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 $AP Macroeconomics FRQs to get ready for the big day.

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  • Unit 1: Basic Economic Concepts (53)
  • Unit 2: Economic Indicators and the Business Cycle (34)
  • Unit 3: National Income and Price Determination (38)
  • Unit 4: Financial Sector (45)
  • Unit 5: Long-Run Consequences of Stabilization Policies (45)
  • Unit 6: Open Economy—International Trade and Finance (35)
Unit 1: Basic Economic Concepts

Aggregate Demand and Aggregate Supply Impacts on Macroeconomic Stability

This question requires you to analyze macroeconomic stability using the AD-AS framework.

Hard

Aggregate Demand and Supply Analysis

This question examines the aggregate demand (AD) and aggregate supply (AS) framework. Use diagrams a

Hard

Calculating Opportunity Cost in Resource Allocation

This question asks you to compute opportunity cost in a given resource allocation scenario and to an

Easy

Comparative Advantage and Gains from Trade

This question explores the concepts of absolute and comparative advantage, and how specialization an

Medium

Comparative Advantage and Trade Opportunities

Analyze trade between two countries and determine how specialization can lead to mutual gains.

Medium

Comparative Advantage in International Trade

Examine the role of comparative advantage in determining specialization and trade between countries.

Easy

Comparative Advantage in Trade Decisions

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

Hard

Comparative Analysis of Macro and Microeconomics

This question explores the differences between macroeconomics and microeconomics and examines their

Medium

Determinants of Supply and Shifting Curves

This question focuses on understanding the determinants of supply and the difference between movemen

Easy

Economic Decision-Making in Business: Balancing Costs and Benefits

Evaluate a firm's investment decisions by analyzing opportunity costs and net benefits.

Medium

Economic Growth and Contraction: Business Cycle Dynamics

Discuss the concepts of economic expansion and contraction, and analyze a simplified business cycle

Medium

Economic Growth and Efficiency

This question focuses on the relationship between economic growth, technological advancements, and e

Medium

Efficiency, Market Failure, and Government Intervention

In this question, you will explore the concepts of efficiency, market failure, and the potential rol

Hard

FRQ 6: Supply Determinants and Market Response

Analyze how various determinants of supply influence market equilibrium using the provided table on

Medium

FRQ 8: Technological Advancements and Production Possibilities

Explore the impact of technological improvements on production possibilities and opportunity costs.

Hard

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 14: Consumer Preferences and Market Equilibrium

Assess how changes in consumer tastes affect demand and market equilibrium, using graphical analysis

Easy

FRQ 15: Supply Shift Due to Increased Production Costs

Analyze how a rise in production costs affects the supply curve and the subsequent market equilibriu

Easy

FRQ 18: Evaluating Efficiency and Economic Growth through the PPC

Using the provided PPC graph, examine issues of productive and allocative efficiency, and analyze sh

Medium

FRQ 20: Strategic Resource Allocation in a Competitive Firm

A firm faces limited resources and must allocate them between producing Product A and Product B. Ana

Extreme

Government Intervention: Price Floors and Market Equilibrium

This question investigates the effects of government-imposed price floors on market equilibrium.

Medium

Government Policies and Market Equilibrium

This question examines how government policies, such as taxes, affect market equilibrium and overall

Hard

Government Taxation and Market Outcomes

Examine the effects of a per-unit tax on a competitive market through both a diagrammatic and analyt

Medium

Impact of Rising Labor Costs on Supply

A widget manufacturing firm faces a significant increase in labor costs due to rising wages. This in

Easy

Impact of Technological Advancements on Production

Examine the impact of technological innovations on production capabilities and economic output.

