How difficult is the government and economics class in high school?

Hi everyone! I'm thinking about my course options for next year, and I'm a little on the edge about taking government and economics. For those who've taken it, how hard is it compared to other social studies classes? Will it be a lot of work on top of my other APs?

It's great to see that you're proactively thinking about your course load for next year! The difficulty of any class, including government and economics, can vary depending on a few factors such as your school, the teacher, and your personal strengths. Typically, high school government and economics courses are designed to give you a foundational understanding of how the government operates and basic economic principles. This can be quite engaging and relevant to current events, which some students find very appealing.

Compared to other social studies classes, students tend to find government and economics to be fairly balanced in terms of difficulty—it's not usually regarded as the most challenging AP course, but it does require a consistent effort. You'll likely be encountering a mix of theoretical concepts and practical applications, with a focus on understanding the systems that shape political and economic policies. As for the workload, it will include reading assignments, essays, and tests, much like your other courses, but many students manage it well alongside other APs.

It's also important to consider your interest in the subject matter. If you are genuinely curious about government systems, political science, or economics, you may find the course more engaging and less burdensome, even enjoyable. On the other hand, if these topics feel dry to you, it might require more effort to stay motivated.

Lastly, given that you're taking other AP courses, you're already accustomed to a higher level of academic demand. What's most crucial is time management and balancing your workload across all subjects. If you're worried about overcommitting, it may be helpful to talk to students who've taken the class before, as well as the teacher, to get a sense of what's expected.

This way, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your academic goals and personal interests. Remember, part of high school is learning to gauge your limits and to challenge yourself appropriately—it's not just about taking all the hardest classes, but also about pursuing subjects that will enrich your educational experience and prepare you for your future endeavors.