<p>So what exactly do you guys learn in stats?
I am currently a junior taking calc bc and I do not want to take a math class next year lol.
Would anyone recommend self-studying stats and getting it over with this year? If so, 3 months = enough? Comments of all kinds (from "you are a n00b" to "the test is impossible") are appreciated :]</p>
<p>If you don’t want to take a math class, but want to LOOK like you’re taking 4 years of math, an AP stats course is the right fit for you.</p>
<p>Honestly, except for a little VERY basic algebra, the only math you do in AP stats is plugging numbers into formulas. The mathematics behind statistical theory is complicated, somewhat tedious, and not tested on the AP exam.</p>
<p>@zala: if you are interested at top-tier colleges, you should definitely take math classes at a local college sr. year.</p>
<p>thxx people
I guess i will leave stats for next year then (along with maybe multi var at local college)</p>
<p>@neil30z - I beg to differ. It depends on if you want to major in something math-related, I think, but I do know math majors at Yale, Duke, Columbia, etc. who only took AP math courses. My sister is at UPenn…and let’s just put it simply: 2 on AP Calc AB exam. Granted, she’s a history and IR double-major (minor in econ), but you get my point. =P</p>
<p>As for AP Stats…you’ll find that the percentage who make 5’s is a little low compared to the AP Calculus exams, but that’s because it isn’t really a traditional math class. It’s a lot more reading comprehension and logic-based than the “pure math” classes, such as calculus, pre-cal, etc.; it therefore requires very little math, just…well, I’d almost say arithmetic. =P</p>
<p>Personally, I think it’s pretty easy, and you should definitely be able to self-study it without too much trouble. At the same time, though, many people in my class seem to be struggling (eh…I think there have been instances where 2/3 of the class fails the test)…so, your call. =)</p>
<p>Well what I meant was, that top-tier colleges definitely want to see a math course sr. year. AP Stats isn’t a “hardcore” math course, but it’s still shows your working at something over sr. year. Regarding zala, he’s already finished with AP Calc BC as a Jr. That’s great work, and should be supplemented by a college course.
Taking AP Stats sr. year is far better than self-studying AP Stats jr. year because: </p>
<p>1) You have no math class
2) Finishing the math curriculum early, is going to give more of a reason to top-tier colleges to ask: “what math classes did you take sr. year?” </p>
<p>certainly, many people who go for top-tier colleges take AP Calc, but seeing that zala did that already, college classes or AP Stats is advisable for sr. year.</p>