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🔍 AP Research

Unit 1 – question and explore.

Big Idea 1 Overview: Question and Explore

Identifying a problem or issue and developing a question about it

Finding and organizing the information you need to answer the question

Evaluating the sources of information you use

Looking at the problem or issue from different perspectives

Unit 2 – Understand and Analyze

Big Idea 2 Overview: Understand and Analyze

Reading critically for a purpose

Explaining and analyzing the line of reasoning of an argument

Evaluating the evidence an author uses to support their argument

Assessing potential resolutions, conclusions, or solutions raised by an argument

Unit 3 – Evaluate Multiple Perspectives

Big Idea 3 Overview: Evaluate Multiple Perspectives

Identifying, comparing, and interpreting different perspectives on, or arguments about, an issue

Evaluating objections, implications, and limitations of different perspectives or arguments

Unit 4 – Synthesize Ideas

Big Idea 4 Overview: Synthesize Ideas

Formulating a well-reasoned argument

Using data and information from various sources to develop and support an argument

Linking evidence to claims

Offering resolutions, conclusions, or solutions based on evidence

Unit 5 – Team, Transform, and Transmit

Big Idea 5 Overview: Team, Transform, and Transmit

Planning, producing, and revising a research paper while considering audience, context, and purpose

Presenting an argument for context, purpose, and/or audience

Reflecting on one’s own and others’ writing, thinking, and creative processes

The Academic Paper

Academic Paper: Introduction

Academic Paper: Methodology

Academic Paper: Literature Review

Academic Paper: Discussion and Analysis

Academic Paper: Conclusion

Academic Paper: Bibliography and Citation Styles

Study Tools

2024 AP Research Exam Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

Is AP Research Hard? Is AP Research Worth Taking?

What is AP Research and How Do I Find a Topic of Inquiry?

How Can I Get a 5 in AP Research?

What Memes Are Perfect for AP Research?

AP Cram Sessions 2021

Download AP Research Cheat Sheet PDF Cram Chart

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Ultimate Guide to the AP Research Course and Assessment

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The Advanced Placement (AP) curriculum is administered by the College Board and serves as a standardized set of year-long high school classes that are roughly equivalent to one semester of college-level coursework. Although most students enroll in an actual course to prepare for their AP exams, many others will self-study for the exams without enrolling in the actual AP class.

AP classes are generally stand-alone subjects that easily translate to traditional college courses. Typically, they culminate in a standardized exam on which students are graded using a 5-point scale, which colleges and universities will use to determine credit or advanced standing. Starting in fall of 2014, though, this traditional AP course and exam format has begun to adapt in efforts by the College Board to reflect less stringent rote curriculum and a heavier emphasis on critical thinking skills.

The AP Capstone program is at the center of these changes, and its culmination course is AP Research. If you are interested in learning more about the AP Research Course and Assessment, and how they can prepare you for college-level work, read on for CollegeVine’s Ultimate Guide to the AP Research Course and Assessment.

About the Course and Assessment

The AP Research course is the second of two classes required for the AP Capstone™ Diploma . In order to enroll in this course you need to have completed the AP Seminar course during a previous year. Through that course, you will have learned to collect and analyze information with accuracy and precision, developed arguments based on facts, and effectively communicated your conclusions. During the AP Research course, you apply these skills on a larger platform. In the AP Research course, you can expect to learn and apply research methods and practices to address a real-world topic of your choosing, with the end result being the production and defense of a scholarly academic paper. Students who receive a score of 3 or higher on both the AP Seminar and AP Research courses earn an AP Seminar and Research Certificate™. Students who receive a score of 3 or higher on both courses and on four additional AP exams of their choosing receive the AP Capstone Diploma™.    

The AP Research course will guide you through the design, planning, and implementation of a year-long, research-based investigation to address a research question of interest to you. While working with an expert advisor, chosen by you with the help of your teacher, you will explore an academic topic, problem, or issue of your choosing and cultivate the skills and discipline necessary to conduct independent research and produce and defend a scholarly academic paper. Through explicit instruction in research methodology, ethical research practices, and documentation processes, you will develop a portfolio of scholarly work to frame your research paper and subsequent presentation of it.

Although the core content and skills remain standardized for every AP Research course, the implementation of this instruction may vary. Some AP Research courses may have a specific disciplinary focus wherein the course content is rooted in a specific subject, such as AP Research STEM Inquiries or AP Research Performing and Visual Arts. Similarly, other AP Research courses are offered in conjunction with a separate and specific AP class, such as AP Research and AP Biology wherein students are concurrently enrolled in both AP courses and content is presented in a cross-curricular approach. Alternatively, AP Research may be presented in the form of an internship wherein students who are already working with a discipline-specific expert adviser conduct independent studies and research of the student’s choosing while taking the AP Research class. Finally, some AP Research courses are delivered independently as a research methods class. In this style of class, students develop inquiry methods for the purpose of determining which method best fits their chosen topic of inquiry/research question, and each student then uses a selected method to complete his or her investigation.    

Only schools that currently offer the AP Capstone Diploma may offer the AP Research course. Because it is a part of a larger comprehensive, skills-based program, students may not self-study for the AP Research course or final paper. At this time, home-schooled students, home-school organizations, and online providers are not eligible to participate in AP Capstone.

Your performance in the AP Research course is assessed through two performance tasks. The first is the Academic Paper, which accounts for 75% of your total AP score. In this paper, you will present the findings of your yearlong research in 4,000-5,000 words. Although the official submission deadline for this task is April 30, the College Board strongly recommends that this portion of your assessment be completed by April 15 in order to allow enough time for the second of your performance tasks.

The second performance task is your Presentation and Oral Defense, which accounts for the remaining 25% of your total AP score. Using your research topic, your will prepare a 15-20 minute presentation in an appropriate format with appropriate accompanying media. Your defense will include fielding three to four questions from a panel consisting of your AP Research teacher and two additional panel members chosen at the discretion of your teacher.    

In 2016, fewer than 3,000 students submitted an AP Research project, but enrollment is projected to grow rapidly, since 12,000 students took the AP Seminar assessment in 2016 and most will presumably go on to submit an AP Research project in 2017. Scores from the 2016 AP Research projects reveal a high pass rate (score of three or higher) but a difficult rate of mastery. While 67.1% of students taking the assessments scored a three or higher, only 11.6% received the highest score of a five, while nearly 40% received a three. Only 2% of students submitting research projects received the lowest score of one.    

A full course description that can help to guide your planning and understanding of the knowledge required for the AP Research course and assessments can be found in the College Board course description .

Read on for tips for successfully completing the AP Research course.

How Should I Prepare for the AP Research Course?

As you undertake the AP Research course and performance tasks, you will be expected to conduct research, write a scholarly paper, and defend your work in a formal presentation.   Having already completed the AP Seminar course, these skills should be familiar to you. You should use your scores on the AP Seminar performance task to help guide your preparations for the AP Research performance tasks.