Medium

Impact of Technology on Production Possibilities and Economic Growth

This question examines how technological advancements can shift the Production Possibilities Curve (

Medium

Inflation and the Phillips Curve

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

Hard

Input Versus Output Analysis in Production

This question focuses on production functions and the concept of opportunity cost in reallocating re

Hard

Loanable Funds Market and Investment

Analyze the loanable funds market to understand the interaction between savers and borrowers. Comple

Medium

Market Disequilibrium Analysis during Price Controls

This question explores how government-imposed price controls, such as price ceilings or floors, lead

Hard

Market Disequilibrium and Price Adjustments

This question focuses on market disequilibrium, exploring how surpluses and shortages are resolved t

Medium

Market Efficiency and Failures

Assess market efficiency by discussing productive and allocative efficiency and how market failures

Medium

Market Equilibrium and Disequilibrium

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

Medium

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

Money Demand and Supply Analysis

Analyze the effects of an increase in money demand on the money market equilibrium. Consider the imp

Hard

Opportunity Cost in Consumer Decision-Making

This question focuses on understanding opportunity cost in the context of everyday consumer decision

Easy

Opportunity Cost in Factory Production

A factory uses its resources to produce either cars or trucks. The factory can produce a maximum of

Medium

Opportunity Cost in Production Decisions for Firms

This question investigates how a firm makes production decisions by analyzing opportunity costs when

Medium

Opportunity Costs in Personal Financial Decisions

This question examines how individuals make decisions based on opportunity costs, particularly in th

Medium

PPC and Economic Growth

In this question, you will analyze an economy's production possibilities and explore the concept of

Medium

Price Controls in a Competitive Market

Examine the impact of imposing a binding price ceiling on a competitive market. Analyze the conseque

Medium

Production Possibilities and Economic Efficiency

Examine the concept of production possibilities and efficiency. Answer each part using definitions,

Easy

Real-life Trade-Offs and Resource Allocation

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

Easy

Resource Reallocation and Efficiency on a PPC

Assess the implications of resource reallocation on efficiency using a production possibilities fram

Medium

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 Resource Allocation

This question explores how scarcity influences the allocation of resources and the resulting trade-o

Easy

Shifts in the Demand Curve: Causes and Effects

This question assesses your understanding of the determinants that cause shifts in the demand curve

Medium

Supply Determinants and Shifts Analysis

This question focuses on the determinants of supply using the ROTTEN acronym (Resources, Other good

Medium

Tax Implications on Supply Decisions in the Tobacco Industry

Consider a scenario where the government imposes an excise tax on tobacco products. This tax increas

Hard

Understanding Ceteris Paribus in Demand Analysis

Ceteris paribus ("all else equal") is a key assumption in economics when analyzing the demand for a

Easy

Unemployment and Economic Policy

Examine the different types of unemployment and discuss the policy tools available to combat cyclica

Medium
Unit 2: Economic Indicators and the Business Cycle

Assessing Economic Growth Using GDP Components

The components of GDP provide insight into the health of an economy. Answer the following: Part A:

Medium

Business Cycle Analysis

Using quarterly GDP growth rate data, analyze the phases of the business cycle in a hypothetical eco

Medium

Business Cycle Effects on Employment and Output

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

Hard

Calculating Real GDP Growth and Economic Performance

Using the relationship $$\%\,\Delta\,\text{Real GDP} = \%\,\Delta\,\text{Nominal GDP} - \%\,\Delta\,

Easy

Circular Flow Model with Government

Examine the augmented circular flow model that includes the government sector. Analyze the effects o

Medium

Comparative Analysis of GDP, GDP Deflator, and Inflation Rates

Understanding the relationship between GDP metrics and inflation is key in macroeconomic analysis. A

Hard

Comparing Nominal and Real GDP

Consider an economy where the nominal GDP for a given year is reported along with a price index. Ans

Medium

Costs Associated with Inflation

Explain the concept of inflation costs with an emphasis on menu costs and shoe-leather costs.

Medium

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 and Inflation Calculation Problem

This question examines your ability to compute the inflation rate using CPI data and helps you analy

Medium

Cyclical Unemployment and Policy Intervention

In a cyclical downturn, unemployment rises significantly. Suppose in an economy, the natural rate of

Medium

Effects of Inflation on Real Income

Kelsey earned a nominal income of $40,000 in 2014, when the CPI was 234.8. In 2015, her nominal inco

Easy

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 Business Cycles

In this question, you will analyze the role of expansionary fiscal policy during business cycle down

Extreme

Fiscal Policy and Economic Output

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

Hard

GDP Calculation and Inflation Analysis

Consider an economy that produces two goods—computers and smartphones. Using the data provided in th

Medium

GDP Calculation Using the Value-Added Approach

In this question, you will use transaction data from various stages of production to compute GDP usi

