Tips for starting AP courses early?

I'm considering taking an AP class in my freshman or sophomore year of high school, but I'm not sure which ones would be more manageable. Any advice on how to approach early AP and which courses are more doable for underclassmen?

It's great that you're considering taking AP classes early in your high school career! This can help demonstrate your academic abilities and ambition. Here are some tips on how to approach early AP courses and which ones might be more manageable for underclassmen.

1. Assess your strengths and interests: Choose an AP course in a subject area that you are genuinely interested in and have strengths in, as this will make the coursework more enjoyable and manageable.

2. Consult with your teachers and counselors: They know your academic abilities and can suggest appropriate AP courses based on your current level in a subject, as well as your future educational goals.

3. Research course content and requirements: Look into the content and workload of each AP course you're considering by reviewing the course descriptions on the College Board website. This will give you a better understanding of what to expect in terms of rigor and time commitment.

4. Start with one AP course: If you haven't taken any AP courses before, it's a good idea to start with just one during your freshman or sophomore year to gauge how well you handle the coursework. This will also allow you to build good study habits and adapt to the greater level of rigor in AP courses compared to regular classes.

5. Consider your overall schedule: Ensure you have a balanced workload and can manage extracurricular activities, sports, or other commitments alongside your AP course. It's important not to spread yourself too thin.

Now, as for which courses may be more doable for underclassmen, it varies depending on the school and the student, but some common early AP courses include:

- AP Human Geography: Often considered one of the more manageable AP courses, it provides a broad introduction to the study of human populations, migrations, cultures, and societies.

- AP Environmental Science: An interdisciplinary course that explores topics in environmental science and ecology, suitable for students with an interest in science and real-world applications.

- AP World History: A comprehensive course that covers global historical events, suitable for students with strong reading and writing skills who enjoy history.

- AP Psychology: A challenging yet intriguing course for students interested in the human mind and behavior, though it may require significant memorization of key terms and concepts.

Ultimately, the best early AP course for you will depend on your interests, strengths, and school offerings. It's essential to do your research, talk to teachers and counselors at your school, and consider your schedule before making a decision. Good luck!