Carefully review your scores from AP Seminar. Make sure you understand where points were lost and why. It may be helpful to schedule a meeting with your AP Seminar teacher to review your work. Alternatively, your AP Research teacher may be willing to go over your AP Seminar projects with you. You might also ask a classmate to review your projects together to get a better idea of where points were earned and where points were lost. Use this review as a jumping point for your AP Research studies. You should go into the course with a good idea of where your strengths lie, and where you need to focus on improving.

A sample timeline for the AP Research course is available on page 36 of the course description . One detail worth noting is that the recommended timeline actually begins not in September with the start of the new school year, but instead begins in May with the completion of the AP Seminar course during the previous school year. It is then that you should begin to consider research topics, problems, or ideas. By September of the following school year, it is recommended that you have already finalized a research question and proposal, completed an annotated bibliography, and prepared to begin a preliminary inquiry proposal for peer review.    

What Content Will I Be Held Accountable For During the AP Research Course?

To be successful in the AP Research class, you will begin with learning to investigate relevant topics, compose insightful problem statements, and develop compelling research questions, with consideration of scope, to extend your thinking.   Your teacher will expect you to demonstrate perseverance through setting goals, managing time, and working independently on a long-term project. Specifically, you will prepare for your research project by:

• Identifying, applying, and implementing appropriate methods for research and data collection
• Accessing information using effective strategies
• Evaluating the relevance and credibility of information from sources and data
• Reading a bibliography for the purpose of understanding that it is a source for other research and for determining context, credibility, and scope
• Attributing knowledge and ideas accurately and ethically, using an appropriate citation style
• Evaluating strengths and weaknesses of others’ inquiries and studies

As in the AP Research course, you will continue to investigate real-world issues from multiple perspectives, gathering and analyzing information from various sources in order to develop credible and valid evidence- based arguments. You will accomplish this through instruction in the AP Research Big Ideas, also called the QUEST Framework. These include:

• Question and Explore: Questioning begins with an initial exploration of complex topics or issues. Perspectives and questions emerge that spark one’s curiosity, leading to an investigation that challenges and expands the boundaries of one’s current knowledge.
• Understand and Analyze Arguments: Understanding various perspectives requires contextualizing arguments and evaluating the authors’ claims and lines of reasoning.
• Evaluate Multiple Perspectives: Evaluating an issue involves considering and evaluating multiple perspectives, both individually and in comparison to one another.
• Synthesize Ideas: Synthesizing others’ ideas with one’s own may lead to new understandings and is the foundation of a well-reasoned argument that conveys one’s perspective.
• Team, Transform, and Transmit: Teaming allows one to combine personal strengths and talents with those of others to reach a common goal. Transformation and growth occur upon thoughtful reflection. Transmitting requires the adaptation of one’s message based on audience and context.

In addition, you will use four distinct reasoning processes as you approach your research. The reasoning processes are situating, choosing, defending , and connecting . When you situate ideas, you are aware of their context in your own perspective and the perspective of others, ensuring that biases do not lead to false assumptions. When you make choices about ideas and themes, you recognize that these choices will have both intended and unintentional consequences. As you defend your choices, you explain and justify them using a logical line of reasoning. Finally, when you connect ideas you see intersections within and/or across concepts, disciplines, and cultures.

For a glossary of research terms that you should become familiar with, see page 62 of the course description .

How Will I Know If I’m Doing Well in the AP Research Course?

Because your entire score for the AP Research course is determined by your research paper and presentation, which come at the very end of the course, it can be difficult to gauge your success until that point. Do yourself a favor and do not wait until your final scores come back to determine how successful you have been in the course.

As you undertake the AP Research course, there will be many opportunities for formative assessments throughout the semester. These assessments are used to give both you and your teacher an idea of the direction of instruction needed for you to master the skills required in the AP Research course. You should use these assessments to your advantage and capitalize on the feedback you receive through each. A list of possible activities used for these assessments can be found on page 41 of the course description .

Another way that you and your teacher will track your progress is through your Process and Reflection Portfolio (PREP). The PREP serves to document your development as you investigate your research questions, thereby providing evidence that you have demonstrated a sustained effort during the entire inquiry process. You will review your PREP periodically with your teacher, who will use it as a formative assessment to evaluate your progress.

Throughout the course, you will be assigned prompts and questions to respond to in your PREP. You will use this portfolio to document your research or artistic processes, communication with your expert adviser, and reflections on your thought processes. You should also write freely, journaling about your strengths and weaknesses with regard to implementing such processes and developing your arguments or aesthetic rationales. 

Your final PREP should include:

• Table of contents
• Completed and approved proposal form
• Specific pieces of work selected by the student to represent what he or she considers to be the best showcase for his or her work. (Examples might include: in-class (teacher-directed) free-writing about the inquiry process, resource list, annotated bibliography of any source important to the student’s work, photographs, charts, spreadsheets, and/or links to videos or other relevant visual research/project artifacts, draft versions of selected sections of the academic paper, or notes in preparation for presentation and oral defense.)
• Documentation of permission(s) received from primary sources, if required — for example, permission(s) from an IRB or other agreements with individuals, institutions, or organizations that provide primary and private data such as interviews, surveys, or investigations
• Documentation or log of the student’s interaction with expert adviser(s) and the role the expert adviser(s) played in the student’s learning and inquiry process (e.g., What areas of expertise did the expert adviser have that the student needed to draw from? Did the student get the help he or she needed — and if not, what did he or she do to ensure that the research process was successful? Which avenues of exploration did the expert adviser help the student to discover?)
• Questions asked to and feedback received from peer and adult reviewers both in the initial stages and at key points along the way
• Reflection on whether or not the feedback was accepted or rejected and why
• Attestation signed by the student which states, “I hereby affirm that the work contained in this Process and Reflection Portfolio is my own and that I have read and understand the AP Capstone TM Policy on Plagiarism and Falsification or Fabrication of Information”

It cannot be stressed enough how important it is to maintain strong communications with your teacher as you progress through the AP Research course. Not only is your teacher your best resource for learning new skills and knowledge, but also it is your teacher who will be responsible for grading your final performance tasks and as such, you should always have a strong understanding of how your work is being assessed and the ways in which you can improve it. Remember, your teacher wants you to succeed just as much as you do; work together as a team to optimize your chances.

How Should I Choose a Research Topic?

You will begin to consider research topics before the school year even starts. If your AP Research class is offered in conjunction with another course, such as those rooted in a specific subject or linked to another concurrent AP course, you will have some idea of the direction in which your research should head. Regardless of whether you know the precise subject matter of your topic, you should begin by asking yourself what you want to know, learn, or understand. The AP Research class provides a unique opportunity for you to guide your own learning in a direction that is genuinely interesting to you. You will find your work more engaging, exciting, and worthwhile if you choose a topic that you want to learn more about.

As you begin to consider research topics, you should:

• Develop a list of topics and high-level questions that spark your interest to engage in an individual research project
• Identify potential expert advisers to guide you in the planning and development of your research project (For tips on how to find a mentor, read CollegeVine’s “ How to Choose a Winning Science Fair Project Idea ”)
• Identify potential opportunities (if you are interested) to perform primary research with an expert adviser during the summer, via internships or summer research projects for high school students offered in the community and local higher education institutions
• Discuss research project planning skills and ideas with students who are currently taking or have already taken the AP Research course

You might also find inspiration from reading about past AP Research topics. One list of potential research questions can be found here and another can be found here . Keep in mind that these lists make great starting points and do a good job of getting you thinking about important subjects, but your research topic should ultimately be something that you develop independently as the result of careful introspection, discussions with your teacher and peers, and your own preliminary research.

