AP Macroeconomics FRQ Room

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AP Macroeconomics Free Response Questions

The best way to get better at FRQs is practice. Browse through dozens of practice AP Macroeconomics FRQs to get ready for the big day.

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  • Unit 1: Basic Economic Concepts (38)
  • Unit 2: Economic Indicators and the Business Cycle (46)
  • Unit 3: National Income and Price Determination (58)
  • Unit 4: Financial Sector (33)
  • Unit 5: Long-Run Consequences of Stabilization Policies (46)
  • Unit 6: Open Economy—International Trade and Finance (29)
Unit 1: Basic Economic Concepts

AD-AS Analysis of a Decrease in Consumer Spending

Analyze the macroeconomic effects of a 10% decline in consumer spending using the aggregate demand–a

Medium

Analysis of Consumer and Producer Surplus in Market Equilibrium

Examine the concepts of consumer and producer surplus in a market and analyze how shifts in demand c

Medium

Analyzing Trade-offs and Decision Making in Firms

A firm must make production decisions that involve trade-offs. Use the following scenario and data t

Hard

Comparative Advantage and Trade Decisions

This question focuses on absolute and comparative advantage in international trade. Analyze producti

Easy

Comparative Advantage in Trade Decisions

This question explores comparative advantage and trade specialization between two countries. Use the

Hard

Comprehensive Review of Basic Economic Concepts

This comprehensive question integrates multiple basic economic concepts including scarcity, opportun

Extreme

Consumer Surplus Analysis and Reservation Price

Examine the concept of consumer surplus, its relation to reservation price, and its quantification u

Easy

Demand Analysis in a Competitive Market

This question focuses on the demand concept, including shifts due to income changes and substitutes.

Medium

Demand Determinants Analysis

This question focuses on the determinants of demand and their effects on market equilibrium. Answer

Easy

Distinguishing Macro and Microeconomic Perspectives

This question contrasts macroeconomics with microeconomics. Provide clear explanations and examples.

Easy

Economic Growth and Shifts in LRAS

Analyze how technological improvements can lead to economic growth, using the AD-AS framework to ill

Hard

Elasticity and Revenue

Determine how price elasticity of demand affects total revenue using provided market data for a spec

Medium

Evaluating the Effects of Economic Contraction on Unemployment and Inflation

This question analyzes the impact of an economic contraction on unemployment and inflation using the

Medium

Fiscal Policy Impact on AD-AS

Examine the effects of a government policy that reduces government spending by $50 billion on the ag

Hard

FRQ 5: Determinants of Demand – Impact on Market Equilibrium

Evaluate how changes in various determinants of demand affect market equilibrium using a hypothetica

Easy

FRQ 9: Government Intervention in Cases of Market Failure

Analyze the concept of market failure and discuss the role of government intervention in achieving a

Easy

FRQ 11: Government Trade-offs: Taxation vs. Public Investment

Evaluate the trade-offs governments face when allocating scarce resources between taxation and publi

Medium

FRQ 13: Economic Contraction and Production Possibility Analysis

Explore the effects of an economic contraction on a nation’s production capabilities using a Product

Hard

FRQ 19: Resource Allocation Trade-offs During a Recession

Examine how scarce resources force governments to make difficult trade-offs during a recession, cons

Medium

Government Trade-offs: Allocative vs. Productive Efficiency

Facing limited resources, a government must decide between allocating funds to healthcare or infrast

Hard

Inflation and the Phillips Curve

Analyze the relationship between inflation and unemployment using the Phillips Curve, especially in

Hard

International Trade and Terms of Trade

Analyze the benefits of international trade by evaluating comparative advantage and terms of trade b

Medium

International Trade and Terms of Trade

This question examines the concept of terms of trade and its implications in international economics

Hard

Interpreting Market Data: Demand and Supply Tables

Utilize given market data to determine equilibrium and analyze imbalances between supply and demand.

Medium

Investment and the Loanable Funds Market

Examine how changes in national saving and government borrowing affect the loanable funds market and

Medium

Long-run vs. Short-run Adjustments in Macroeconomics

This question requires you to compare short-run and long-run adjustments following an adverse econom

Hard

Market Equilibrium and Disequilibrium

This question explores market equilibrium and the adjustment mechanisms when the market is in disequ

Medium

Market Equilibrium and Disequilibrium Analysis

This question explores how market equilibrium is determined and what happens when the market is not

Easy

Market Equilibrium and Disequilibrium: Surplus and Shortage Analysis

Analyze how deviations from equilibrium create surpluses or shortages and how markets adjust to rest

Medium

Market Equilibrium and Price Determination

This question examines your understanding of market equilibrium and your ability to determine the eq

