AP Computer Science Principles Cheat Sheet
A comprehensive resource for AP Computer Science Principles. This expertly crafted cheat sheet provides a concise overview of essential topics, including algorithms, data management, and computer systems, ensuring you are fully prepared for your exams.
Unit 1: Creative Development
- Computing Tools: software, hardware, IDEs, etc.
- Program Design: flowcharts, pseudocode, testing strategies
- Collaboration: roles, pair programming, code review, version control
- Algorithms: step-by-step procedures, sequencing, selection, iteration
- Problem-Solving Process: define, plan, implement, test, reflect
- Abstraction: simplifying complex problems by focusing on the main ideas
- Digital Representation: binary, data compression, and data storage
Unit 2: Data
- Data Types: numbers, strings, booleans, lists, etc.
- Data Representation: binary, hexadecimal, text (ASCII/Unicode)
- Data Collection: surveys, sensors, databases, web scraping
- Data Storage: cloud, local storage, databases
- Data Analysis: filtering, sorting, visualizing with graphs/charts
- Big Data: large datasets, machine learning, predictive analysis
- Data Security: encryption, privacy laws (GDPR, HIPAA)
Unit 3: Algorithms & Programming
- Programming Languages: high-level vs. low-level, syntax, semantics
- Variables: declaration, initialization, assignment, scope
- Control Structures: if-else, loops (for, while), switch-case
- Functions: definition, parameters, return values, recursion
- Debugging: syntax errors, runtime errors, logic errors, testing
- Program Efficiency: time complexity, space complexity (Big-O notation)
- APIs: libraries, functions, documentation, integration
Unit 4: Computer Systems & Networks
- Computer Components: CPU, memory, storage, input/output devices
- Operating Systems: tasks, file management, user interface
- Internet: IP, DNS, HTTP, protocols, packet-switching
- Network Types: LAN, WAN, VPN, peer-to-peer, client-server
- Cybersecurity: firewalls, antivirus, encryption, phishing, malware
- Data Transmission: bandwidth, latency, throughput
- Cloud Computing: SaaS, IaaS, PaaS, distributed computing
Unit 5: Impact of Computing
- Ethics: privacy, digital divide, intellectual property, hacking
- Legal Issues: copyright, patents, fair use, DMCA
- Social Impacts: social media, AI ethics, job automation, bias
- Global Impact: digital communication, internet access, globalization
- Economic Impact: e-commerce, fintech, gig economy
- Environmental Impact: e-waste, energy consumption, green computing
- Future Trends: AI, quantum computing, blockchain, IoT
Unit 6: Simulation & Modeling
- Simulations: virtual models, predictions, testing hypotheses
- Modeling: abstract representations, simplifications of reality
- Randomness: random number generation, Monte Carlo methods
- Heuristics: problem-solving approaches, approximation algorithms
- Data Visualization: graphs, charts, dashboards, infographics
- System Modeling: input-output models, flowcharts, state diagrams
- Decision Making: cost-benefit analysis, risk assessment, optimization