Finally, keep in mind that if you pursue a research project that involves human subjects, your proposal will need to be reviewed and approved by an institutional review board (IRB) before experimentation begins. Talk with your teacher to decide if this is the right path for you before you get too involved in a project that may not be feasible.

Once you have decided on a research topic, complete an Inquiry Proposal Form. This will be distributed by your teacher and can also be found on page 55 of the course description .

How Do I Conduct My Research?

By the time you begin your AP Research course, you will have already learned many of the basics about research methods during your AP Seminar course. You should be comfortable collecting and analyzing information with accuracy and precision, developing arguments based on facts, and effectively communicating your point of view. These will be essential skills as you move forward in your AP Research project.

As you undertake your work, remember the skills you’ve already learned about research:

• Use strategies to aid your comprehension as you tackle difficult texts.
• Identify the author’s main idea and the methods that he or she uses to support it.
• Think about biases and whether other perspectives are acknowledged.
• Assess the strength of research, products, and arguments.
• Look for patterns and trends as you strive to make connections between multiple arguments.
• Think about what other issues, questions, or topics could be explored further.

You should be certain to keep track of all sources used in your research and cite them appropriately. The College Board has a strict policy against plagiarism. You can read more about its specifics on page 60 of the course description .

How Do I Write My Paper?

Before you begin writing your final paper, make sure to thoroughly read the Task Overview handout which will be distributed by your teacher. If you would like to see it beforehand, it can be found on page 56 of the course description . You should also review the outline of required paper sections on page 49 of the course description .

Your paper must contain the following sections:

› Introduction

› Method, Process, or Approach

› Results, Product, or Findings

› Discussion, Analysis, and/or Evaluation

› Conclusion and Future Directions

› Bibliography

Before you begin writing, organize your ideas and findings into an outline using the sections listed above. Be sure to consider how you can connect and analyze the evidence in order to develop an argument and support a conclusion. Also think about if there are any alternate conclusions that could be supported by your evidence and how you can acknowledge and account for your own biases and assumptions. 

Begin your paper by introducing and contextualizing your research question or problem. Make sure to include your initial assumptions and/or hypothesis. Next, include a literature review of previous work in the field and various perspectives on your topic. Use the literature review to highlight the gap in the current field of knowledge to be addressed by your research project. Then, explain and justify your methodology, present your findings, evidence, or data, and interpret the significance of these findings. Discuss implications for further research or limitations of your existing project. Finally, reflect on the project, how it could impact its field, and any possible next steps. Your paper should conclude with a comprehensive bibliography including all of the sources used in your process.

Make sure to proofread and edit your paper yourself, have it proofread and edited by a friend, and then proofread and edit it again before you complete your final draft.

How Do I Prepare For My Oral Defense?

Once your paper is finished, you may be tempted to sit back and rest on your laurels. Although you’ve no doubt expended a tremendous about of energy in producing a final product you can be proud of, don’t forget that the work is not over yet. Your oral defense accounts for 25% of your total score so it should be taken seriously.

Your oral defense is a 15-20 minute presentation that uses appropriate media to present your findings to an oral defense panel. You may choose any appropriate format for your presentation, as long as the presentation reflects the depth of your research. If your academic paper was accompanied by an additional piece of scholarly work (e.g., performance, exhibit, product), you should arrange with your teacher for him or her, along with the panelists, to view the scholarly work prior to your presentation.

As you plan your presentation, consider how you can best appeal to your audience. Consider different mediums for your presentation, and how those mediums might affect your credibility as a presenter. You want to be engaging to your audience while still being taken seriously.

Following your presentation, you will field three or four questions from your panelists. These will include one question pertaining to your research or inquiry process, one question focused on your depth of understanding, and one question about your reflection throughout the inquiry process as evidenced in your PREP. The fourth question and any follow-up questions are at the discretion of the panel. A list of sample oral defense questions begins on page 52 of the course description . For a complete outline of the oral defense, see page 49 of the course description . 

How Will My Work Be Assessed?

Because this assessment is only available to students enrolled in the AP Capstone program, your teacher will register you for the assessment when you enroll in the course. You should confirm with your teacher that you are registered for the assessment no later than March 1. 

You will submit your final paper and complete your oral presentation no later than April 30, at which point your teacher will submit your work and scores through an AP Digital Portfolio. Your presentation will be scored by your teacher alone. Your paper will be scored by your teacher and validated by the College Board.

You may find the scoring rubric from the 2016 performance tasks available here . You may find a collection authentic student research papers and scoring explanations available here .

Preparing for any AP assessment can be a stressful process. Having a specific plan of attack and a firm grasp of how your work is assessed will help you to feel prepared and score well. Use CollegeVine’s Ultimate Guide to the AP Research Course and Assessment to help shape your understanding of the course and how to complete your performance tasks effectively. When submission day arrives, you should feel better prepared and informed about the work you have produced.

For more about information about APs, check out these CollegeVine posts:

• Can AP Tests Actually Save You Thousands of Dollars?

• Should I Take AP/IB/Honors Classes?

• How to Choose Which AP Courses and Exams to Take

• What If My School Doesn’t Offer AP or IB Courses?

• Are All APs Created Equal in Admissions?

Want access to expert college guidance — for free? When you create your free CollegeVine account, you will find out your real admissions chances, build a best-fit school list, learn how to improve your profile, and get your questions answered by experts and peers—all for free. Sign up for your CollegeVine account today to get a boost on your college journey.

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RUBRIC REVIEW #1

Sample Peer Reviewed Paper - Good Generic Model

Sample Peer Reviewed Paper - Another Good Generic Model

LINKS  To AP Research Materials, Assignments, Deadlines

Prerequisite Skills

Statistics Page

Bibliography & Literature Review Materials

Inquiry Proposal Form & PREP

Analysis of Data/Findings

Capstone Academic Research Paper

Presentation & Oral Defense

AP Research Workbook   (List of Methods Page 98)  

Library of Congress Subject Headings (LOCSH) On-line Catalog

LOCSH Alphabetical PDF Lists

Vanessa’s Data

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HALL OF FAME PAPERS - #5 score places you among the best of the best

Here are the six “5" papers from 2019 as judged by College Board:

Perception of Women in Leadership

By Rachel Feldman 19’ 

Self-Affirmation as a Stress Buffer in High School Student’s Cognitive Ability 

By Denice Higareda, 19'

General Perceived Self-Efficacy and the Struggles of Test Anxiety 

By  Gabby Holquin, 19'

The Effects of School Resource Officers on Feelngs of School Connectedness and Safety 

By Stephanie Mier, 19'

Determining the Factors that Influence One’s Opinions on Globalization Within Youth 

By Zareh Shahinian, 19'

Adolescent Exposure to Sad Music 

By Jessica Wong, 19'

Here are the eight “5" papers from 2018 as judged by College Board:

Personality and Tempo: Exploring the Relationship Between   Music and Cognition           

By Matthew Bacon, 18'

Gender Differences in Attitudes Towards   STEM Among High School Students                     

  By Alexis Bui, 18'

Human Evaluation of Machine Translation   

By Tanvi Kharkar, 18'

Parasocial Relationships: A Study Concerning Adolescents Media Engagement

& Interaction   By Cambria Meadows, 18'

The Acting White Accusation: an examination of academic achievement, perceived educational benefits, and peer influence among high school students    By Success Ufondo, 18’

Relationship Between Factors of Behavior &  Length of Stay in Dogs Housed in A No Kill Animal Shelter      

By John Wargowski, 18’

Placebo Sleep and Student Cognition: Examining the Power of Perception            

By Ethan Trunfio, 18’

What are High School Students Attitudes and Opinions Towards Physician Assisted Suicide?  

