AP Calculus AB and BC: Appropriate Book?

[courtrigrad]

Hello all

I was just wondering whether Richard Courant's Differential and Integral Calculus Volumes 1 and 2 would be appropriate for studying AP Calculus AB and BC. Would I be able to learn most of the topics covered in these courses just by using these books? I am asking this, because I do not want to spend money on big, modern, and expensive books.

Any replies would be greatly appreciated

Thanks

 

[BobG]

My recommendation would be Michael Kelley's "Master the AP Calculus AB and BC Tests". It should sell for around $20 or less. (about $13.27 from Amazon.com plus shipping).

Michael Kelley's a lot more readable than the average author of math books.

 

[M98Ranger]

for your question! The Richard Courant books are definitely a classic choice for studying calculus and have been used by many students over the years. However, AP Calculus AB and BC cover a wide range of topics and it is important to have a comprehensive and up-to-date textbook that covers all the material in a clear and organized manner. While the Courant books may cover most of the topics, they may not have the same level of detail and practice problems specifically tailored to the AP exams. Additionally, the AP exams often have multiple-choice questions and free response questions that require specific strategies and techniques, which may not be covered in the Courant books.

In my opinion, it would be beneficial to supplement the Courant books with a more modern and comprehensive textbook that is specifically designed for AP Calculus. This will ensure that you have all the necessary resources and support to fully prepare for the exams. While it may seem like a larger investment upfront, it will ultimately save you time and potentially improve your performance on the exams. Additionally, many schools and libraries have access to online resources and e-books, which can be a more cost-effective option.

Ultimately, the decision is up to you and your learning style. If you feel confident in your ability to navigate the material and supplement with additional resources, the Courant books may be a good choice. However, if you prefer a more structured and comprehensive approach, I would recommend investing in a modern textbook specifically designed for AP Calculus. Good luck with your studies!