Medium

GDP Deflator versus CPI Comparison

Explain the differences between the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and the GDP Deflator in measuring inf

Easy

Graphical Analysis of a Business Cycle

Analyze a business cycle using the provided graph and data. Answer the following: Part A: Examine t

Hard

Impact of Inflation Expectations on Interest Rates

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

Medium

Inflation and Its Impact on Labor Markets

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

Medium

Inflation’s Impact on Real Income and Purchasing Power

This question explores the relationship between nominal and real income in the context of inflation

Medium

Nominal vs. Real Income: Analysis of Purchasing Power

Examine the differences between nominal and real income. Calculate the effect of inflation on real i

Medium

Product Market Dynamics and GDP Fluctuations

This question explores how changes in the product market affect equilibrium outcomes and subsequentl

Hard

Real Income and Purchasing Power Analysis

This question examines the difference between nominal and real income and how adjustments using the

Easy

Real vs. Nominal Prices and Purchasing Power

Apply the concept of differentiating between real and nominal values to assess purchasing power.

Medium

Technological Change and Economic Productivity

This question analyzes how technological innovations impact aggregate productivity and examines thei

Extreme

Understanding Monetary Policy Through Money Market Graphs

Assume the central bank increases the money supply in the economy. Answer the following questions:

Medium

Understanding the Costs of Inflation

Evaluate the various costs of inflation and explain their economic implications.

Hard

Unemployment Measurement and Analysis

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

Medium

Unemployment Metrics and Labor Force Participation

This question requires you to calculate key labor market statistics and to explain the different typ

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

Value-Added Approach in the Circular Flow

Utilize the value-added approach to analyze how different stages of production contribute to GDP, an

Medium
Unit 3: National Income and Price Determination

Aggregate Demand and Its Components

Consider the concept of Aggregate Demand (AD) in the domestic economy. Explain the key components th

Easy

Aggregate Demand Components and Policy Instruments

Dissect the components of Aggregate Demand and assess how fiscal policy instruments can influence th

Hard

Aggregate Demand Components and Real GDP

Aggregate demand (AD) consists of several components that determine the overall level of economic ac

Easy

Aggregate Demand Shifts and Their Impact on Real GDP

This question evaluates your understanding of how changes in consumer sentiment affect aggregate dem

Easy

Analyzing Long-Run Aggregate Supply and Economic Growth

This question tests your understanding of long-run aggregate supply (LRAS) and its relationship to e

Medium

Components of Aggregate Demand and Economic Impacts

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

Medium

Credit Crunch and AD Analysis

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

Hard

Discretionary vs. Non-Discretionary Fiscal Policies

Analyze the differences between discretionary and non-discretionary fiscal policies. Discuss their r

Medium

Economic Forecasting with Fiscal Policy Adjustments

Utilize fiscal policy adjustments to forecast changes in GDP and discuss the limitations of the mult

Hard

Effects of Exchange Rates on Net Exports

Analyze the relationship between exchange rates and net exports, and assess how fiscal policy can in

Hard

Fiscal Expansion Strategies: Government Spending vs. Tax Cuts

A government aims to close a GDP gap of $30 billion through fiscal expansion. Given an MPC of 0.8, a

Extreme

Fiscal Policy Lags and Economic Stabilization

This question examines the concept of fiscal policy lags and their impact on the effectiveness of go

Extreme

Fiscal Policy Measures to Close a Recessionary Gap

This question examines the use of expansionary fiscal policy to close a recessionary gap in an econo

Hard

Fiscal Policy: Contractionary Measures to Control Inflation

This question addresses how contractionary fiscal policies are used to cool down an economy experien

Medium

Fiscal Policy: Expansionary Measures to Stimulate Aggregate Demand

This question explores how expansionary fiscal policy is used to stimulate aggregate demand during a

Easy

Fiscal Stimulus and Unintended Consequences in an Overheated Economy

Debate the potential unintended consequences of implementing expansionary fiscal policy in an econom

Extreme

Fiscal Stimulus for Economic Recovery

In times of recession, government intervention can help stimulate the economy. (a) Explain the rati

Extreme

Fiscal Stimulus: Spending vs. Tax Multipliers

Matthew, an economist, is evaluating a fiscal stimulus strategy. Given that the marginal propensity