Medium

Market Failure and Efficiency

This question addresses different forms of efficiency and how market failures can disrupt an optimal

Medium

Opportunity Cost Calculation Problem

This question tests your understanding of opportunity cost. Answer each part with definitions, calcu

Easy

Policy Impacts on Opportunity Costs

This question explores how government policies, such as taxation, can affect the opportunity cost of

Hard

Real-life Trade-Offs and Resource Allocation

This question asks you to consider the real-world implications of trade-offs and resource allocation

Easy

Scarcity and Opportunity Cost Analysis

This question examines how limited resources necessitate trade-offs in decision-making. Consider an

Medium

Scarcity and Opportunity Costs

This FRQ addresses basic concepts of scarcity and opportunity cost. Answer the following parts:

Easy

Scarcity and Opportunity Costs Calculation

This question focuses on the fundamental concepts of economic scarcity, opportunity cost, and trade-

Easy

Understanding Market Disequilibrium: Surpluses and Shortages

This question explores market disequilibrium through the analysis of surpluses and shortages using p

Easy
Unit 2: Economic Indicators and the Business Cycle

AD-AS Framework: Deflation Analysis

Using the Aggregate Demand-Aggregate Supply framework, analyze the causes and effects of deflation a

Medium

Business Cycle Analysis

Interpret a business cycle graph and analyze the different phases.

Medium

Business Cycle Analysis: AD-AS Model

Interpret an AD-AS graph to demonstrate different phases of the business cycle and analyze changes i

Hard

Business Cycle Effects on Employment and Output

This question examines the relationship between the phases of the business cycle, employment trends,

Hard

Business Cycle: Policy Responses to Recession

Economic recessions require timely policy responses to mitigate downturns. Answer the following: Pa

Extreme

Business Cycles and GDP Fluctuations

The business cycle reflects the fluctuations in economic activity over time. Answer the following:

Medium

Business Cycles and Monetary Policy Response

Examine the phases of the business cycle and analyze how monetary policy can be used to mitigate the

Medium

Circular Flow and Leakage

Examine the concept of leakages in the circular flow model and discuss their implications for aggreg

Medium

Circular Flow in a Closed Economy

Analyze the basic circular flow model in a closed economy and explain the effects of including addit

Easy

Comparative Analysis of CPI and GDP Deflator

Compare the CPI and GDP deflator, compute the GDP deflator using provided data, and assess which mea

Extreme

Comparing GDP Deflator and CPI

Both the GDP deflator and the Consumer Price Index are used to measure price changes in an economy.

Medium

Comparing the CPI and GDP Deflator

Differentiate between the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and the GDP deflator, and use the GDP deflator

Medium

Comprehensive Evaluation of Economic Indicators

This final question requires you to integrate your knowledge of various economic indicators—includin

Extreme

Costs of Inflation and Their Impact

Inflation carries several costs that can affect businesses and households. Answer the following: Pa

Hard

Costs of Inflation: Menu Costs and Shoe-Leather Costs

Examine the costs associated with inflation and illustrate their impacts on both consumers and firms

Medium

CPI Calculation and its Limitations

This question examines the calculation of inflation through CPI and explores biases and limitations

Medium

CPI Computation and Limitations

Using a market basket approach, compute the Consumer Price Index (CPI), determine the inflation rate

Hard

CPI Methodology Critique: Substitution Bias and Quality Adjustments

Critically evaluate the methodology behind the Consumer Price Index (CPI), with a focus on substitut

Medium

Effects of Inflation on Interest Rates and Costs

Inflation alters interest rates and imposes various costs on the economy. Analyze these relationship

Hard

Environmental Costs and GDP Limitations

Examine the limitations of GDP as a measure of economic welfare with a focus on environmental degrad

Hard

Evaluating Fiscal Stimulus in a Recession

In a recession, governments may increase spending to stimulate the economy. Using the AD-AS model, a

Hard

Extended Circular Flow Model with Government and Foreign Trade

Expand upon the basic circular flow model to include the government and foreign sectors.

Hard

Fiscal Policy and Economic Output

Examine the impact of an expansionary fiscal policy in closing a recessionary gap. Describe the poli

Hard

Fiscal Policy Impact on GDP Components

Consider an economy where the government increases its spending by $100 billion. Using the expenditu

Medium

GDP Deflator and Inflation Adjustment

Economists use different price indices to measure inflation. Answer the following: Part A: A table

Hard

GDP Deflator Calculation and Comparison with CPI

In this question you will define the GDP deflator, perform a calculation using given data, and discu

Medium

Impact of Inflation Expectations on Interest Rates

Assess the role of inflation expectations in determining nominal interest rates and discuss the impl

Medium

Increase in Government Spending and Its Multiplier Effect

This question assesses your understanding of the multiplier effect in the context of government spen