By Madina Safdari, 18'

Here are five “perfect" scores from 2017 as judged by College Board:

Youth Impulsivity Levels: Disordered Gambling & Substance Absue     By Diane Bui, 17'

A Study of Aesthetics and Hedonics in Photography      By Bria Rosenberg, 17’

Consequences of Texting Behaviors on Teen Romantic Relationships   By Goldy Faramarzyan, 17 ’

Paper By Valeria Robles, 17’ Coming Soon.

Here are three other “5" scores from 2017 as judged by College Board:

Effect of Dog Interactions on High School Students Mood & Anxiety   - By Anam, 17'

Hope’s Word Use in the Poetry of Anne Saxrton & Sylvia Plath   - By Hope Su, 17’

Korean Ethnic Identity & Assimiliation Levels of High School Students in an Ethinically Diverse Calfironia School   - By Esther Lee, 17'

Daring Sample Paper Employing A Delphi Research Method

A Study on Societal Attitudes Towards Terraforming Mars     By Nick Turcios, 17’   (BEWARE!!)

Course Introduction Materials

2018-9 AP Research Student Workbook  

2018-9 AP Research Course Two-Page Description

2018-9 AP Research Course & Exam Description Effective 2017

Moving From Preliminary Research To Literature Review

Research Notecard Template (Google Doc)

Mr. Nelson’s Opening Comments

AP Research Advice Highlights Capstone Class of 2017

AP Research Senior Advice To Juniors Excel All Responses

College Board Plagiarism Policy

Falsification & Fabrication  

Digital Portfolio Account Set-up

account.collegeboard.org/login/login

apcapstoneportfolio.collegeboard.org

  Student Account Set-up Instructions

media.collegeboard.com/digitalServices/pdf/ap/ap-capstone/ap-capstone-digital-portfolio-student-user-guide.pdf

Resume/LinkedIn Description

AP Seminar and AP Research are two innovative new courses that are at the heart of College Board’s Capstone diploma program.  To receive the Capstone diploma, students must receive a three or higher in both AP Seminar and AP Research , and receive a three or higher on four other AP exams. The Capstone program teaches the broad set of skills required to write publishable, academic research papers.  The following inventories the specific skills that I developed through Capstone .

·              Perform aligned research of peer-reviewed academic literature. 

·              Design research methods that align with past research.

·              Collect data relevant to an aligned research topic.

·              Curate quantitative and qualitative findings and analyze results.

·              Report key findings, conclusions and recommendations for future research.

·              Received a top score of “5 “in AP Seminar , a score attained by only 6% of all course participants.)  (Received a score of “4 “in AP Seminar , ranking in the top quarter of Capstone students worldwide.)

Get a recommendation statement (NOT A LETTER) from your Seminar teacher. 

Everyone in your GBF class endorse you for Research Skills.

FALL FINAL MATERIAL REQUIREMENTS  - Students must bring the following items to class on Wednesday, the day of final.  Deductions will be made for missing items.  Thank you.

TEACHER NOTES:

College Board on Falsification

Sample Oral Defense Presentation Slides

Denise’s Draft Slides

Vanessa’s Draft Slides

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PRELIMINARY ORAL DEFENSE PRESENTATION SCHEDULE

Saturday April 13  7:30-11:00AM

7:30am - 9:00am  Denice H, Gabby H, Daniel V

9:00am - 10:30am  Zareh S,  Stephanie M, Evana D

Thursday April 11, 2019 3:30-6:00PM

3:30pm - 5:00pm  Dakota E, Aaron C, Victoria D

4:30pm - 6:00pm Angel N, Melia L

Wednesday April 10, 2019 3:30-6:00PM  

3:30pm - 5:00pm  Stacy B, Jessica W., Vanessa F

  4:30pm - 6:00pm  Camille J, David Y

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MONDAY Presenters - Dakota, Stephanie

TUESDAY Presenters - Jessica, Rachel

Victoria Thursday Lunch

WEDNESDAY Presenters - David, Evans, Denice

THURSDAY Presenters - Stacy, Gabby, Camille

Zee, Victoria - Thursday Lunch

FRIDAY Presenters - Melia, Daniel, Aaron

Angel - Friday Lunch

AP Research Sample Papers: 

Autoimune Disease

Time for Dinner

Prompt Questions For Assessing Papers Above

Anam’s Paper   - Effect of Dog Interactions on High School Students Mood & Anxiety

Hope’s Paper   - Word Use in the Poetry of Anne Saxton & Sylvia Plath

Katie’s Paper   - Tear Analysis of Contact Lenses Using A Cell-Phone Based Fluorometric Assay Reader

Esther’s Paper - Korean Ethnic Identity & Assimilation Levels of High School Students in an Ethnically Diverse Californian High School

Diane’s Paper  -  Youth Impulsivity Levels: Disordered Gambling & Substance Abuse

A Study of Aesthetics and Hedonics in Photography     By Bria Rosenberg, 17’ (See Methods Section)

CONFIDENCE INTERVALS: Algebra 2 Hand-out That Explain Calculation & Interpretation of Confidence Intervals

Financial Incentives & Student Achievement

Ivan’s Monday Class Example

Bria’s Monday Class Example

Statistical Findings Worksheet

Student Sample IPF - Thank You Melissa

Sampling Survey Example: Attitudes Towards the LGBT Community Survey  - Thanks to Melissa  

Organizing Your Social Sciences Research Paper: Purpose of Guide

USC Research Guide - Set of articles that guide first-time students through the research process.

What Librarians Use To Create Research Pathfinders ,  Much Thanks To LE Spears  August 2017

Academic Research Databases  

August 22 SAMPLE LITERATURE:  IMPROVING IN-KENNEL PRESENTATION OF SHELTER DOGS THROUGH RESPONSE-DEPENDENT AND RESPONSE-INDEPENDENT TREAT DELIVERY

SAMPLE LITERATURE #2

SAMPLE LITERATURE #3

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AP Research

Learn all about the course and assessment. Already enrolled? Join your class in My AP.

Not a Student?

Go to AP Central for resources for teachers, administrators, and coordinators.