Medium

FRQ 10: Automatic Stabilizers and Economic Fluctuations

Automatic stabilizers play a crucial role in moderating economic fluctuations without deliberate pol

Medium

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: 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 19: Automatic Stabilizers in Different Economic Conditions

This question evaluates your understanding of automatic stabilizers and how they operate in varying

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

Graphing the AD-AS Model: Identifying Economic Equilibrium

Construct and analyze an AD-AS diagram to illustrate economic equilibrium. Identify key characterist

Medium

Impact of Inflation on Various Economic Agents

In this problem, you will analyze a scenario with rising inflation and its effects on different part

Hard

Impact of Technology on Long-Run Aggregate Supply

Technological improvements can transform an economy's production capacity over time. (a) Describe h

Medium

Inflationary Gap Analysis Using the AD-AS Model

This question requires you to analyze the implications of an inflationary gap using the AD-AS framew

Medium

Interest Rate and Wealth Effects in AD

Examine the roles of the interest rate effect and the wealth effect in shaping the aggregate demand

Easy

International Trade and Fiscal Balance: A Two-Country Model

Evaluate the effects of fiscal policy differences between two countries on international trade balan

Extreme

Long-Run Aggregate Supply (LRAS) and Economic Growth

Discuss the concept of Long-Run Aggregate Supply (LRAS) and its significance in explaining economic

Easy

Multipliers in Economic Recovery: A Comparative Analysis

Discuss the role of the spending and tax multipliers in stimulating economic recovery during a reces

Medium

Negative Supply Shock: Effects on Equilibrium

Consider an economy that experiences a negative supply shock due to a sudden increase in energy pric

Hard

Output Gap Analysis via the AD-AS Model

An economy has a full-employment output (GDPf) of $2 trillion but is currently producing only $1.8 t

Medium

Policy Mix in Recession with Supply Shock

In an economy experiencing both a recessionary gap and a negative supply shock, critically evaluate

Extreme

Recessionary Gaps and the Role of Automatic Stabilizers

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

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

Supply Shocks and Economic Stability

Analyze the effects of supply shocks on economic stability and discuss potential policy responses to

Medium
Unit 4: Financial Sector

An Analysis of Money Supply Definitions: M1 and M2

The money supply is measured using different aggregates such as M1 and M2. Analyze these measures an

Easy

Bond Pricing and the Inverse Relationship with Interest Rates

Bond prices and interest rates share an inverse relationship. Answer the following: (i) Explain why

Medium

Comparative Analysis of Monetary Policy Tools

Central banks use various tools to influence the money supply. Answer the following: (i) Compare op

Hard

Comparing Equity Financing and Debt Financing

Firms have options for raising funds through either equity or debt financing. Examine the following

Hard

Deficit Spending and Loanable Funds Demand

This question focuses on how government deficit spending influences the demand for loanable funds. A

Hard

Digital Payments and Money Demand Shift

The growing adoption of digital payment systems may influence traditional measures of money demand.

Medium

Discount Rate and Reserve Requirement Adjustments

Changes in the discount rate and reserve requirements can significantly affect bank lending and the

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

Equity Financing vs. Debt Financing

This question evaluates the trade-offs that firms face when choosing between raising funds through e

Medium

Financial Asset Evaluation: Expected Return and Risk

A firm is considering an investment in a stock that has an expected rate of return of 8%. The firm’s

Medium

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

Fractional Reserve Banking and the Money Multiplier

This question examines the workings of fractional reserve banking and the concept of the money multi

Medium

FRQ 12: Loanable Funds Market - Supply Shifters

Analyze the factors that drive changes in the supply of loanable funds and their impact on the marke

Medium

FRQ 14: Risk and Return in Financial Assets

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

Hard

FRQ 15: Analyzing the Impact of Inflation on Savings

Investigate the relationship between inflation and real interest rates and its effect on saving beha

Medium

Functions and Measures of Money

This question explores the roles of money in the economy and the measurement of the money supply. An

Medium

Functions of Money in the Modern Economy

Discuss the various functions of money and evaluate how the type of money (fiat vs. commodity) influ

Easy

Graphical Representation of the Money Market

This question requires you to graphically represent the money market and analyze the impact of a dec

