Ranking AP Courses by Difficulty

So, I'm thinking ahead to next year and planning out my course load. I'm definitely leaning towards taking more APs but I've heard some can be a real beast. I'd love to hear from you guys - How would you all rank AP courses by their level of difficulty? I want to challenge myself without burning out.

Firstly, it's really good to see you planning ahead and considering what's manageable for you. Managing coursework can definitely be a balancing act, and it's important to think about both your course load and what really interests you. Different students might rate the same AP class differently based on their skills, background, and strengths. For instance, those who are more STEM-inclined might find AP Calculus or AP Physics easier, while those who excel in humanities might find AP History or AP English courses more straightforward.

However, some commonly considered "hard" AP classes include:

- AP English Literature and Composition: Often considered difficult due to the level of critical thinking and analytical writing skills required.

- AP Calculus AB/BC: These are high-level math classes where a strong foundation in prior math courses is crucial.

- AP Physics C: Mechanics and Electricity & Magnetism: Regarded as tough due to the combination of high-level math and complex physics concepts.

- AP Biology: Detailed memorization and understanding of complex biological systems can make this class more challenging.

On the other hand, some "lighter" AP classes often noted for being more manageable, include:

- AP Psychology: Materials tend to be straightforward and interesting.

- AP Environmental Science: Often less rigorous than other AP sciences, and overlaps significantly with biology, which can make it easier if you've already taken AP Bio.

- AP Human Geography: Frequently seen as less intense compared to other AP history or social science courses.

Remember, a class being challenging doesn't mean you shouldn't take it. If you are interested in a subject, that interest can often help make the workload more manageable. It's also vital to take a mixture of easier and more challenging classes to ensure you're still challenging yourself but also not overloading. Focus on areas that align with your academic goals and interests, as well. That way, even if the course is challenging, you'll likely find it more engaging and rewarding. Good luck with your planning!