AP Physics 1 Self Study

Test Preparation
1

Hey guys,

I am currently a sophomore in high school. I’m looking to self-study the AP physics 1 test to take this May and was wondering on any suggestions on what resources/study timing I should be using. My counselor told me that if I wanted to take the Physics C class next year and push AP Chem to senior year, I would need to show some solid understanding of physics. (I have literally never studied textbook physics, just watched youtube vids/science articles on it).

I’m overall pretty good at math, on track to take AP Calc as a junior. The only AP I’m taking is AP Bio, and I find it pretty easy. I have all A’s in my classes so I thought I could squeeze in the time to start studying physics, because I’ve always been interested in it and would like to major in it.

It is currently December, so I can spend all of winter break + spring break studying, and have ample time to review.

I really would like to know especially from those of who who have taken the exam or a similar one, do you really need a teacher? Do I need a tutor? How much practice do I need per week? Should I use a prep book or a textbook or both? How much do I need to conceptually understand physics? Will this help me in college admissions? (Answering any of these questions or anything related would be very appreciated)

Thanks!

2

I don’t see how you can squash an entire AP Physics course into such a short time frame, especially with no background in it. Also, many physics professors argue that you need a solid grounding in Calculus to do well in Physics. Jst take Physics senior year (AP or regular) after you’ve finished Calculus.

3

If you study physics on your own then how will you do the labs? Reading the book and answering the questions behind the chapter in book is sufficient enough to master the subject. You need guides to verify your answers.

4

Good luck with that.

5

OP wants to do this to get into physics C. Instead of just talking to the GC, why not speak with the physics teachers? See if they think you can succeed, what’s critical. Maybe a teacher would chevk your progress or mentor.

And no, self study isn’t an admissions tip. You miss the class interaction, labs, and pacing.

6

@SMMom1 many students taking AP Physics 1 do not have calculus.