Medium

Inflation and Its Impact on Labor Markets

Discuss how inflation affects labor markets, particularly the adjustment of wages and employment lev

Medium

Inflation, CPI, and Real Income Analysis

Evaluate how changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) affect the measurement of inflation and real

Medium

Investment and the Circular Flow

This question explores the role of investment within the circular flow model and its implications fo

Medium

Investment Spending and the Multiplier Effect

Analyze how investment spending influences GDP through the multiplier effect. Use the spending multi

Hard

Investment Spending and the Multiplier Effect

Examine how changes in investment spending can have amplified effects on the economy through the mul

Hard

Measuring Unemployment and Labor Force Participation

Examine the methods used to measure unemployment and the labor force participation rate. Calculate t

Medium

Real Income and Purchasing Power

Discuss the distinctions between nominal income and real income, and analyze how changes in the Cons

Easy

Real Versus Nominal GDP: A Comparative Analysis

Using provided data, calculate real GDP over time, analyze growth trends, and graph the trend to eva

Medium

Real vs Nominal GDP Computation

Calculate real GDP from given nominal GDP and the price index, and discuss the significance of real

Easy

Real vs. Nominal GDP

Compare and contrast nominal GDP and real GDP. Calculate real GDP from given data and discuss the im

Medium

Shadow Economy and Its Impact on GDP Measurement

Transactions in the shadow (underground) economy are not included in traditional GDP measures. Analy

Extreme

The Circular Flow Model and Economic Leakage/Injection

The circular flow model illustrates how leakages and injections affect overall economic activity. An

Medium

The Impact of Consumer Spending on GDP

Analyze the effect of an increase in consumer spending on GDP and discuss multiplier effects.

Hard

Types of Unemployment and Economic Implications

Different types of unemployment have varying causes and economic consequences. Analyze and provide r

Medium

Unemployment and Discouraged Workers

Analyze how the presence of discouraged workers affects the official unemployment rate and the perce

Medium

Unemployment Measurement and Analysis

Accurately measuring unemployment is critical for understanding economic health. Use the data and co

Medium

Unemployment Rate and Labor Force Participation Analysis

Given the following data for a country: total population (16 years and older) is 200 million, employ

Medium

Unemployment-Inflation Trade-Off: Phillips Curve Analysis

Analyze the relationship between unemployment and inflation using the Phillips Curve framework. Prov

Extreme
Unit 3: National Income and Price Determination

AD-AS Adjustments: Recessionary vs. Inflationary Gaps

Define and compare recessionary and inflationary gaps in the AD-AS model. Analyze the economic conse

Hard

AD-AS Equilibrium and the Impact of Market Expectations

This question investigates how market expectations, particularly regarding inflation, can affect the

Medium

Aggregate Demand and Its Components Analysis

Analyze the impact of shifts in the components of aggregate demand on overall economic activity. In

Medium

Aggregate Demand Components Analysis

Examine the components of aggregate demand and analyze how changes in consumer behavior can affect o

Easy

Automatic Stabilizers in Economic Downturns

During a recession, automatic stabilizers such as increased transfer payments and lower tax collecti

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Fiscal and Monetary Policy Effects

Compare and contrast the impact of expansionary fiscal policy and expansionary monetary policy on Ag

Hard

Components of Aggregate Demand and Curve Shifts

Aggregate Demand (AD) comprises four key components: consumption (C), investment (I), government spe

Easy

Components of Aggregate Demand and Economic Impacts

This question assesses your understanding of the components of aggregate demand (AD) and how changes

Medium

Comprehensive Analysis of AD-AS Equilibrium, Fiscal Policy, and Multipliers

This comprehensive question integrates multiple macroeconomic concepts including aggregate demand (A

Extreme

Contractionary Fiscal Policy in an Overheating Economy

Consider an economy operating above its full-employment level (an inflationary gap). The government

Extreme

Credit Crunch and AD Analysis

A sudden tightening in credit markets, commonly known as a credit crunch, affects borrowing and spen

Hard

Detailed Multiplier Analysis in a Fiscal Stimulus Scenario

This question challenges you to perform multiplier calculations and analyze the effects of a fiscal

Hard

Discretionary Fiscal Policy and Its Lags

Discretionary fiscal policy often suffers from implementation lags. Evaluate how these lags can affe

Medium

Effects of a Positive Technological Shock on the Economy

A sudden technological breakthrough increases productivity across multiple industries. Analyze how t

Medium

Evaluating Automatic Stabilizers in a Fluctuating Economy

Automatic stabilizers play a crucial role during economic fluctuations. Evaluate their effectiveness

Medium

Fiscal Multipliers and Policy Adjustments

The government aims to stimulate the economy by increasing GDP by $4 billion. In an economy where ho

