AP Subjects

AP Human Geography

AP Human Geography is often the first AP many students take, usually in 9th grade. It’s a great introduction to the pace and structure of AP-level coursework without being overwhelming. 

This class isn’t about memorizing capital cities or labeling maps. It’s about understanding how humans interact with the world — how we settle, migrate, build cities, divide land, spread ideas, and shape culture. You’ll explore deep questions like:
🌍 Why do borders cause conflict?
🏙️ Why are cities designed the way they are?
👣 How does where we live affect how we live?

Is it worth taking? If you're curious about global patterns, current events, or how geography influences everything from politics to pop culture — absolutely.
Is it hard? Easier than some APs, yes. But you’ll need to keep up with vocab, understand key models and theories, and practice applying concepts to real-world examples.  After you take much more APs in your junior and senior years, looking back, this class will feel extremely easy.
Can you self-study it? Many do — especially with good resources, visual study tools, and lots of practice with FRQs.

AP Precalculus

AP Precalculus is one of the newer additions to the AP lineup — designed for students who want a strong foundation before diving into AP Calculus or college-level math. Most students take it in 10th or 11th grade, especially if they’re aiming for a STEM path but aren’t quite ready (or interested) in jumping straight into AP Calc.

This course covers linear, exponential, logarithmic, rational, and trigonometric functions, plus modeling and real-world applications. 

Is it worth taking?
No, if you trust your math skills, go take AP Calc AB or BC. Yes, if you want to prep for STEM college majors, or ease into higher-level math with structure and support. It’s also helpful for anyone who wants a strong boost before AP Calc AB or BC.
Is it hard?
Nah, everything makes sense. I mean, to be real, the trig unit can be a little overwhelming at the beginning and all that polar function stuff...

Can you self-study it?
Yes, for sure, as long as you have a strong Algebra 2 background and reliable resources.

AP World History

AP World History: Modern is often one of the first history APs students take — usually in 10th grade. It's a deep dive into global history from 1200 CE to the present, covering revolutions, empires, trade routes, ideologies, wars, and independence movements across every region of the world.

But this isn’t about memorizing random dates or names (though you’ll definitely learn a few). It’s about making connections: why revolutions happen, how ideas spread, how empires rise and fall, and how power shifts over time. You are learning how to think like a historian: analyzing documents, spotting patterns, and making arguments with evidence.

Is it worth taking?
Yes, especially if you’re interested in global history, politics, or any social science. It builds strong writing, analysis, and critical thinking skills that transfer to literally every other class.
Is it hard?
It can be. The DBQ, LEQ, and SAQ writing styles take time to master. The content is broad — you’re covering centuries of history across multiple continents. But with consistent effort and good notes, it’s very manageable.
Can you self-study it?
Do not recommend. But if you are really determined to self-study, one tip is not to skip writing practice.

AP Computer Science Principles

AP Computer Science Principles is often taken in 9th or 10th grade. If you’ve never coded before or you're just curious about how technology works behind the scenes, this is a great place to start.

AP CSP isn’t about coding. (a little bit on the Create Task)
Sure, you’ll learn programming basics — usually in languages like Python, JavaScript, or block-based code — but the course is really about understanding the big ideas behind computing: how the internet works, how data is collected, how algorithms are designed, and how technology affects society.

You’ll also complete a Create Performance Task (PT) — a project where you build your own program and explain your process. This makes up 30% of your score, and it's done during the school year, not on exam day. 

Is it worth taking?
If you are already a CS master, definitely no. Yes — especially if you're even slightly curious about tech, but don’t know where to start. CSP opens the door to computer science in a low-stress, exploratory way. It’s also a good prep course for AP Computer Science A if you plan to take that next.
Is it hard?
Not really — it’s one of the most approachable APs. It’s not math-heavy, and there’s less memorization than in most other APs. BUT the curve for this AP Exam is not as good as other AP classes. You can only miss about 10 questions out of 70 questions on the MCQ section, and get full points on Create Task & FRQ to score a 5.
Can you self-study it?
Technically yes, but because of the required performance task submission and project-based learning, it’s better taken through a school course or structured program.

AP Macroeconomics

AP Macroeconomics is usually taken in 11th or 12th grade, earlier if you wnat to major in economics or business. If you’ve ever wondered how inflation, unemployment, recessions, or interest rates affect the real world, this class gives you the tools to understand it all. It’s the AP that makes the news make sense.

This isn’t the kind of math-heavy econ you might imagine. Yes, there are graphs, formulas, and numbers — but the focus is on big-picture thinking: how entire economies work, what governments and central banks do to keep things stable, and what it means when things go wrong (looking at you, Great Recession).

You’ll learn about GDP, inflation, fiscal policy, monetary policy, aggregate supply and demand, and international trade. And the best part? You’ll start seeing this stuff everywhere — in headlines, elections, and even your own paycheck. I LOVE THIS CLASS SO MUCH...

Is it worth taking?
Absolutely — it’s one of the most practical APs out there. Understanding how the economy works is a lifelong skill. It helps you make smart decisions with your money.
Is it hard?
No. The concepts can feel abstract at first, but once you get used to the graphs, they actually become satisfying.  I don't know who needs to hear this, easiest AP class for me, aura farming all school year.
Can you self-study it?
Yes — it’s one of the most self-studiable APs. There are tons of great videos, cheat sheets, and review resources online. If you’re disciplined, you can definitely earn a 5 on your own.