About the Course

In AP Research, you decide what to study. Curious about the impact of AI on society? You can make a project out of that. Are you passionate about social causes? Interested in climate change or mental health? You can research these, as well. In this course, you’ll learn about different research methods and will develop advanced research skills while researching a topic of your choice.

Skills You'll Learn

Conducting independent research

Analyzing sources and evidence

Applying context and perspective

Writing a college-level academic paper

Presenting research findings to an audience

Equivalency and Prerequisites

College course equivalent.

AP Research is an interdisciplinary course that encourages students to demonstrate critical thinking and academic research skills on a topic of the student’s choosing. To accommodate the wide range of student topics, typical college course equivalents include introductory research or general elective courses.

Recommended Prerequisites

Students must have successfully completed the AP Seminar course.

Assessment Date

Wed, Apr 30, 2025

11:59 PM ET

AP Research Performance Task Due Date

Submit your AP Research performance task as final in the AP Digital Portfolio by this date.

Course Content

Big idea 1: question and explore.

You’ll learn about the first step of doing research: inquiry and investigation.

You’ll practice:

• Identifying a problem or issue and developing a question about it
• Finding and organizing the information you need to answer the question
• Evaluating the sources of information you use
• Looking at the problem or issue from different perspectives

Big Idea 2: Understand and Analyze

You’ll learn to read, comprehend, and explain a perspective or argument.

• Reading critically for a purpose
• Explaining and analyzing the line of reasoning of an argument
• Evaluating the evidence an author uses to support their argument
• Assessing potential resolutions, conclusions, or solutions raised by an argument

Big Idea 3: Evaluate Multiple Perspectives

You’ll learn to compare and contrast different perspectives on an issue, idea, or problem so you can understand its complexity.

• Identifying, comparing, and interpreting different perspectives on, or arguments about, an issue
• Evaluating objections, implications, and limitations of different perspectives or arguments

Big Idea 4: Synthesize Ideas

You’ll learn to take information you’ve gathered, analyzed, and evaluated and use it to form your own conclusions and build your own argument.

• Formulating a well-reasoned argument
• Using data and information from various sources to develop and support an argument
• Linking evidence to claims
• Offering resolutions, conclusions, or solutions based on evidence

Big Idea 5: Team, Transform, and Transmit

You’ll learn peer review practices and how to communicate your ideas to an audience.

• Planning, producing, and presenting an argument while considering audience, context, and purpose
• Communicating information through appropriate media
• Using effective techniques to engage an audience

Credit and Placement

Search AP Credit Policies

Find colleges that grant credit and/or placement for AP Exam scores in this and other AP courses.

Course Resources

Ap research course and exam description.

This is the core document for the course. It clearly lays out the course content and describes the assessment and the AP Program in general.

AP Daily Videos

Once you join your AP class section online, you’ll be able to access AP Daily videos in AP Classroom. AP Daily videos cover every proficiency and skill outlined in the AP Research Course and Exam Description. Sign in to access them.

What Are Project Based AP Courses?

Learn how project based AP courses take you beyond the textbook and into a world of learning through hands-on exploration.

• Go to College Board Blog

More About Your Course

Participate in the ap capstone diploma program.

Learn more about the AP Capstone Diploma Program, and how you can participate. Taking AP Seminar and AP Research lets you study topics you love, learn key academic skills, and stand out to colleges.

AP Capstone Diploma Program Policies

Understand policies on plagiarism, participation, extended absence, and more for AP Seminar and AP Research students.

See Where AP Can Take You

AP Research can lead to a wide range of careers and college majors

Additional Information

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The Top 10 Most Interesting AP Research Topics

College Board’s Advanced Placement (AP) program can improve your academic performance and earn you college credits while in high school. If you participate in the AP Capstone program, you’ll have to conduct research in the second course, AP Research. To succeed, you’ll need to use your academic research skills to select your AP research topics.

Selecting a topic can be the most critical part of your research project, and it can also be the most difficult. To make it easier for you, we’ve provided some of the best examples of AP research topics as well as AP research questions.

Find your bootcamp match

What makes a strong ap research topic.

A strong AP research topic is well-defined. Because it will form the basis of your research, it should be clear enough that your target audience will be able to understand your project. It should also address a real-world issue relevant in the 21st century.

Tips for Choosing an AP Research Topic

• Choose what interests you. Don’t just go with what’s popular or what you think will get you the highest score. Make sure the topic you select is one you clearly understand and will be able to continue even when the research process becomes difficult.
• Make sure you understand the course requirements. Repeatedly refer to your assignment as you come up with a project idea. This will ensure that you have a clear grasp of what is expected of you.
• Consider the timeframe of your research process. A lot goes into the research process, so make sure you start looking for a topic as soon as possible. It may not seem this way at the beginning, but the course will go by quickly.
• Consider your research sources. Select a topic with a wide range of sources that you can draw from to build credible and valid evidence-based arguments.
• Consult your AP advisor. Whenever you have any questions about the research process, don’t be afraid to turn to your advisor for clarification. If you find it too difficult to narrow down a topic, you can also ask for help from other students.

What’s the Difference Between a Research Topic and a Research Question?

A research topic is the main idea for a research project. For instance, voting apathy is a general topic from which you can derive various history research paper topics such as “voter apathy among young people.”

A research question, on the other hand, is a question that your research seeks to answer. It is more specific than your research topic. It answers the how, what, and the why of your research. For example, for the research topic above, one research question could be “What are the effects of voter apathy among young people on civic participation?”

How to Create Strong AP Research Questions

A strong AP research question should be clear and precise. In other words, the question you are posing should be focused on a specific area and the language should be simple enough that the reader doesn’t require any further explanation of what you are trying to say. However, it should not be so narrow that it can be answered with a simple yes or no.

Top 10 AP Research Paper Topics

1. 3d-printed prosthetics for amputees.

In recent years, the field of 3D printing has made great strides, especially in the medical field. From prosthetics to 3D-printed skin for burn victims, scientists have figured out ways to help those who have physical challenges. If selected as a research topic, this would be an interesting way to discuss the future of rehabilitation and assistive devices.

2. The Pros and Cons of Subsidized Housing in the US

Subsidized housing is a housing policy aimed at giving low-income families access to affordable housing. This real-world issue has become quite a controversial topic. However, it is a great topic for your school project, especially if it has already been discussed in your AP Seminar course as one of the seminar topics.

3. Impact of Ocean Conservation on Climate Change

Global warming and climate change have become important topics all over the world. From a discussion of renewable energy to a study of the increase in wildfires, there are many approaches that you can take. Ocean conservation has become an important strategy in fighting climate change and would therefore be a perfect topic for an AP research paper.

4. The Role of Art Education in 21st Century Curricula

The importance of art in education has often been taken for granted. In recent decades, however, emphasis on STEM fields has raised questions about the role of art education and other humanities disciplines in modern education. Your research could focus on the benefits of art education for STEM students.

5. Food Waste Solutions in the US

According to the USDA, food waste accounts for 30 to 40 percent of the total food supply. This shows that food waste is a major environmental and economic problem. This is one of many real-world topics that would allow you to take an interdisciplinary approach, combining social sciences and environmental sciences, for instance.