Hard

Fiscal Policy and Net Exports Impact

Analyze the impact of an expansionary fiscal policy on domestic economic activity and international

Hard

Fiscal Policy Expansion versus Contraction

Discuss the differing impacts of expansionary versus contractionary fiscal policy on aggregate deman

Medium

Foreign Sector Effects on Aggregate Demand

Analyze how changes in the foreign sector, such as a depreciating domestic currency, affect aggregat

Medium

Foreign Sector Influence on Aggregate Demand

Examine how changes in foreign income and exchange rate movements influence aggregate demand, partic

Hard

Foreign Sector Influences on Aggregate Demand

This question examines how foreign sector dynamics, such as changes in exchange rates, affect aggreg

Hard

Foreign Sector Substitution Effect on the AD Curve

Rising U.S. price levels have led consumers to substitute domestic goods with cheaper imported alter

Hard

FRQ 3: Tax Multiplier Calculation

Evaluate the tax multiplier and its impact on aggregate demand using provided data.

Medium

FRQ 4: Short-Run Aggregate Supply and Price Levels

Examine how changes in input prices affect the short-run aggregate supply (SRAS) in the macroeconomy

Medium

FRQ 5: Equilibrium in the AD-AS Model: Recessionary and Inflationary Gaps

Analyze the differences between recessionary and inflationary gaps in the AD-AS framework and illust

Medium

FRQ 6: Long-Run Aggregate Supply and Economic Growth

This question focuses on the long-run aggregate supply (LRAS) and the determinants of economic growt

Medium

FRQ 6: Self-Adjustment Mechanism in Recessionary Gaps

Using economic theory, describe the self-adjustment process that enables an economy to move from a r

Hard

FRQ 9: Multiple Effects on Aggregate Demand: Foreign, Interest Rate, and Wealth Effects

Market dynamics can be influenced by various effects when the aggregate price level changes. Part A

Extreme

FRQ 10: Globalization and the Foreign Sector Substitution Effect

Analyze how globalization and the foreign sector substitution effect can influence domestic aggregat

Hard

FRQ 12: Wealth Effect and Consumption Patterns

Explore how changes in wealth affect consumer spending and aggregate demand in the macroeconomy.

Easy

FRQ 13: Impact of Consumer Sentiment on Aggregate Demand

Consumer sentiment plays a vital role in determining the consumption component of aggregate demand.

Medium

FRQ 14: Fiscal Policy, Spending, and Tax Multipliers in a Recession

Analyze the roles of spending and tax multipliers in fiscal policy during a recession.

Hard

FRQ 14: Long-Run Self-Adjustment in the AD-AS Model

This question requires you to analyze the self-adjustment mechanism in the AD-AS framework. Part A:

Hard

FRQ 15: Determinants of Short-Run Aggregate Supply (SRAS)

Factors such as input prices and government regulations can shift the short-run aggregate supply cur

Medium

FRQ 16: Deriving the Spending and Tax Multipliers from Consumer Behavior Data

Using consumer behavior data, derive the spending multiplier and the tax multiplier, and explain the

Easy

Government Spending and Unemployment Reduction

Evaluate the role of increased government spending as a tool for reducing unemployment in an economy

Medium

Government Spending Efficacy in Addressing Recessionary Gaps

Evaluate the effectiveness and potential risks of using expansionary fiscal policy, specifically inc

Medium

Graphing Fiscal Policy Effects on the AD-AS Model

Fiscal policy is a fundamental tool for addressing output gaps. Evaluate how an expansionary fiscal

Hard

Inflationary Gap and Policy Response

An economy operating above its full-employment level encounters rising inflationary pressures. Analy

Hard

Interpreting Macro Data: Consumption, Investment, Government Spending, and Net Exports

This question involves analyzing macroeconomic data to compute aggregate demand and gain insights in

Hard

Loanable Funds Market and Interest Rates: Government Borrowing Impact

This question explores the effects of increased government borrowing on the loanable funds market an

Hard

Long-Run Adjustments: Shifts in LRAS and Policy Implications

This question investigates how changes in technology and resources shift the long-run aggregate supp

Hard

Long-Run Self-Adjustment in a Recessionary Gap

An economy experiences a recessionary gap without any active fiscal or monetary intervention. Over t

Hard

Multiplier Effects and Fiscal Policy Stimulus

Examine the operation of multiplier effects in fiscal policy. Use given parameters to calculate both

Medium

Multiplier Effects of Fiscal Policy

This question addresses the multiplier effect in the context of fiscal policy adjustments. (a) Defi

Medium

Multiplier Effects: Spending vs Tax Multipliers

Analyze the multiplier effect in the macroeconomy. Differentiate between the spending multiplier and