Medium

Impact of Monetary Policy on Aggregate Demand

This question examines how expansionary monetary policy influences aggregate demand and macroeconomi

Hard

Inflation and Its Impact on Investment Decisions

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

Hard

Inflationary Expectations and Financial Asset Valuation

This question analyzes how inflationary expectations affect the valuation of financial assets and th

Easy

Integration of Monetary Policy and the Loanable Funds Market: A Multi-Step Analysis

Consider a scenario where the Federal Reserve implements an expansionary monetary policy. Answer the

Extreme

Liquidity in Financial Markets During Economic Crises

Liquidity is a critical factor during economic downturns. Answer the following: (i) Define liquidit

Hard

Loanable Funds and Future Expectations

This question assesses how expectations regarding future economic conditions affect the loanable fun

Medium

Loanable Funds Market and Government Borrowing Impact

This question focuses on the impact of government borrowing on the loanable funds market. Consider a

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

Measuring Money Supply: M1 vs M2

This question focuses on the measurement of the money supply using definitions of M1 and M2 along wi

Easy

Monetary Policy and Aggregate Demand: Short-Run Effects

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

Hard

Monetary Policy and the Federal Funds Rate

The Federal Funds Rate is a crucial component in the execution of monetary policy. Consider the foll

Hard

Monetary Policy Effects on Aggregate Demand

Monetary policy is a key tool used by the Fed to influence economic activity. Answer the following:

Hard

Monetary Policy Effects on Aggregate Demand: An AD-AS Analysis

Expansionary monetary policy can shift aggregate demand and affect overall economic output. Evaluate

Medium

Monetary Policy Tools: Discount Rate versus Reserve Ratio

Compare the effectiveness of adjusting the discount rate versus the reserve ratio as tools of moneta

Extreme

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 Inflation

This question focuses on the interaction between money market equilibrium and changes in the price l

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 Money Supply

Explore the role of open market operations (OMOs) in regulating the money supply. Answer the followi

Medium

Open Market Operations and the Money Supply

Open market operations (OMOs) are a primary tool used by the Federal Reserve to manage the money sup

Easy

Open Market Operations and Their Impact

Discuss the role of open market operations (OMOs) in monetary policy and analyze their effects on th

Medium

Real vs. Nominal Interest Rates and Investment Decisions

This question assesses your understanding of nominal versus real interest rates and their impact on

Easy

Required Reserve Ratio and the Money Multiplier

This question explores the impact of changes in the required reserve ratio on the money multiplier a

Easy

Reserve Requirements and Economic Impact

Assess how changes in the reserve requirement affect bank lending and the broader economy.

Hard

Risk Premium and Its Effect on Bond Prices

Analyze how the risk premium affects bond prices and investor behavior in the fixed income market.

Hard

The Discount Rate and Its Economic Impact

Examine the role of the discount rate as a monetary policy tool and its broader economic implication

Medium

Transaction Demand vs. Asset Demand for Money

Examine the two components of money demand: transaction demand and asset demand. Answer the followin

Medium
Unit 5: Long-Run Consequences of Stabilization Policies

AD‐AS Analysis of Recessionary Gap Adjustment

Consider an economy that is operating below its full-employment level. In this question, you will us

Hard

Aggregate Production Function and Long-run Growth

The aggregate production function relates inputs like capital and labor to total output. Examine how

Medium

Analyzing Budget Deficits, Surpluses, and National Debt

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

Easy

Analyzing the Wage-Price Spiral

An economy is experiencing a wage-price spiral where rising wages lead to higher production costs, w

Extreme

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

Coordination of Fiscal and Monetary Policies during Deep Recession

An economy in a deep recession faces high unemployment and underutilized capacity. Analyze how a coo

Hard

Crowding Out Effect in the Loanable Funds Market

Analyze the crowding out effect that may occur when the government increases its borrowing to financ

Medium

Crowding Out: Analyzing the Loanable Funds Market

Examine the effects of government budget deficits on the loanable funds market and private investmen

Hard

Deflation: Causes, Impacts, and Policy Responses

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

Hard

Economic Growth: Production Possibilities and Aggregate Production Function

Discuss the determinants of long-run economic growth and illustrate how an economy's production poss

