Difficulty level of AP CSP?

Hey guys! I'm considering taking AP CSP next year, but I'm not sure how hard it is. Has anyone here taken the course, and how did you find it compared to other AP courses?

Hello! Many students who have taken AP Computer Science Principles (CSP) describe it as one of the more accessible and beginner-friendly AP courses, especially if you're new to computer science. While each student's experience varies depending on their background and the teacher, the general consensus is that AP CSP is not as difficult as some of the more rigorous AP courses like AP Calculus or AP Chemistry.

The course is designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of computer science and computational thinking. Topics often include programming languages (like Python or JavaScript), internet technologies, data analysis, and the broader impacts of computing. One factor that many students find less demanding in AP CSP is the assessment format. There is a multiple-choice exam at the end of the course, but a significant portion of your AP score comes from two performance tasks, one involving programming and the other involving research, which you complete throughout the course. This gives you more time to work on and perfect your projects, rather than focusing solely on the exam.

To succeed in AP CSP, you need to be comfortable with problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration. Many students find the course to be a great introduction to the world of computer science and a good stepping stone for AP Computer Science A, which delves deeper into programming concepts based on Java.

In conclusion, compared to other AP courses, AP CSP is generally considered less demanding, which makes it an excellent option if you're interested in exploring computer science or looking to balance a challenging course load with something more approachable. Good luck!