Medium

Recessionary Gap in the AD-AS Model

This question examines your ability to use the AD-AS model to describe and analyze a recessionary ga

Medium

Recessionary Gaps and the Role of Automatic Stabilizers

An economy facing a recessionary gap must stimulate growth without needing new legislative action. E

Medium

Shifts in Short-Run Aggregate Supply Due to Input Price Changes

This question focuses on understanding how changes in input prices impact the short-run aggregate su

Medium

Short-Run Adjustment and AS Shocks

The economy often undergoes self-adjustment in the short run after experiencing shocks. Analyze the

Medium

Short-Run Aggregate Supply and Demand Adjustments

Using the aggregate demand and aggregate supply (AD-AS) model, assess the impact of increased govern

Medium

Spending and Tax Multipliers in Stimulating GDP

This question examines the application of spending and tax multipliers to predict changes in GDP fol

Hard

Spending vs. Tax Multipliers Analysis

Assume an economy where the marginal propensity to consume (MPC) is 0.8 (implying MPS = 0.2). The go

Hard

Supply Shock and SRAS Shift

A sudden increase in global oil prices causes an adverse supply shock in the economy. Analyze how th

Hard

Supply-Side Policies and SRAS Shifts

Evaluate how supply-side policies, such as deregulation, affect the short-run aggregate supply (SRAS

Medium

Tax Policy and Tax Multipliers

Investigate the impact of changes in taxation on aggregate demand by exploring the concept of the ta

Medium

Technological Advancements and the Long-Run Aggregate Supply Shift

Suppose a breakthrough in technology increases labor productivity, thereby expanding the economy's p

Hard

The Role of Consumer Confidence in Aggregate Demand

Consumer confidence can significantly impact the aggregate demand in an economy. (a) Describe how c

Easy
Unit 4: Financial Sector

Bank Deposits and the Role of the Monetary Base

This question explores the distinction between bank deposits and the monetary base, and their roles

Easy

Central Bank Communication and Market Expectations

Discuss the role of central bank communication in shaping market expectations, and analyze its effec

Medium

Comparing Equity vs Debt Financing: Stocks vs Bonds

This question explores the differences between equity financing (stocks) and debt financing (bonds).

Easy

Comparing Monetary Policy Tools: Discount Rate vs. Reserve Requirements

The Federal Reserve employs various tools to influence the economy. Compare the discount rate and th

Hard

Effects of Changes in the Federal Discount Rate

This question explores the role of the discount rate in monetary policy and its impact on bank behav

Medium

Equity Financing vs Debt Financing

Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of equity and debt financing for a firm facing investment

Hard

Expansionary vs. Contractionary Monetary Policy

Monetary policy can be either expansionary or contractionary depending on economic conditions. In an

Medium

Foreign Demand and the Loanable Funds Market

Investigate how foreign demand for domestic assets influences the loanable funds market. Answer the

Hard

Fractional Reserve Banking and the Money Multiplier

Consider the process of fractional reserve banking and its effect on the money supply. Answer the fo

Medium

FRQ 1: Evaluating Investment Decisions Based on Expected Rate of Return

Using the provided table of assets, analyze which asset meets the firm's criterion for a physical as

Easy

FRQ 8: Determining Money Market Equilibrium

Solve for the equilibrium nominal interest rate in the money market and analyze the impact of a mone

Hard

FRQ 14: Risk and Return in Financial Assets

Analyze how risk and liquidity influence the rate of return of financial assets.

Hard

FRQ 17: Applying the Money Multiplier Concept

Discuss the money multiplier effect and illustrate how reserve requirements affect the expansion of

Easy

Global Capital Flows and the Loanable Funds Market

Analyze how international capital flows affect the domestic loanable funds market and the resulting

Extreme

Impact of Reserve Ratio Changes on Money Creation

Examine how changes in the required reserve ratio affect the money multiplier and overall money crea

Medium

Inflation and Borrowing Costs

This question investigates how inflation influences nominal and real interest rates and the subseque

Easy

Inflation and Its Impact on Investment Decisions

Analyze how inflation affects real interest rates and, in turn, investment decisions within an econo

Hard

Inflation, Nominal Rates, and Real Investment Returns

This question investigates how inflation and interest rates interact and influence investment return

Medium

Interest Rate Changes and Bond Pricing

Analyze how changes in nominal interest rates affect bond prices for a bond with a fixed coupon rate

Hard

Liquidity Preferences in Financial Markets

This question examines the concept of liquidity and its importance for different financial assets. A

Medium

Loanable Funds Market Analysis

Explain how government deficit spending affects the loanable funds market and the determination of r

