List of Books to use for self-study before AP classes

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around recommendations for books to use for self-study in preparation for various Advanced Placement (AP) classes, particularly in mathematics and sciences. Participants seek guidance on suitable texts that would aid in their studies before taking these courses.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a desire for book recommendations for multiple AP classes, indicating a need for guidance on effective study materials.
  • Another participant seeks clarification on what "AP" refers to, leading to a definition of Advanced Placement Classes.
  • A participant notes the broad range of subjects covered by AP classes, suggesting that the question may not have a straightforward answer.
  • Specific AP classes mentioned include AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Computer Science A, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, and various AP Physics courses.
  • One participant mentions difficulty in finding a single good recommendation for science APs, as searches yield lists that do not aid in decision-making.
  • A suggestion is made to check which textbooks are used by the participant's school for the relevant courses, highlighting the subjective nature of determining the "best" textbooks.
  • It is noted that introductory physics textbooks vary widely, with algebra/trig-based books suitable for AP Physics 1 and 2, while calculus-based books are appropriate for AP Physics C.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on specific book recommendations, and multiple views on the best approach to finding suitable study materials remain. The discussion is unresolved regarding which books are most effective for self-study in preparation for AP classes.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects a variety of preferences and experiences regarding textbooks, with no definitive recommendations provided. The effectiveness of study materials may depend on individual learning styles and course requirements.

General Scientist
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I plan on taking a multitude of AP classes next year. I would like some books that I should buy for good study.
 
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I tried really hard to read your mind, but I am weak and you will have to help me. What do you meant by AP?
 
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Baluncore said:
I tried really hard to read your mind, but I am weak and you will have to help me. What do you meant by AP?
AP is Advanced Placement Classes.
 
I doubt your question can be answered because AP covers such a wide range of possibilities.

Math and Computer Sciences.
AP Calculus AB
AP Calculus BC
AP Computer Science A
AP Computer Science Principles
AP Statistics

Sciences.
AP Biology
AP Chemistry
AP Environmental Science
AP Physics 1
AP Physics 2
AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism
AP Physics C: Mechanics

There is no simple answer. Maybe search the web, or visit a library.
 
Then what about the sciences. I plan of taking AP Calc BC, and all the Science APs except Earth and Environmental. I haven't found a good recommendation because my searches lead to a list of books for each AP which doesn't really help decision making.
 
Can you find out which books your school uses for those courses?

At the introductory level in most subjects, there are many textbooks available, and it's largely a matter of instructors' or students' taste which ones are "best."

In this forum, people often discuss introductory college/university physics textbooks, so you might try searching for those threads. Algebra/trig based intro physics books are suitable for AP Physics 1 and 2; calculus-based ones are suitable for AP Physics C.
 

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