Award-Winning 12th Grade AP Computer Science Tutors
serving Des Moines, IA
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Award-Winning 12th Grade AP Computer Science Tutors serving Des Moines, IA
Certified Tutor
2+ years
Erik
I am a graduate from the University of Florida, University of Pennsylvania, and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. I have graduated with scholarship honors in Chemical Engineering with a Bachelor of Sciences from University of Florida, Masters of Computer and Information Technology from UPenn,...
University of Pennsylvania
MMG
Certified Tutor
2+ years
Conrad
I believe every person has potential, which must be drawn out of them. With over 4 years of leading workshops, being a Teaching Assistant and creating curriculum, and nearly two years of private tutoring, I know how to help students and people of all ages easily understand concepts in Science, Techn...
Vanderbilt University
Bachelor
Certified Tutor
2+ years
Isha
By 12th grade, AP Computer Science dives deep into algorithm efficiency, sorting implementations, and recursive problem-solving that separates a 3 from a 5 on the exam. Isha's graduate-level work in data structures and algorithms at the University of Iowa means she doesn't just teach the "what" — sh...
University of Iowa
Master's/Graduate
Certified Tutor
2+ years
Apoorv
As a master's graduate in Applied Computing with a Computer Science background and over two years of hands-on software development experience, I'm all about making learning fun and engaging! I've had the chance to teach students of all ages, from 5th graders to college students studying Computer Sci...
University of Windsor
Master's/Graduate
Certified Tutor
I am a licensed physician from Florida who is currently changing careers. I graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in 2009 and have extensive tutoring and editing experience. While a student, I became a certified writing tutor through the Critical Writing Department. Since I completed my writ...
Nova Southeastern University
PHD, Medicine
University of Pennsylvania
Bachelors, History
University of Pennsylvania
undergraduate
Certified Tutor
9+ years
Jai
I'm a recent Stanford graduate (Electrical Engineering and Computer Science), and have been working at a major Management Consulting firm for a few years now. I personally scored a 2360 (out of 2400) on the SAT and 35 on the ACT and was successful in gaining admission to several top universities. I'...
Stanford University
Bachelors in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
Certified Tutor
Kate
I'm available to tutor biology, chemistry, physics, math from Algebra up through AP Calculus, SAT test prep, and French. I've been tutoring students in science and math for 7 years. I also spent 8 months working and studying in France, and have tutored high school and adult students in French. When ...
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Masters, Environmental Engineering
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Bachelors
Certified Tutor
6+ years
Rhea
I am a current student at the University of Chicago. I am working towards a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, and I am on the pre-medical track. I am extremely passionate about tutoring, and I have several years of experience tutoring students in my high school's learning center in various...
University of Chicago
Bachelor of Science, Biology, General
Certified Tutor
Erika
I am available to tutor middle and high school math, history and test prep. I have tutored math and history in the past and I previously taught a test prep course at a school in Hanoi, Vietnam. I have a lot of experience teaching all the need-to-know tricks to doing great on the SATS/ACTS! When I am...
Harvard University
Master of Public Policy, Public Policy
Certified Tutor
6+ years
Jeffrey
I am enrolled in the Mechanical Engineering PhD program at Rice University which will begin Fall 2020, and I am hoping to return to academia as a professor after earning my PhD. In the meantime, I am looking to share my passion for gaining knowledge, specifically in STEM, by educating the up and com...
University of Notre Dame
Bachelor of Science
Rice University
Doctor of Philosophy, Mechanical Engineering
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Frequently Asked Questions
AP Computer Science A focuses on object-oriented programming and problem-solving using Java. The course covers fundamental concepts like variables, control structures, arrays, and classes, progressing to more advanced topics like inheritance, polymorphism, and recursion. Students learn both the theoretical foundations of computer science and practical coding skills needed to solve real-world problems.
The AP exam consists of two sections: a multiple-choice section (40 questions in 90 minutes) and a free-response section (4 questions in 90 minutes). The multiple-choice section tests conceptual understanding and code analysis, while the free-response section requires you to write and modify Java code to solve problems. Success requires both strong coding skills and the ability to trace through code logic quickly and accurately.
Many students struggle with debugging complex code, understanding inheritance and polymorphism, and managing time during the free-response section. Additionally, translating problem descriptions into working code—especially under time pressure—is a frequent challenge. Personalized tutoring helps identify your specific weak areas, whether that's conceptual gaps or test-taking speed, so you can focus your preparation effectively.
AP scores range from 1 to 5, with a 3 or higher generally considered passing and qualifying for college credit at most institutions. A score of 4 or 5 demonstrates strong mastery and often earns credit toward computer science major requirements. Your target score depends on your college goals and major—work with a tutor to develop a study plan aligned with your specific needs.
Expert tutors can help you master difficult concepts like recursion and object-oriented design, develop efficient code-writing strategies for the free-response section, and practice with full-length exams under timed conditions. They also help you identify gaps in your understanding early, so you have time to strengthen weak areas before test day. With one-on-one instruction tailored to your learning style, you'll build both confidence and competence.
Most students benefit from starting preparation several months before the May exam, dedicating 5-10 hours per week to studying and practice. This timeline allows you to thoroughly understand each unit, complete multiple practice tests, and refine your test-taking strategies. If you're starting closer to exam day, intensive tutoring can help you focus on high-impact topics and maximize your score improvement in a shorter timeframe.
Practice tests help you become familiar with the exam format, identify your weak areas, and build time-management skills under realistic conditions. They also reduce test anxiety by letting you experience the pressure of the actual exam before test day. Working through practice tests with a tutor allows you to review mistakes, understand why you missed questions, and adjust your strategy accordingly.
Varsity Tutors connects you with expert tutors in Des Moines who specialize in AP Computer Science and understand the specific challenges of the course and exam. When you get matched with a tutor, you'll work one-on-one on the topics and skills that matter most for your success—whether that's mastering Java syntax, understanding complex algorithms, or developing test-taking strategies. You can start with a consultation to discuss your goals and find the right fit.
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