Medium

Loanable Funds Market and Government Deficit Spending

This question explores how an increase in government deficit spending affects the loanable funds mar

Hard

Loanable Funds Market Dynamics

Examine the loanable funds market in terms of supply and demand and discuss the effects of fiscal po

Hard

Measurement of the Money Supply

Examine the definitions of M1 and M2 and discuss why the money supply is considered fixed at a given

Medium

Monetary Base and Its Role in Money Creation

This question examines the role of the monetary base in the money creation process. Answer the follo

Medium

Monetary Policy and Aggregate Demand: Short-Run Effects

This question analyzes how expansionary monetary policy influences aggregate demand and short-run ma

Hard

Money Market Dynamics

Evaluate the factors that influence shifts in the money market and how the central bank might counte

Hard

Money Market Equilibrium and Expansionary Policy

The money market plays a crucial role in setting the equilibrium interest rate. Consider the followi

Medium

Money Market Equilibrium and Monetary Policy

The money market is determined by the interaction of money demand and money supply. Use the provided

Medium

Money Market Equilibrium and Monetary Policy Impact

This question examines money market equilibrium and the effect of expansionary monetary policy on in

Hard

Open Market Operations and Their Impact on Money Supply

This question evaluates your understanding of how open market operations (OMOs) are used by the Fede

Medium

The Effects of Credit Cards on Money Supply

This question investigates why transactions using credit cards do not directly affect the monetary b

Easy

The Impact of the Required Reserve Ratio on Money Creation

This question investigates how variations in the required reserve ratio influence the money multipli

Medium
Unit 5: Long-Run Consequences of Stabilization Policies

Adjustment from Recessionary to Full Employment Equilibrium

An economy initially operates with a recessionary gap where actual real GDP is below full employment

Medium

Aggregate Price Measures and Inflation Calculation

This question assesses your ability to compute and interpret nominal GDP, the GDP deflator, and the

Easy

Analyzing Budget Deficits, Surpluses, and National Debt

Examine the concepts of budget deficits and surpluses, and analyze their relationship with the natio

Easy

Analyzing Stagflation and Policy Responses

Stagflation is a period when inflation and unemployment rise simultaneously. This situation poses a

Hard

Budget Deficits, National Debt, and Crowding Out

This question examines the impacts of fiscal deficits and national debt on the economy, particularly

Hard

Comparing Demand-Pull and Cost-Push Inflation

Inflation can be driven by demand-pull forces as well as cost-push pressures. Compare and contrast t

Hard

Comparing Expansionary Monetary and Fiscal Policies

Compare the short-run and long-run effects of expansionary monetary policy versus expansionary fisca

Hard

Computational Analysis using the Equation of Exchange

Using the equation of exchange, compute the effects of changes in the money supply on the price leve

Easy

Crowding Out Effect and Long-run Fiscal Implications

A government increases its spending during an economic downturn, leading to a higher budget deficit.

Hard

Deflation: Causes, Impacts, and Policy Responses

Deflation has complex effects on the economy and often results from a significant decline in aggrega

Hard

Effects of Expansionary Monetary Policy in the Money Market

Consider an economy where the central bank decides to increase the money supply. In this scenario, t

Medium

Evaluating the Impact of Infrastructure Spending on Long-Run Growth

The government launches a major infrastructure spending program aimed at improving transportation ne

Medium

Expansionary Fiscal Policy and AD-AS Analysis

An economy operating below full employment (with a recessionary gap) experiences expansionary fiscal

Medium

Fiscal Deficit, National Debt, and Long-Run Growth

Examine the long-run implications of persistent fiscal deficits and a high national debt on economic

Hard

Fiscal Deficits, Borrowing, and the Crowding Out Effect

The government runs a significant budget deficit and finances it by borrowing funds in the loanable

Hard

Fiscal Expansion and Crowding Out in the Loanable Funds Market

Examine the crowding out effect in the context of expansionary fiscal policy and its impact on the l

Medium

Fiscal Policy Impacts in Different Economic Phases

Compare the effects of expansionary fiscal policy when an economy is in a recessionary gap versus wh

Hard

FRQ 1: Loanable Funds Market – Government Borrowing Impact

Analyze how an increase in government borrowing affects the loanable funds market. In your response,

Medium

FRQ 3: Inflation Dynamics – Demand-Pull Versus Cost-Push

Compare and contrast demand-pull inflation with cost-push inflation and explain their implications f

Hard

FRQ 4: Phillips Curve Analysis – Inflation and Unemployment Trade-offs

Assess the relationship between inflation and unemployment using the Phillips curve framework. Your

Medium

FRQ 4: Phillips Curve Analysis – Short-Run vs. Long-Run

Examine the Phillips curve and discuss how the short-run trade-off between inflation and unemploymen

Medium

FRQ 12: Stagflation: Causes, Effects, and Policy Challenges

Stagflation is a challenging economic condition characterized by stagnant growth and high inflation.

