Quantitative Analysis FRQ
Interpret charts, graphs, tables, trends, and correlations in political data and connect evidence to political concepts.
A lesson of AP United States Government and Politics, in AP Gov Writing and Exam Skills, about 10 minutes.
Quantitative Analysis in AP Government
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to read and interpret political data, charts, and maps, and use quantitative evidence in AP Government free-response questions.
The Quantitative Analysis FRQ (Q2)
AP Government Q2 presents a visual data source (a chart, graph, map, or table) and asks you to:
- Describe a pattern shown in the data
- Explain a concept that relates to the data
- Explain how the data relates to a broader political concept or institution
Types of Data You'll See
Bar charts and line graphs: commonly show voter turnout rates by demographic group, public approval ratings over time, or party identification trends.
Maps: often show election results by state or county, or geographic distribution of political attitudes.
Tables: may show poll results, demographic voting patterns, or congressional votes.
Scatterplots: may show relationships between two variables (e.g., income and party identification).
Reading Political Data: Key Skills
Find the trend or pattern:
- Is the data increasing, decreasing, or staying stable over time?
- Which group scores highest/lowest?
- What is the magnitude of difference between groups?
Avoid overstating:
- "Democrats significantly outperformed Republicans" is better than "Democrats destroyed Republicans"
- State what the data shows; don't overinterpret
Note what the data does NOT show:
- Correlation vs. causation
- A poll showing most Americans want policy X doesn't mean policy X will be enacted (gap between opinion and policy)
Example: Interpreting Turnout Data
Suppose a table shows:
| Age group | 2020 turnout |
|---|---|
| 18-24 | 51% |
| 25-44 | 62% |