SCOTUS Comparison FRQ the most-mastered AP Gov FRQ.
FRQ 3 on the AP Gov exam gives you a non-required case and asks you to compare it to one of the 15 required cases. The rubric is predictable. This guide gives you the template that scores 4/4.
The FRQ 3 structure
You read a non-required SCOTUS case summary. The prompt asks you to compare it to ONE specific required case. The rubric expects:
(a) Identify the holding of the required case (1 point).
(b) Identify the constitutional clause both cases hinge on (1 point).
(c) Explain how the comparison case applies or modifies that clause to a new scenario (1 point).
(d) Connect the comparison to a political institution, behavior, or process (1 point).
The opening move
The move that almost guarantees the 4/4: start your response with “Both cases turn on the [clause].” This forces you to identify the right clause before writing anything else — and the clause is half the rubric.
Examples: “Both cases turn on the Free Exercise Clause.” “Both cases turn on the Equal Protection Clause.” “Both cases turn on the Necessary and Proper Clause.”
The 15 required cases
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers — written by humans, not a chatbot.
How long should the FRQ 3 response be?
About 4–6 sentences total. The rubric rewards precision over length; padding hurts.
What if I don’t remember the exact holding of the required case?
Identifying the right clause still earns 1 point. Always state the clause even if you’re shaky on the holding.