Hard

FRQ 13: Economic Growth Analysis – Aggregate Production Function and Productivity

Evaluate how improvements in technology and increases in capital and labor affect economic growth. U

Medium

FRQ 20: Real World Application – A Case of Fiscal Restraint in Deficit Reduction

Using a real-world example, analyze the effects of fiscal restraint aimed at reducing a budget defic

Hard

Government Infrastructure Spending and Long-Run Economic Growth

Infrastructure spending is believed to have significant effects on long-run economic growth. Analyze

Medium

Impact of Contractionary Monetary Policy on AD and Inflation

In an economy experiencing rising inflation, the central bank decides to contract the money supply.

Medium

Impact of Infrastructure Spending on LRAS

Government spending on infrastructure is considered vital for long-run economic growth. Analyze the

Medium

Impact of Public Infrastructure Spending on Long-Run Economic Growth

Evaluate how government spending on infrastructure can influence long-run economic growth. Consider

Hard

Impact of Tax Incentives on Economic Growth

A government introduces an investment tax credit aimed at stimulating private sector investment. Thi

Medium

Inflationary Gap Adjustment: From Short Run to Long Run

This question addresses the dynamics of an inflationary gap creation due to an increased AD and the

Medium

Inflationary Gap Correction and Price Level Adjustment

An economy is operating above its full-employment level, resulting in an inflationary gap. In this q

Hard

Long-Run Consequences of Stabilization Policies: A Comprehensive Policy Analysis

Stabilization policies have profound long-run consequences for an economy. In this final question, y

Extreme

Monetary Policy and the Money Market

Describe how an increase in the money supply influences the money market and, in turn, affects broad

Easy

Monetary Policy for Recessionary Gap Correction

An economy experiencing a recessionary gap sees the central bank increase the money supply by 20% to

Medium

Monetary Policy Impact on the Loanable Funds Market

Monetary policy can indirectly influence the loanable funds market, affecting private investment. In

Medium

Phillips Curve: Trade-offs and Long-run Neutrality

The Phillips curve illustrates the trade-off between inflation and unemployment in the short run but

Hard

Policy Coordination: Balancing Fiscal and Monetary Actions

Evaluate how simultaneous fiscal and monetary policy adjustments can be coordinated to stabilize an

Medium

Public Debt, Interest Rates, and Private Investment: Exploring Crowding Out

High levels of public debt can have various impacts on the economy. Answer the following: (a) Descr

Hard

Public Policy and the Production Possibilities Curve

Public policy initiatives such as improved education and infrastructure can shift a country’s produc

Medium

Supply-Side Fiscal Policies and Economic Growth

This question examines how supply-side fiscal policies, such as tax incentives and investment credit

Medium

Supply-Side Fiscal Policy and Tax Incentives

Analyze the role of supply-side fiscal policy, particularly through tax incentives, in stimulating e

Medium

Tax Incentives, Investment, and Long-run Economic Outcomes

Assume the government introduces significant tax cuts for businesses. (a) Describe how these tax in

Hard

The Role of Monetary Policy in Stabilizing Short-Run Fluctuations

Monetary policy plays a crucial role in addressing short-run economic fluctuations. In this question

Medium

The Role of the Velocity of Money in Inflation

Using the quantity theory of money, analyze the effect of an increase in the money supply on the pri

Extreme

Wage-Price Spiral and Expected Inflation

The interaction of rising wages and prices can create a self-perpetuating cycle known as a wage-pric

Hard

Wage-Price Spiral and Its Economic Impact

A wage-price spiral is considered one of the most challenging inflation scenarios. Examine the dynam

Extreme
Unit 6: Open Economy—International Trade and Finance

Analyzing Net Export Changes Using Data

Analyze how fluctuations in the currency value influence net exports using the data provided in the

Easy

Comparative Fiscal Policy Impacts on Exchange Rates

Evaluate how differences in fiscal policy between regions can impact exchange rates. Your answer sho

Extreme

Comparing Tariffs and Quotas

The table below compares the effects of tariffs and import quotas on the domestic market for a given

Medium

Currency Appreciation and Depreciation: Causes and Consequences

This FRQ requires you to analyze the factors that determine whether a currency appreciates or deprec

Medium

Currency Depreciation and Outbound Capital Flows

Discuss how a depreciated domestic currency influences outbound capital flows and suggest policy mea

Hard

Current Account Deficits and Capital Inflows

In a given fiscal year, the U.S. records a current account deficit of $150 billion and a capital acc

Medium

Effects of Monetary Policy on Capital Flows

Investigate the relationship between domestic interest rate changes and international capital flows

