The AP Computer Science Principles exam has two components: a multiple-choice section (70% of your score) with 80 questions covering all five big ideas, and a Create Performance Task (30% of your score) where you develop a program and submit documentation. You'll have 3 hours total for the exam. Understanding the timing for each section and practicing with actual AP format questions is key to performing well.

Many students struggle with translating real-world problems into algorithmic solutions, understanding abstraction concepts, and managing the Create Performance Task within the required specifications. If programming is new to you, the syntax and logic can feel overwhelming at first. Personalized tutoring helps you break down these concepts into manageable pieces and build confidence with hands-on practice.

AP scores range from 1 to 5, with 3 or higher generally considered passing and eligible for college credit at most universities. The national average typically hovers around 2.8-3.0, so scoring a 4 or 5 puts you well above average. Your goal depends on your college plans—check specific schools' policies—but consistent practice with full-length exams and targeted review of weak areas significantly improves your chances of reaching your target score.

Expert tutors help you master the curriculum at your own pace, identify gaps in understanding before they compound, and develop effective test-taking strategies specific to AP format. They can guide you through the Create Performance Task step-by-step, review your multiple-choice practice tests to spot patterns in your mistakes, and build your confidence with real exam questions. Personalized 1-on-1 instruction is especially valuable for bridging programming concepts and exam technique.

Your first session is about understanding where you are right now. A tutor will assess your current programming knowledge, review your course progress, and discuss your AP exam goals and timeline. Together, you'll identify which topics need the most attention—whether that's algorithms, the Create Performance Task, or test-taking strategy—and create a personalized study plan. This foundation ensures every session after that targets exactly what you need.

Ideally, you'll start exam-focused prep 8-12 weeks before test day, though this depends on your current understanding of the material. If you're struggling with core concepts, starting earlier gives you time to build a solid foundation before diving into practice exams and timing strategies. For students in Tulsa's 14 school districts, tutoring can be customized to fit your school's pacing and your personal learning speed.

Practice tests are essential—they help you get comfortable with exam timing, identify weak topics, and reduce test anxiety by familiarizing you with the question formats. Taking full-length practice exams under timed conditions 4-6 weeks before the real exam gives you realistic feedback on your readiness. A tutor can review your practice test results with you, pinpoint exactly which concepts to review, and help you develop pacing strategies so you don't run out of time on exam day.