FRQ Tips

The following statistics show how often general topics are asked on the FRQs. These approximations are based on the last 10 years of released FRQs (including Form B) and ACDC - Thanks Mr. Clifford!

What do they ask on FRQ #1?

The first FRQ is always longer and more complex than the other two questions. It will often include topics form two or three different units. This FRQ has always started with the graph for one of the following:
-monopoly (60% of the time)
-perfect competition (30%)
-monopolistic competition (10%)

Sometimes the graph given and sometimes the student must draw the graph. Reoccurring topics on FRQ #1include:

Calculating or shading in profit or loss

-socially optimal quantity (allocative efficiency)

-difference between lump-sum and per-unit tax or subsidy

-elasticity

-difference between accounting and economic profit

-difference between short run and long run perfect competition or monopolistic competition

What do they ask on FRQs 2 & 3?

FRQs #2 and #3 are shorter and have fewer parts than FRQ #1. These questions are often unit specific and require students to demonstrate mastery of explicit skills. Topics cover the entire course; however, the following list shows approximately how often certain topics are covered.

25% Resource Market, MRP=MRC

14% Supply and Demand, Price Controls

12% Externalities

10% Game Theory

10% Trade and Tariffs

7% Utility Maximization

7% Excise Taxes

15% Other

Six Tips for Success

Read the question over again.

Each part of the question asks you to complete a very specific task. Make sure you know exactly what the question is asking before you write the answer or draw the graph.

Lapel your graph.

The easiest way to lose points on the FRQ is to not label the curves. Most graphs earn you multiple points so take your time to draw them correctly, label, and show arrows when there are shifts.

When in doubt, draw it out.

Even if the question doesn’t ask for a graph, drawing a graph can help you get the right answer.

Circle key words

There are three key words to watch out for: identify, calculate, and explain.

Identify – the answer is almost always up, down, or same.

Explain – make sure when you see this word you include the word because in your answer.

Calculate – the answer is a number.

Never leave it blank.

Even if you don’t know exactly how to draw a graph, draw what you know. Most graphs are worth several points and other questions give you choices between three answers. There is no penalty for wring answers so you might as well guess.

Make a choice and stick with it.

If you are unsure about an answer , take your best educated guess and stick with the answer through the entire FRQ. Even if your first answer is wrong, you can still get consistency points. Your answer should never include the words “maybe”, “probably”, or “might”.