Medium

Evaluating Public Policy Initiatives in Economic Growth

Critically assess the impact of public policy initiatives such as increased education and infrastruc

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

Fiscal Stimulus and Short-Run Aggregate Demand

Evaluate the impact of fiscal stimulus on aggregate demand (AD) and discuss the short-run trade-offs

Medium

FRQ 2: Adjustment from Inflationary Gap: AD-AS Analysis

Examine the adjustment process in an inflationary gap scenario. Explain how an increase in aggregate

Medium

FRQ 2: Fiscal Policy and Crowding Out

Examine the role of expansionary fiscal policy in a recession and its potential to crowd out private

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 6: Cost-Push Inflation and the Wage-Price Spiral Dynamics

Analyze the phenomena of cost-push inflation and the wage-price spiral. Use a graphical representati

Hard

FRQ 11: Investment Tax Credits and Their Impact on AS and AD

Analyze the role of investment tax credits as a supply-side policy tool and their impact on aggregat

Medium

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 14: Trade-Offs in Inflation and Unemployment – Policy Analysis

Analyze the trade-offs between inflation and unemployment in the short run, and explain why this tra

Medium

FRQ 18: Fiscal Stimulus and Its Impact on National Output and Employment

Evaluate the effects of fiscal stimulus on national output and employment. Use the multiplier concep

Medium

FRQ 19: Public Policy and Infrastructure Spending – Effects on AD and LRAS

Examine how government spending on infrastructure can affect both aggregate demand and long-run aggr

Medium

Government Infrastructure Spending and Long-Run Economic Growth

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

Medium

Government Spending Multipliers and GDP Impact

Evaluate the concept of the government spending multiplier and its effect on overall economic output

Easy

Graphical Analysis of Demand-Pull Inflation

Illustrate and explain the process of demand-pull inflation using an AD-AS framework.

Easy

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

Inflation Adjustment Mechanisms in the AD-AS Model

Examine the process by which an inflationary gap is corrected in the economy, and discuss the role o

Medium

Inflationary Gap and Adjustment Mechanism

Analyze an economy experiencing an inflationary gap due to an excessive increase in aggregate demand

Medium

Inflationary Gap Correction via Contractionary Policies

When an economy operates above full employment (an inflationary gap), policymakers may use contracti

Hard

Investment Tax Credit and Its Effect on Aggregate Supply

Investment tax credits are used to stimulate capital investment and thereby shift the aggregate supp

Medium

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

Long-Run Economic Growth and Productivity Determinants

Long-run economic growth is driven by improvements in productivity. In this question, you will explo

Hard

Monetary Policy Effects on the Money Market and Investment

In an effort to stimulate economic activity, the central bank implements an expansionary monetary po

Hard

Monetary Policy Impact on the Loanable Funds Market

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

Medium

Phillips Curve Analysis: Short-Run Trade-off vs. Long-Run Neutrality

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

Hard

Quantity Theory of Money and Inflation

Discuss the Quantity Theory of Money and demonstrate how changes in the money supply can lead to inf

Easy

Quantity Theory of Money and Its Implications for Inflation

The quantity theory of money is a key concept linking the money supply to the price level. In this q

Medium

Supply-Side Policies and Economic Growth

Supply-side policies, such as tax cuts and increased investment in human capital, can shift the long

Medium

Technology Shocks and Shifts in SRAS

Technological improvements can reduce production costs and shift the short-run aggregate supply curv

Easy

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 Inflation Dynamics

Analyze the wage-price spiral phenomenon and its implications for sustained inflation. Propose poten

Hard
Unit 6: Open Economy—International Trade and Finance

Analyzing Balance of Payments Data

A country provides the following data for the year: • Goods and Services: Exports = $500 billion, I

Medium

Analyzing Short-Run Forex Market Adjustments

Examine a situation in which speculators cause shifts in the forex market. Use the provided graph to

Hard

Assessing the Impact of Demographic Changes on International Trade

This FRQ asks you to explore the impact of shifting consumer tastes, possibly driven by demographic

Easy

Comprehensive Analysis: Policy Shifts and International Economic Equilibrium

This FRQ requires a comprehensive analysis of a complex policy scenario involving simultaneous contr

