🧑‍💻 Coding and computer science

AP Computer Science: Java depth or a broad Principles course

AP Computer Science A is a Java programming course. Computer Science Principles is broader and project-based. Choose by your goals and your school's offering.

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At a glance

AP Computer Science A and Computer Science Principles

Syllabi, patterns and dates change. Check the official source below for the current notice.

Board

College Board's Advanced Placement programme.

Two courses

Computer Science A focuses on programming in Java. Computer Science Principles covers computing ideas, with a project.

Exam

Multiple-choice and free-response, plus a performance task for Principles. Check College Board.

Syllabus

Published in the course description and updated from time to time.

What it covers

Topics and skills

Programming in Java (CSA)

Classes, objects, methods, selection, iteration.

Data structures (CSA)

Arrays, ArrayList and 2D arrays.

Algorithms (CSA)

Searching, sorting and recursion.

Big ideas (CSP)

Creative development, data, algorithms, networks and impact.

Performance task (CSP)

A program of your own and a written response.

What earns marks

Correct, efficient code
Clear explanations in free-response
A well-documented project

Common mistakes

Not practising free-response
Weak tracing of loops and arrays
Starting the project late
Ignoring the scoring guidelines

A plan

How to prepare, in four phases

01
Phase 1: Core Java or big ideas
Learn the syntax or the vocabulary.
02
Phase 2: Practice
Write many short programs or answer topic questions.
03
Phase 3: Free-response
Practise past free-response questions and the scoring guidelines.
04
Phase 4: Mocks
Timed multiple-choice and free-response.

Free practice

Practise here, no sign-up

Games and practice

Also useful

Coding classes by type

Official source: College Board: AP Computer Science. Check it for the current syllabus, pattern and dates. We do not promise marks, ranks or selection.

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Fifteen easy Python practice exercises for beginners with answers: print, variables, loops, lists, functions and FizzBuzz. Try them free in the browser, with no installation.

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Live online course

AP Computer Science: 36 live classes

12 weeks, 3 a week, from ₹505 a class in India (small group). See the week-by-week plan, the price for your country and how the demo class works.

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FAQ

AP Computer Science: questions people ask

Which AP Computer Science should I take?

A if you want to program in Java. Principles if you want a broader introduction. Many students take Principles first.

Is Java required?

Computer Science A uses Java. Principles lets you use a language of your choice.

Can I take AP from India?

Often yes, through your school or an authorised test centre. Check College Board.

Can you help?

Yes. Share your syllabus and level and a teacher from our network is matched to you before anything is booked.

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