The Best Online Resources for AP and IB Biology — What Actually Helps

With so many websites, videos, and apps claiming to “make biology easy,” it’s hard to know what’s actually worth a student’s time — especially when they’re in a rigorous course like AP or IB Biology.

The truth is, most students don’t need more content — they need better tools to help them understand and remember what they’re already learning. The right resources can make a big difference, especially when used strategically.

Here are some of the most effective and reliable biology resources out there — all useful for both AP and IB students.

AP and IB

1. Anki Flashcards

Best for: Long-term retention and understanding key concepts

Anki is a free, powerful flashcard app that uses spaced repetition — meaning it adapts based on how well you know each card. If you consistently get a concept right, it won’t quiz you on it as often. If you struggle, it’ll come up more frequently.

Why it’s especially good for biology:

• You can add images to your cards — perfect for diagrams, processes, and visual explanations.

• It’s not just for definitions. Students should use it to break down concepts and processes, even creating simple flowcharts or comparisons on the cards.

• It works on phones, tablets, and web browsers — ideal for short study sessions while waiting for the bus or standing in line.

  
  

2. Amoeba Sisters

Best for: Building foundational understanding

These light-hearted YouTube videos are excellent for reviewing general biology concepts in a clear, visual, and engaging way. While they’re not specific to IB or AP, they’re great for:

• Getting a broad overview before diving into more specific textbook or exam prep material

• Revisiting a topic that isn’t clicking after class

Use these early in the study process — then shift to more exam-aligned resources later.

3. IITian Academy

Best for: Practice questions for AP and IB

This site offers a growing bank of exam-style questions for both AP and IB Biology. It’s a great place to go after studying a topic, to check whether you truly understand it.

Be aware:

• The quality and style of questions can vary

• It’s best used as a supplement, not a main study source

Still, it’s a helpful way to get more practice outside of official materials.

AP Only

4. Bozeman Science (YouTube)

Best for: AP Biology concept review

Paul Andersen is a well-known AP Bio teacher who explains key topics with clarity and calm. His YouTube channel is directly aligned to the AP curriculum and is especially helpful for:

• Reviewing a specific unit before a quiz or test

• Rewatching an explanation that didn’t stick the first time in class

It’s focused, AP-specific, and consistently solid.

5. Learn-Biology.com

Best for: Online textbook alternative (AP)

This site offers a fully digital AP Biology curriculum, structured clearly with text, images, and activities. While full access to quizzes requires a paid license, the content itself is free, making it a good supplementary reference.

Use it when the assigned textbook feels unclear or when a fresh explanation is needed.

IB Only

6. BioNinja

Best for: IB-specific concept review

BioNinja is one of the most widely recommended resources for IB Biology. It’s:

• Clear, concise, and aligned exactly to the IB syllabus

• Full of diagrams, animations, and helpful summaries

• Great for reviewing before an exam or filling in understanding after class

Highly recommended for IB students at any level.

7. Oxford IB Biology Study Guide

Best for: Quick, targeted IB review

This compact guide breaks down each topic into the essential concepts — using IB-specific terminology and phrasing that matches what students will see on tests. It’s perfect for:

• Test prep

• Reviewing weak areas

• Learning how to answer in the style the IB expects

  
  

8. Revision Village – IB Biology

Best for: Key concept videos and exam prep (IB)

Revision Village offers high-quality IB Biology review content, including:

• Concept videos (some of which are made by experienced IB educators)

• Topic breakdowns and practice resources

• Helpful for clarifying how to approach IB-style questions

Some of the content is free; full access requires a subscription. I made a lot of these videos myself as a contractor for Revision Village!

Final Thoughts

What makes these resources effective isn’t just the content — it’s how they help students think. The best ones push students beyond memorization and help them understand the why and how of biological systems.

Used together, they create a well-rounded toolkit for tackling AP or IB Biology with more confidence and less overwhelm.