44 STEP 3. Develop Strategies for Success
- You maynotuse calculator syntax to substitute for calculus notations. For example, you
maynotwrite “Volume=
∫(
π( 5 x)∧2,x,0,3)
= 225 π”; instead you need to write
“Volume=π∫^3
0( 5 x)^2 dx= 225 π.”- When using a graphing calculator to solve a problem, you are required to write the setup
that leads to the answer. For example, if you are finding the volume of a solid, you must
write the definite integral and then use the calculator to compute the numerical value,
e.g., Volume=π
∫^3
0( 5 x)^2 dx= 22. 5 π.Simply indicating the answer without writing the
integral is considered an incomplete solution, for which you would receive minimal credit
(possibly 1 point) instead of full credit for a complete solution.- Set your calculator to radian mode, and change to degree mode only if necessary.
- If you are using a TI-89 graphing calculator, clear all previous entries for variablesa
throughzbefore the AP Calculus BC exam. - You are permitted to store computer programs in your calculator and use them in the AP
Calculus BC Exam. Your calculator memories will not be cleared. - Using the[Trace]function to find points on a graph may not produce the required accu-
racy. Most graphing calculators have other built-in functions that can produce more
accurate results. For example, to find thex-intercepts of a graph, use the[Zero]function,
and to find the intersection point of two curves, use the[Intersection]function. - When decimal numbers are involved, do not round until the final answer. Unless oth-
erwise stated, your final answer should be accurate to three places after the decimal
point. - You may bring up to two calculators to the AP Calculus BC exam.
- Replace old batteries with new ones and make sure that the calculator is functioning
properly before the exam.
4.4 Taking the Exam
What Do I Need to Bring to the Exam?- Several Number 2 pencils.
- A good eraser and a pencil sharpener.
- Two black or blue pens.
- One or two approved graphing calculators with fresh batteries. (Be careful when you
change batteries so that you don’t lose your programs.) - A watch.
- An admissions card or a photo I.D. card if your school or the test site requires it.
- Your Social Security number.
- Your school code number if the test site is not at your school.
- A simple snackif the test site permits it. (Don’t try anything you haven’t eaten before. You
might have an allergic reaction.) - A light jacket if you know that the test site has strong air conditioning.
- Donotbring Wite Out or scrap paper.