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AP CSA FRQ Guide

2013 FRQ 2: TokenPass

Initialize a token game with random values and simulate distributing the current player tokens around a circular array.

Array State and Simulation22 minute targetarraysrandomsimulationmodulo

Skills Tested

What this FRQ is really practicing

arraysrandomsimulationmodulo

Review these topics before attempting the problem.

Starter Approach

How to begin with your own plan

  1. 1Constructor: create the board, assign random token values, and choose a random current player.
  2. 2Method: remove the current player tokens and distribute them one at a time to later players.

Attempt the problem before opening the solution.

Common Mistakes

Mistakes to watch for while writing

Changing currentPlayer before saving the tokens to distribute.
Forgetting to wrap around the board.
Giving all tokens to one player instead of one at a time.

Self Check

Review questions before you submit

Allocates the board array using playerCount.

Each player has one board slot.

Uses random values in the constructor.

Both initial tokens and current player are random in the archive prompt.

Sets the current player token count to 0 before distribution.

Store the number to distribute first.

Wraps distribution around the end of the array.

Use modulo or reset the index to 0.

Practice Links

Where to go next