6. Impact of Genetically Modified Organisms on the Environment

A genetically modified organism is a plant, animal, or other organism whose DNA has been artificially altered through bioengineering. There are many interesting albeit complex issues that can arise in research into the potential impact of GMOs on the environment.

7. Factors Contributing to Wealth Inequality in the US

Wealth inequality refers to the dissimilarities in the distribution of assets among people or groups of people. This research topic can be narrowed to focus on whether increasing minimum wages can decrease wealth inequality or on strategies for reducing the number of homeless children.

8. The Future of the Automotive Industry

Global car sales are expected to grow in the coming years. As the automotive industry is changing, this topic would be a great way to discover what these changes look like and how they will affect the industry. Selecting this for your project proposal would be a good way to build on what you learned in your AP Physics C: Mechanics class.

9. The Relationship Between Cyber Security and Ecommerce

Ecommerce is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the economy. However, as more people and businesses move to online transactions, there is growing concern about cyber security threats. A first step if you choose this topic would be to familiarize yourself with cyber security terminology .

10. Youth Voting and Civic Participation Patterns

This is an interesting research topic through which you can discuss the relationship between voting and civic participation in young people, the influence of social media on voting patterns, and whether voting trends are affected by the socioeconomic conditions of a particular youth group. One common research question is whether the voting age should be changed.

Other Examples of AP Research Topics & Questions

Ap research topics.

• Effects of stress on the human body
• The fall of the Roman Empire
• The rise of cryptocurrency and its effect on the banking industry
• The relationship between social media and bullying in schools
• Homeschooling versus traditional schooling

AP Research Questions

• How does emotional stress manifest physically in the human body?
• What political developments led to the fall of Rome?
• How has cryptocurrency affected the banking industry in the 21st century?
• How has social media influenced the rise of cyberbullying?
• What are the effects of texting on grammar skills?

Choosing the Right AP Research Topic

As we have seen above, there are many AP research topics to choose from for your research assignment. The research paper is your primary performance task in the AP Research course, so you should take care to select a strong topic.

Completing the College Board’s AP Capstone is a significant academic achievement that will put your academic writing skills and research abilities to the test. Choosing the right AP research topic is therefore paramount in helping you build your college profile, especially if you want to get into an Ivy League School .

AP Research Topics FAQ

Your AP research paper should be between 4,000 and 5,000 words. Your evaluation will be based on not only the word count but also your introduction, content, structure, conclusion, and use and documentation of sources.

The AP research assignment is graded on a scale of one to five, depending on how well you do on your academic paper and oral defense. You can visit the AP Research student page for further information about grading.

No, there are no AP research topics that are off-limits. The AP Capstone program aims at developing students who are independent critical thinkers, so don’t shy away from a topic just because it’s controversial.

The difference between AP and AP Capstone is that AP Capstone is a two-year diploma program that requires you to take the AP Seminar and AP Research courses, whereas AP is a general term for the Advanced Placement program. College Board offers both programs.

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AP Research Topics: History, Chemistry, Psychology & More

Have you ever found yourself so wrapped up in a project that you forget to check the time? That's what happens when you choose the right AP Research topic. Whether you're curious about how technology shapes our lives or fascinated by the ways people think, picking good AP research paper topics can make your experience more than just another assignment—it can be an adventure.

AP Research is a course that lets high school students dig deep into a subject they care about. It gives you a chance to think critically and create something truly your own. But before you get started, you need to choose a topic that not only sparks your interest but also meets the course requirements. That's where we're here to help.

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What Does AP Research Do

AP Research allows you to take control of your learning. You'll learn how to ask the right questions, gather and analyze data, and present your findings in a way that's both clear and compelling.

One of the best parts is the freedom it offers. You're not just following a textbook—you're exploring something that genuinely interests you. This exploration can lead to impressive results, like the students who've used EssayPro's resources to write top-notch research papers. By connecting with experts and using reliable tools, they've turned their curiosity into polished projects that stand out.

Whether you're interested in social issues, science, or the arts, AP Research helps you develop skills that go beyond the classroom. You're able to solve problems and communicate your ideas effectively—all essential skills for college and beyond. And with the right support, like the guidance from EssayPro, you can take your research to the next level.

Don't miss out—check out our related article on why is critical thinking important for students and see how these skills can improve your AP Research process.

The List of AP Research Topics

Now that you know what this research is all about, it's time to find a topic that speaks to you. Having a good list of ideas can also make the process easier. Below, our expert admission essay services team gathered a selection of AP research paper topics that are not only interesting but also offer plenty of opportunities for deep exploration.

Best AP Research Topics

• How do urban heat islands affect local weather patterns and public health?
• The impact of early childhood education on long-term social and emotional development
• What are the effects of climate change on global water resources and availability?
• How do social movements utilize digital platforms to mobilize support and influence policy?
• The role of genetic engineering in agriculture: benefits and ethical concerns
• How do cultural differences influence the effectiveness of mental health interventions?
• The effects of gamified learning on student engagement and retention in STEM subjects
• How does the rise of remote work affect team dynamics and productivity?
• The influence of historical narratives on modern national identities
• What are the psychological and social impacts of long-term space travel on astronauts?
• The role of artificial intelligence in personalized medicine and its potential for transforming healthcare
• How do different teaching methods impact students with learning disabilities?
• The impact of environmental sustainability practices on corporate social responsibility
• What are the effects of food labeling on consumer behavior and dietary choices?
• How do societal attitudes toward aging affect elderly care and policies?
• The role of traditional knowledge in contemporary environmental conservation efforts
• How do different approaches to urban design influence community well-being and social interaction?
• The impact of digital detox practices on mental health and productivity in the workplace
• What can be learned from studying the long-term effects of major historical pandemics on societies?
• How do contemporary art movements challenge traditional notions of aesthetics and value?

Good AP Research Topics

Here are some more good topic choices curated by EssayPro. If you've found one you love, our experts are ready to offer help with writing an essay .

• How does the design of public spaces impact community engagement and safety?
• The influence of storytelling techniques on public awareness of social issues
• What are the effects of dietary changes on cognitive function in older adults?
• How do global supply chain disruptions affect local economies and businesses?
• The impact of bilingual education on cognitive development and academic performance
• How does exposure to different cultural perspectives shape attitudes toward global issues?
• What are the psychological effects of participating in extreme sports or adventure activities?
• How do social and economic factors influence access to clean drinking water in developing countries?
• The role of artificial intelligence in detecting and preventing cyber threats
• How do virtual communities influence real-world social interactions and relationships?
• The impact of renewable energy adoption on rural versus urban areas
• What are the effects of early intervention programs on children with developmental delays?
• How do different types of exercise affect mental health and stress levels?
• The influence of political satire on public opinion and political engagement
• What can be learned from the success and failure of international environmental agreements?
• How do personal finance education programs impact financial decision-making and stability?
• The effects of digital media consumption on attention spans and learning abilities in adolescents
• How does the portrayal of diversity in media affect societal attitudes and inclusion?
• The role of community gardens in promoting local food security and social cohesion
• What are the benefits and challenges of integrating technology into traditional classroom settings?

