<p>For practice our AP Chem class did the equilibria FR problems from 1995 to 1999. I did ok: all out of 9, I got an 8, a 6, two 5s, and a 4. My friend graded mine and I graded his, and pretty strict at that. However, the official answer keys offer no points for obtaining the correct answer in any way other than the official one on the answer key. Also, the answer keys said to deduct points if the general Keq expression wasn't written. (Like [H+][Cl-]/[HCl]); if I had values to calculate stuff but didn't write that expression, I lost a point. My basic question is how strict are actual graders (with all of that stuff and sig figs). My teacher said at a conference she heard that there are "unwritten" rules of accepted material and that the actual exams aren't graded as harsh as the answer keys suggest, but I just want to make sure. Any information is greatly appreciated.</p>
<p>they are very strict.
what the graders are basically given are a checklist of "material" or "phrases" that must be on your sheet. they do it for all AP tests (or generally, all). so you NEED to write how you got to your conclusion: every, single, step.</p>
<p>sometimes, you think it might be fine to skip a step thats elementary, but just write it down. it could cost you a 5. -.-</p>
<p>It's impossible to say. If that is the case, it certainly isn't with every grader. Just assume that they're all going to follow the Scoring Guideline completely and, therefore, pay attention to writing down the small details and using sig-figs.</p>
<p>yes, agreed. sig figs are IMPORTANT. and also, never round during calculations. round/use sig figs at the END. if you get 5.423, when the answer is 5.422, you will get marked wrong.</p>