Medium

Evaluating Monetary Policy Impact on Exchange Rates

This FRQ focuses on the transmission mechanism of monetary policy in an open economy. Analyze how co

Medium

Exchange Rate Equilibrium Analysis

Referring to the provided foreign exchange market graph, answer the following parts regarding equili

Hard

Fiscal Policy and Exchange Rate Movements

Evaluate how expansionary fiscal policy can affect both the exchange rate and aggregate demand. Use

Medium

Foreign Currency Demand Shifts: Causes and Consequences

Foreign currency demand can shift for several reasons. Evaluate the determinants behind these shifts

Hard

Foreign Exchange Market Equilibrium Analysis

Analyze the equilibrium in the foreign exchange market using provided data and explain the effects o

Medium

FRQ 4: The Role of Speculation in the Forex Market

Speculation in the forex market can create rapid fluctuations in exchange rates. This question focus

Hard

FRQ 8: Effects of Currency Appreciation on U.S. Exports

The appreciation of the domestic currency can have significant implications for a country’s export p

Medium

FRQ 11: Central Bank Intervention in the Foreign Exchange Market

During times of economic crisis, central banks may intervene in the foreign exchange market to stabi

Extreme

FRQ 13: Effects of Global Economic Conditions on Exchange Rates

Global economic conditions, such as rising incomes in foreign economies, can influence the demand fo

Medium

FRQ 20: Macroeconomic Policy Coordination in an Open Economy

Persistent current account deficits can undermine an open economy’s stability. This question require

Extreme

Impact of Fiscal Policy on Aggregate Demand and Net Exports

This FRQ explores how expansionary fiscal policy affects aggregate demand and subsequently influence

Hard

Impact of Tariffs on the Domestic Steel Market

Analyze the effects of imposing a protective tariff on imported steel.

Hard

International Capital Flow Shifts Amid Global Crises

Investigate the effects of a global financial crisis on international capital flows and the exchange

Extreme

Monetary Policy and International Asset Flows

Discuss how expansionary monetary policy impacts domestic interest rates and subsequently influences

Hard

Monetary Policy Impact on Exchange Rates

An expansionary monetary policy, such as an increase in the money supply, can have significant effec

Medium

Official Reserves and Balance of Payments Adjustments

The nation’s balance of payments must balance to zero. This is achieved in part by the official rese

Medium

Policy Trade-offs in Balancing BOP Deficits and Exchange Rate Stability

Critically evaluate the policy trade-offs that governments face when addressing persistent balance o

Extreme

Quotas vs. Tariffs: Evaluating Market Outcomes

Both quotas and tariffs are used to restrict imports, but they have different effects on the domesti

Medium

Real Interest Rate Differential and Capital Inflows

Analyze how differences in real interest rates between countries affect capital inflows and determin

Hard

Real Interest Rates and International Capital Flows

This FRQ explores how differences in real interest rates influence international capital movements.

Hard

Real Interest Rates and International Capital Flows

Discuss how differences in real interest rates between countries influence international capital flo

Hard

US Balance of Payment Analysis: Current and Capital Accounts

The United States publishes its balance of payments, which includes the current account and the capi

Easy

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Where can I find practice free response questions for the AP Macroeconomics exam?
The free response section of each AP exam varies slightly, so you’ll definitely want to practice that before stepping into that exam room. Here are some free places to find practice FRQs :
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Once you’re done reviewing your study guides, find and bookmark all the free response questions you can find. The question above has some good places to look! while you’re going through them, simulate exam conditions by setting a timer that matches the time allowed on the actual exam. Time management is going to help you answer the FRQs on the real exam concisely when you’re in that time crunch.
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Before you start writing out your response, take a few minutes to outline the key points you want to make sure to touch on. This may seem like a waste of time, but it’s very helpful in making sure your response effectively addresses all the parts of the question. Once you do your practice free response questions, compare them to scoring guidelines and sample responses to identify areas for improvement. When you do the free response practice on the AP Macroeconomics Free Response Room, there’s an option to let it grade your response against the rubric and tell you exactly what you need to study more.
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Answering AP Macroeconomics free response questions the right way is all about practice! As you go through the AP AP Macroeconomics Free Response Room, treat it like a real exam and approach it this way so you stay calm during the actual exam. When you first see the question, take some time to process exactly what it’s asking. Make sure to also read through all the sub-parts in the question and re-read the main prompt, making sure to circle and underline any key information. This will help you allocate your time properly and also make sure you are hitting all the parts of the question. Before you answer each question, note down the key points you want to hit and evidence you want to use (where applicable). Once you have the skeleton of your response, writing it out will be quick, plus you won’t make any silly mistake in a rush and forget something important.