AP Seminar Topics

These AP Seminar research topics are sure to inspire and engage you. They're practical and interesting, perfect for exploring important issues.

• How has the rise of influencer culture altered consumer trust in advertising?
• The impact of urban farming initiatives on food security in densely populated cities
• What role do emerging technologies play in the future of remote education?
• How does the portrayal of mental health in media affect public perceptions and stigma?
• The influence of digital privacy concerns on the development of new technologies
• How do alternative justice systems, like restorative justice, impact community rehabilitation?
• The effects of gamification on student motivation and learning outcomes in education
• What can the evolution of language in internet memes tell us about cultural shifts?
• How do local art movements contribute to global conversations on social justice?
• The role of wearable technology in personal health monitoring and its implications for privacy
• How does the concept of 'ethical fashion' challenge traditional fashion industry practices?
• What are the psychological effects of participating in online communities versus physical communities?
• The influence of microdosing psychedelics on creativity and productivity in professional settings
• How do fictional narratives in popular media shape our understanding of historical events?
• The impact of virtual reality therapy on treating phobias and PTSD
• What role does citizen science play in advancing environmental research and policy?
• How do different cultures approach the concept of work-life balance, and what can we learn from them?
• The effects of digital art on the traditional art market and artist recognition
• How does the rise of autonomous vehicles impact urban planning and traffic management?
• The role of narrative in shaping public perceptions of scientific research and technology

AP World History Research Paper Topics

• How did the Silk Road influence cultural exchange between Asia and Europe?
• The impact of the Mongol Empire on global trade and communication
• The role of women in ancient Egyptian society
• What led to the fall of the Roman Empire?
• Exploring the causes and effects of the Protestant Reformation
• The significance of the Magna Carta in shaping modern democracy
• How did the Black Death reshape European societies in the 14th century?
• The rise and fall of the Byzantine Empire
• What were the key factors in the success of the Ottoman Empire?
• The influence of Confucianism on Chinese government and society
• How did the Age of Exploration change global economies and cultures?
• The impact of colonialism on Indigenous populations in the Americas
• What were the causes and consequences of the French Revolution?
• The development and spread of Islam during the Middle Ages
• How did the Industrial Revolution transform societies in Europe and beyond?
• The influence of Greek philosophy on Western thought
• What were the driving forces behind the unification of Germany?
• The role of the Transatlantic Slave Trade in shaping the modern world
• How did World War I lead to major political changes in Europe?
• The cultural and technological achievements of the Gupta Empire in India

AP US History Research Paper Topics

• The causes and effects of the American Revolution
• How did the Louisiana Purchase shape the future of the United States?
• The role of women in the American Civil War
• What were the main challenges faced by the early colonies in America?
• The impact of the Emancipation Proclamation on the Civil War
• How did the Gold Rush influence westward expansion in the United States?
• The significance of the Monroe Doctrine in American foreign policy
• What were the key factors leading to the Great Depression?
• The influence of the Harlem Renaissance on American culture
• How did the Civil Rights Movement change American society?
• The causes and consequences of the Mexican-American War
• What role did the New Deal play in America's recovery from the Great Depression?
• The impact of World War II on American domestic life
• How did the Cold War shape US foreign and domestic policies?
• The significance of the Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education
• What were the driving forces behind the Women's Suffrage Movement?
• The effects of the Vietnam War on American society and politics
• How did the Watergate scandal change public trust in government?
• The influence of the Industrial Revolution on urbanization in America
• What were the causes and outcomes of the American involvement in World War I?

AP Lang Research Paper Topics

• How does the use of rhetorical questions in speeches influence audience engagement?
• The role of persuasive language in shaping public opinion during elections
• How does the choice of narrative perspective affect a reader's connection to a story?
• The impact of social media on modern journalism and news reporting
• What are the linguistic techniques used in effective political debates?
• How do advertising slogans use language to create brand identity and consumer loyalty?
• The influence of Shakespeare's use of imagery on modern literary analysis
• How does the use of irony in literature enhance thematic elements?
• The role of dialogue in character development in contemporary novels
• How does language in public health campaigns affect community behavior and awareness?
• What are the rhetorical strategies used in motivational speeches to inspire action?
• The impact of tone and mood in setting the atmosphere in Gothic literature
• How do different genres of writing, such as satire and tragedy, affect reader perception?
• The role of metaphor in political rhetoric and its impact on policy discussions
• How does the structure of an argumentative essay influence its persuasiveness?
• The effects of language simplification in educational materials on student comprehension
• How do authors use symbolism to convey deeper meanings in their works?
• The influence of cultural context on the interpretation of literary texts
• What are the effects of direct vs. indirect speech on character relationships in drama?
• How do historical speeches reflect the values and concerns of their time periods?

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AP Environmental Science Research Paper Topics

• The impact of deforestation on global biodiversity
• How does climate change affect polar ice caps and sea levels?
• The role of renewable energy in reducing carbon emissions
• What are the environmental consequences of plastic pollution in oceans?
• The effects of industrial agriculture on soil health
• How does urbanization contribute to habitat loss and species extinction?
• The importance of wetlands in maintaining ecological balance
• What are the challenges and benefits of sustainable farming practices?
• The role of environmental policies in protecting endangered species
• How does air pollution impact human health in urban areas?
• The significance of the ozone layer in protecting life on Earth
• What are the environmental impacts of fracking on water resources?
• The effects of climate change on coral reef ecosystems
• How does deforestation contribute to climate change?
• The importance of conservation efforts in preserving biodiversity
• What are the environmental benefits and challenges of electric vehicles?
• The role of national parks in protecting natural resources
• How do invasive species disrupt local ecosystems?
• The impact of overfishing on marine life and ocean health
• What are the environmental and social implications of e-waste?

AP Chemistry Research Paper Topics

• The process of photosynthesis and its chemical significance
• What are the effects of heavy metals on human health?
• The chemistry behind pharmaceuticals and drug development
• How do detergents and soaps work at the molecular level?
• The significance of oxidation-reduction reactions in energy production
• What are the chemical principles behind climate change mitigation efforts?
• The role of catalysts in speeding up chemical reactions
• How do acids and bases interact in everyday life?
• The importance of the periodic table in modern chemistry
• What are the environmental impacts of chemical fertilizers?
• The chemistry behind renewable energy sources like solar cells
• How do chemical bonds determine the properties of substances?
• The significance of pH in maintaining biological systems
• What are the applications of nanotechnology in medicine?
• The process and importance of water purification techniques
• How do greenhouse gases contribute to global warming?
• The role of chemical reactions in food preservation
• What makes enzymes so crucial in biochemical reactions?
• The chemistry of batteries and how they store energy
• How do polymers impact everyday products and the environment?

