<p>So among the three APs I'm taking this year is Computer Science A, which I'm, in effect, self-studying for, given the nature of how our Java class accidentally became an optional AP class (we still get weighted grades :)). I'd say I know/am familiar with more than half of the concepts on the AP exam (such as if/else, looping, arrays, implementation...).</p>
<p>Unfortunately, I have the Princeton Review book that covers the Marine Biology Case Study, rather than the new Gridworld Cast Study. And given the nature of our class, we didn't really delve into Gridworld yet. Heck. I've downloaded it, and I pretty much don't know how to start (the JAR file won't work...). </p>
<p>Think it's still possible for me to assimilate the Case Study? If so, how do you start?</p>
<p>well the case study booklet and solutions manual are on apcentral. I would suggest going through the chapters, answering all of the questions. all of the code is given to you and most of the exercises require modifying the given classes and methods so coming up the solution in your head is just as beneficial as actually programming it.</p>
<p>Yeah, you definitely want to know that, we're starting it this week. Try using the Barron's book (08) version, it has a number of practice questions and good information about the case study.</p>
<p>Yep. I second their opinions. And I just did some practice problems on gridworld. all you do is just call the default methods in your programs, so that shouldn't be a problem.</p>
<p>Thanks for your suggetions. Meanwhile, I finally found a way to painlessly compile GridWorld into Eclipse. Just some fancy clicking. :P I'll be going through the student manual, of course.</p>
<p>Come to think of it, it's kind of a shame that I bought that Princeton Review book near the end of 2007. Heck, if I waited for the 2008 books to arrive... I guess that's two slightly outdated PR books for AP exams I'm taking this year. :P</p>