Extreme

Determinants of Exchange Rates and Currency Movements

Consider the determinants that affect the value of exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the eu

Medium

Effects of Monetary Contraction on Domestic Markets

Analyze how a contractionary monetary policy affects domestic interest rates, capital flows, and the

Hard

Effects of Monetary Policy on Capital Flows

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

Medium

Exchange Rate Equilibrium Analysis

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

Hard

Exchange Rate Equilibrium: Solving with Supply and Demand Equations

This FRQ requires you to solve for the equilibrium exchange rate using given supply and demand funct

Hard

Exchange Rate Fluctuations and Speculation

Evaluate how changes in exchange rates occur due to trade dynamics and speculative behavior. Refer t

Medium

Exchange Rate Impact on Net Exports

Discuss the impact of a depreciating domestic currency on net exports using the information from the

Medium

Exchange Rate Implications for Multinational Investment Decisions

Examine how exchange rate fluctuations impact multinational investment decisions and assess how thes

Extreme

Fiscal and Monetary Policy Interactions: A Comparative Study

In this FRQ, you will analyze a scenario in which fiscal expansion and monetary contraction occur si

Extreme

Fiscal Policy and its Impact on Net Exports and Exchange Rate

This FRQ requires you to evaluate how fiscal policy actions can affect both domestic economic activi

Hard

Floating Exchange Rates and Domestic Economic Policy

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of a floating exchange rate system with respect to domestic

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

The following graph represents the foreign exchange market for U.S. dollars, with Quantity of dollar

Medium

Foreign Exchange Market Equilibrium Analysis

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

Medium

FRQ 6: Quota Effects on Domestic Consumption and the Trade Balance

This question examines the effects of an import quota on domestic markets and the foreign exchange m

Hard

FRQ 7: Analysis of Inbound and Outbound Capital Flows

Capital flows are a key component of the international financial system. In this question, you will

Easy

FRQ 9: Comparative Analysis of Tariffs and Quotas

Tariffs and import quotas are policy tools used to protect domestic industries, but they have differ

Medium

FRQ 10: Currency Appreciation and its Impact on Net Exports

An appreciating currency can affect a country’s international trade balance. This question explores

Medium

FRQ 10: Foreign Demand for Domestic Assets and Exchange Rate Movements

Foreign investors increasingly seek domestic assets. In this question, you will analyze how an incre

Hard

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

Impact of Protective Tariffs on Domestic Markets

Evaluate the economic impact of imposing a protective tariff. Your answer should address the followi

Medium

Impact of Rising Relative Incomes on Exchange Rates

The table below shows changes in income levels and corresponding changes in the value of various cur

Medium

Impact of Unexpected Capital Flows on the Foreign Exchange Market

This FRQ addresses the effects of unexpected capital flows on the exchange rate and net exports.

Extreme

Monetary Policy Impact on Exchange Rates

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

Medium

Policy Response to Trade Deficits

Assess the causes and potential solutions for a persistent trade deficit as reflected in a country's

Hard

Real Interest Rates and Currency Strength

Higher real interest rates tend to attract foreign investment, influencing currency appreciation. Ex

Hard

Relative Income and Exchange Rate Dynamics

National income differences can alter currency values. Explain how rising incomes in a foreign count

Medium

Speculation and Its Impact on Currency Markets

This FRQ examines the role of speculation in the foreign exchange market and its effect on currency

Medium

Speculative Attacks and Currency Depreciation

Evaluate a scenario where speculators engage in a speculative attack on a domestic currency.

Extreme

Tariffs and International Trade

Tariffs are imposed to protect domestic industries but can have several unintended economic effects.

Medium

Understanding Balance of Payments Components

Explain the three primary components of the balance of payments (current account, capital account, a

Easy

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FAQWe thought you might have some questions...
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 :
  • Of course, make sure to run through College Board's past FRQ questions!
  • Once you’re done with those go through all the questions in the AP MacroeconomicsFree Response Room. You can answer the question and have it grade you against the rubric so you know exactly where to improve.
  • Reddit it also a great place to find AP free response questions that other students may have access to.
How do I practice for AP AP Macroeconomics Exam FRQs?
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.
What are some tips for AP Macroeconomics free response questions?
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.
How do I answer AP Macroeconomics free-response questions?
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.