AP Biology Research Topics

• How do genetic mutations contribute to evolution?
• The role of enzymes in cellular processes
• What are the effects of climate change on animal migration patterns?
• The significance of the human microbiome in health and disease
• How do plants adapt to extreme environmental conditions?
• The impact of antibiotic resistance on public health
• What are the mechanisms of gene expression and regulation?
• The role of natural selection in shaping species diversity
• How do hormones regulate growth and development in organisms?
• The process of photosynthesis and its importance in the carbon cycle
• What are the effects of habitat destruction on biodiversity?
• The role of the immune system in defending against pathogens
• How do organisms maintain homeostasis in varying environments?
• The impact of invasive species on native ecosystems
• What are the genetic factors involved in inherited diseases?
• The process of cell division and its significance in growth and reproduction
• How do environmental toxins affect the nervous system?
• The role of symbiotic relationships in ecosystems
• What are the effects of pollution on aquatic life?
• The significance of epigenetics in gene expression and inheritance

AP Research Psychology Topics

• How do different parenting styles impact child development?
• The effects of sleep deprivation on cognitive performance
• What are the psychological impacts of social media addiction?
• The role of genetics vs. environment in determining intelligence
• How does mindfulness meditation influence stress levels?
• The effects of early childhood trauma on adult mental health
• What are the cognitive benefits of bilingualism?
• The impact of exercise on mental health and mood
• How do stereotypes and prejudices develop and affect behavior?
• The role of attachment theory in understanding romantic relationships
• What are the psychological effects of prolonged isolation?
• The influence of parental involvement on academic achievement
• How do cognitive biases affect decision-making?
• The effects of music therapy on anxiety and depression
• What are the psychological mechanisms behind placebo effects?
• How does exposure to violent media influence aggression?
• The role of self-esteem in coping with life challenges
• What are the effects of nutrition on cognitive function?
• How does early intervention in autism spectrum disorder affect developmental outcomes?
• The impact of stress management techniques on overall well-being

AP Capstone Research Topics

• How did the rise of digital nomadism change the concept of work-life balance?
• The impact of virtual reality on empathy and understanding of social issues
• How do small, community-based conservation efforts contribute to global environmental change?
• The role of crowdfunding in transforming startup culture and innovation
• What can ancient agricultural practices teach us about modern sustainable farming?
• How do storytelling techniques in video games influence player behavior and decision-making?
• The effects of cross-cultural exchanges on traditional art forms in the digital age
• What are the social and psychological impacts of living in a hyper-connected world?
• How do grassroots movements influence national policy changes?
• The role of biohacking in personal health and ethical considerations
• How do urban green spaces impact community well-being and social interactions?
• The influence of speculative fiction on real-world scientific advancements
• What are the psychological effects of experiencing extreme weather events on communities?
• How do traditional storytelling methods in indigenous cultures address modern social issues?
• The role of augmented reality in enhancing educational experiences and learning outcomes
• How do cultural festivals contribute to local economic development and global awareness?
• The impact of immersive theatre on audience engagement and social change
• What can historical patterns of migration reveal about current refugee crises?
• How do alternative economic models, like time banking, challenge traditional concepts of value and work?
• The effects of digital detox programs on mental health and productivity

AP English Language Research Paper Topics

• How does rhetoric influence public opinion in political speeches?
• The role of satire in social and political commentary
• How do language and style vary between formal and informal writing?
• The impact of social media on modern communication practices
• How does persuasive writing shape consumer behavior in advertising?
• The use of metaphor in shaping cultural narratives
• What are the linguistic features of effective storytelling in literature?
• How does the choice of diction affect the tone of a piece?
• The role of rhetorical devices in Martin Luther King Jr.'s speeches
• How do different genres of writing influence reader perception?
• The impact of globalization on language and communication styles
• How does the structure of a persuasive essay affect its effectiveness?
• The use of imagery and symbolism in shaping the reader's emotions
• How does the language used in news media influence public understanding of events?
• The role of ethos, pathos, and logos in crafting compelling arguments
• How does narrative voice affect reader engagement in memoirs and autobiographies?
• The influence of historical context on the language of classical literature
• How do language and rhetoric contribute to the development of national identity?
• The effects of censorship on literary expression and freedom
• How do authors use rhetorical strategies to address social justice issues?

Characteristics of a Good AP Research Paper

Strong AP research topics stand out due to several key features that ensure their impact. Here's what to keep in mind:

• Timeless Relevance: Select a topic that maintains its significance over time. Avoid subjects likely to become outdated quickly. Instead, focus on issues with long-term importance that can be referenced by future researchers.
• Supported by Credible Sources: Your research must be backed by reliable sources. For example, research supported by academic databases like JSTOR or publications from trusted institutions such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) adds credibility.
• Clear and Insightful Research Questions: Good questions help define the scope of your paper and shape your analysis, ensuring that your research is both relevant and insightful. For example, if your topic involves the impact of digital marketing, questions inspired by case studies from companies like Google or Adobe can provide a structured framework for your analysis.
• Specific Focus: Narrow your topic to address specific issues, avoiding overly broad subjects. For instance, if researching the effects of climate change, focus on a particular aspect such as its impact on urban agriculture.
• Logical Structure and Clarity: Ensure your paper has a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Each section should flow logically, with well-organized arguments and evidence. A clear structure helps readers follow your argument and enhances the overall readability of your paper.

By considering these pointers suggested by EssayPro, your paper will make a valuable contribution to your field of study. It'll also be easy for you to draw on the best practices and examples from leading research institutions and industry experts.

Tips for Choosing an AP Research Topic

Here are some useful tips to help you choose standout AP research topic ideas:

• Examine Current Trends: Look at recent news, technological advances, or social movements for inspiration. Topics like the effects of remote work on productivity or the rise of sustainable fashion can be both timely and impactful.
• Reflect on Your Passions: Whether it's a hobby, a cause, or a field you're curious about, your enthusiasm will make the research process more enjoyable and your writing more compelling.
• Seek Out Gaps in Existing Research: Identify areas where there's a lack of information or where current research is outdated. For example, if you notice few studies on the psychological effects of digital detoxes, that might be a unique angle worth exploring. EssayPro can also help you find existing research and identify gaps that need further investigation.
• Consult with Experts: Talk to teachers, mentors, or professionals in fields you're interested in. Their insights can help you identify important topics. You might also find useful examples and advice from Essaypro's expert writers.
• Consider Practical Applications: Choose a topic with real-world applications or implications. Researching the impact of new educational technologies on classroom dynamics, for example, can provide valuable insights and practical solutions.
• Look at Your Local Community: Local issues or events can offer unique and relevant topics. Investigate how local policies affect community health or how a local environmental issue is being addressed. These topics can provide fresh perspectives and direct relevance.
• Use Personal Experience: Leverage your own experiences or observations. If you've noticed a trend or issue in your daily life, such as the impact of social media on teen behavior, it can provide a unique and personal angle for your research.

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Annie Lambert

specializes in creating authoritative content on marketing, business, and finance, with a versatile ability to handle any essay type and dissertations. With a Master’s degree in Business Administration and a passion for social issues, her writing not only educates but also inspires action. On EssayPro blog, Annie delivers detailed guides and thought-provoking discussions on pressing economic and social topics. When not writing, she’s a guest speaker at various business seminars.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

Grey, S. (2024, August 7). What Is The AP Capstone Program? Everything You Should Know. Forbes . https://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/online-colleges/what-is-ap-capstone/