemistry units with their exam weightings, what each one covers, the exam format and how to plan your review.
- The AP Chemistry equation sheet, explainedWhat is on the AP Chemistry equations and constants sheet, what each equation is for, worked examples, and how to use it in the exam.
- AP Chemistry free-response questions: how to score wellHow the AP Chemistry free-response section works: 3 long and 4 short questions, how they are scored, timing and how to write full-credit answers.
Free practice and past papers
Frequently asked questions
Which AP Chemistry unit is worth the most?
Unit 3, Properties of Substances and Mixtures, at 18% to 22% of the multiple-choice section.
Is there an equation sheet in AP Chemistry?
Yes. You get a periodic table and a sheet of equations and constants for the whole exam.
Is the AP Chemistry exam changing in 2027?
AP Central lists no format change for May 2027.