AP Computer Science Principles Complete Study Guide (2026 Exam)
Master AP CSP for May 2026: 70 MCQs + Create Performance Task, five big ideas, exam format, and study plan.
Short answer: The 2026 AP Computer Science Principles exam is Thu, May 14, 2026 (12 PM Local). Create PT due Thu, Apr 30, 2026. — 70 MCQs, 180 minutes total, fully digital in Bluebook.
The 2026 AP CSP end-of-course exam is Thursday, May 14, 2026 (12 PM local). The Create Performance Task is due Thursday, April 30, 2026.
Exam Structure
Fully digital — 2 hours (MCQ section) plus Create PT submitted separately.
| Component | Weight |
|---|---|
| Section I (70 MCQs) | 70% |
| Create Performance Task (0–6 rubric) | 30% |
Big Idea Weights
| Big Idea | Topic | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Creative Development | 10–13% |
| 2 | Data | 17–22% |
| 3 | Algorithms and Programming | 30–35% |
| 4 | Computer Systems and Networks | 11–15% |
| 5 | Impact of Computing | 21–26% |
Big Ideas 3 + 5 = ~51–61% — algorithms and computing impact dominate.
Create PT Checklist
- Working program that solves a problem
- Video (≤1 min) showing input, output, and functionality
- Written responses explaining code, data, and development process
- Submit through AP Digital Portfolio by April 30
Study Plan
Weeks 1–2: Big Ideas 2–3 (data representation, algorithms, programming logic).
Weeks 3–4: Big Ideas 4–5 (internet, cybersecurity, impact of computing).
Week 5: Create PT finalization and submission.
Week 6: MCQ review — practice binary, algorithms, and internet protocol questions.
CSP score calculator · Practice tests
Related Guides
Sources: College Board AP Computer Science Principles CED (apcentral.collegeboard.org). Verified July 2026.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Create Performance Task?
A programming project submitted by April 30, scored 0–6 on a rubric. It counts for 30% of your AP score.
Do I need to know a specific language?
No. CSP is language-neutral for the exam MCQs. Your Create PT can use any language your teacher approves.
Is CSP easier than CSA?
CSP is broader and less coding-intensive. CSA is Java-focused programming. See our comparison guide.