Which AP exams are considered the most challenging?

As I'm planning my schedule for senior year, I want to challenge myself but not overwhelm my workload. Anyone know which AP exams are generally regarded as the toughest? I want to make sure I balance my interests with a manageable level of difficulty.

It's great to see you're being strategic about your senior year course load. Generally, the perception of AP exam difficulty can vary depending on your strengths and interests. AP courses with extensive content, such as AP Biology, AP Chemistry, and AP Physics C are often considered tough because of the depth of understanding needed and the laboratory components. Similarly, AP US History and AP European History are known for their detailed content and the focus on critical analysis and essay writing.

If you excel in STEM subjects, you might find AP humanities courses more challenging, or vice versa. AP Language and Composition and AP Literature and Composition demand strong writing and critical reading skills, so if those aren't your strong suits, these could be challenging exams for you. Additionally, AP Calculus BC is often perceived as harder than AP Calculus AB because it covers more material, including concepts of Series, and has a faster pace.

It would be wise to think about your post-high school plans and potential college majors when deciding. If you're aiming for a STEM field, taking and doing well in AP Calculus BC or AP Physics could be particularly valuable. Choose subjects that complement your intended major or career path, but remember to also consider your current course load, extracurricular commitments, and personal well-being when making your final decisions.