Exam Strategy

Readiness Check

You are ready when you can:

• Write (cos t, sin t) with correct domain for one CCW unit circle trip.
• Build (h + r cos t, k + r sin t) for a stated circle.
• Parametrize a segment between two points and verify endpoints.
• Rewrite or construct useful equivalent forms (1.B, 1.C).

Course vs AP Exam

Course scope only (Unit 4 additional topic; not on the AP Exam). These skills still matter for Unit 4 coursework and readiness for 4.5-4.6.

Tactics (course assessments)

1. Circle: identify center, radius, direction, domain. 2. Unit circle: start (1, 0) at t = 0 for standard CCW model. 3. Line: pick initial point and rates; solve for T if needed. 4. Check t = 0 and t = T at both endpoints. 5. Graph with technology when unsure (1.C).

Common Traps

• Wrong domain for full revolution.
• Radius applied to wrong component or wrong center sign.
• Line parametrization that misses (x2, y2).
• Treating (sin t, cos t) as standard CCW unit circle without noting swap.

Quick Checklist

• [ ] Correct (cos t, sin t) or transformed form
• [ ] Domain matches task (segment or full circle)
• [ ] Endpoints verified for lines
• [ ] Center/radius identified for circles
• [ ] Equivalent form useful for context