Exam Strategy
Statistics · AP · Inference for Quantitative Data — Slopes
CED focus
Introducing Statistics: Do Those Points Align?
This topic is assessed on the AP Exam.
Multiple-choice tips
- Match procedure to parameter and design before calculating.
- Match slope inference to regression output on MC.
- Eliminate correlation tests when slope inference is needed.
- Check linearity and residual conditions from descriptions.
- Interpret computer output labels (SE, t, p) correctly.
Free-response tips
- Use State–Plan–Do–Conclude with conditions and context throughout.
- Interpret β₁ slope in context with units.
- State hypotheses about the population slope.
- Comment on residual plot for conditions.
- Write a CI for the slope in a full sentence.
Common traps
- ‘Accept H₀’ wording or skipping conditions
- Testing correlation instead of slope
- Ignoring residual patterns for conditions
- Misreading regression computer output
Quick checklist
- [ ] Can interpret slope from regression output
- [ ] Can state conditions for regression inference
- [ ] Can write a slope CI in context