Currently I do not intend to major in a math related field, although I am really interested in taking either AP ab or bc calc. I’ve heard BC is pretty rough/demanding and any advice on which one is more beneficial to take would be great.
AB covers a little more than a semester of college single variable calculus. BC covers a year or almost a year of college single variable calculus (including the AB content).
So BC covers material at a faster pace than AB.
How did you do in your math classes up to now? Specifically how have you done in algebra, trigonometry, and pre-calculus?
Generally, I would say take Calc AB…
But consider: How are the teachers that teach each class?
Will you need math courses in college for your major? I would think you would be more likely to get a good AP score taking Calc AB.
@DadTwoGirls So far I’ve taken algebra 1 and 2 and geometry (with trig incorporated) all of which were honors. I’ve began teaching myself pre-calc in hopes to take AP calc. I’ve maintained an A in all of the math courses I’ve taken so far.
@booper My goal is to potentially major in either political science, global affairs, criminology, or computer science. My end goal is to work in either law or the FBI (go to law school beforehand). I’d assume calc would be beneficial if I go into computer science but then again since I’m still undecided AB would probably be better and like you said easier to get a higher score.
Will you be taking Precalculus next year or do you intend to skip the class and go straight into Calculus?
You may want to try this quiz to see how ready you are for calculus and to show you what you may need to review:
http://www.math.buffalo.edu/rur/rurci3.cgi
I think AB is fine. Selective colleges would like STEM applicants in particular to reach some level of calculus, but they will be more than happy to teach you calculus 3 on their own campus.