Algebra-based, conceptually heavy, and notorious for the lowest AP pass rate.
AP Physics 1 has historically had one of the toughest curves of any AP exam — fewer than 10% of students score a 5 — largely because the FRQs reward verbal reasoning and free-body diagrams over plug-and-chug calculation. Our lessons treat every problem as a reasoning exercise first: identify the system, draw the FBD, write the conservation statement, and only then reach for an equation.
The 2024 redesign re-emphasised fluid mechanics and rotational motion. We've updated Units 5 and 7 to match the current course framework and added FRQ practice for the new experimental design and qualitative-quantitative translation question types.
Master AP Physics 1
161+ interactive lessons, diagnostic assessments, flashcards, daily questions, and competitive challenges — everything you need to score a 5.
Start here
Take the free AP Physics 1 diagnostic
It finds what you already know and builds your study plan: the topics to clear first, each a short lesson plus an exit quiz.
Take the free diagnosticInteractive Lessons
Step-by-step lessons covering every AP Physics 1 unit with practice problems, diagrams, and exit quizzes.
Diagnostic Test
Quick assessment across all AP Physics 1 units to pinpoint your strengths and weak areas.
Unit Tests
Drill a single AP unit at a time. 8 units · 4 different variations each — perfect for end-of-unit review.
Flashcards
Review physics equations, key concepts, and unit definitions with spaced-repetition flashcards.
Competitive Mode
Challenge other students in real-time physics question battles. Climb the leaderboard.
Daily question
A fresh AP Physics 1 question every day covering different units. Build consistency.
Exit Quizzes
Short assessments after each lesson to confirm understanding before moving on.
FRQ Practice
Practice free-response questions with auto-grading, rubrics, and timed exam simulation. 50% of the AP exam.
Full-Length Practice Exam
40 MCQs + 4 FRQs modeled on the official CB exam (2024+ CED). Timed, calculator allowed, with self-graded rubrics.
What's Covered
Unit 1: Kinematics
- Position & Displacement
- Velocity & Acceleration
- Kinematic Equations
- Projectile Motion
Unit 2: Dynamics (Newton's Laws)
- Newton's Three Laws
- Free-Body Diagrams
- Friction & Normal Force
- Circular Motion
Unit 3–4: Work, Energy & Momentum
- Work-Energy Theorem
- Conservation of Energy
- Power
- Linear Momentum
- Impulse & Collisions
Unit 5–7: Rotation, Oscillations & Waves
- Torque & Rotational Motion
- Angular Momentum
- Simple Harmonic Motion
- Mechanical Waves & Sound
About the AP Physics 1 Exam
Format
- • Section I: 40 MCQs in 90 minutes
- • Section II: 5 FRQs in 90 minutes
- • Algebra-based (no calculus required)
- • Total exam time: 3 hours
- • Calculator allowed
Scoring
- • Score range: 1–5
- • 5 = Extremely well qualified
- • ~8% of students score a 5
- • No penalty for guessing
- • Most colleges accept 4+