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
Treat these skills as the study checklist. If any tag feels shaky, review that topic before attempting the full written response.
Starter Approach
How to begin without copying a solution
- 1Constructor: create the board, assign random token values, and choose a random current player.
- 2Method: remove the current player tokens and distribute them one at a time to later players.
Write a first attempt before revealing any solution outline. Most AP CSA FRQ progress comes from tracing your own code and finding the missing case.
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