<p>Has anyone ever self-studied AP Chem with no background and gotten a 4/5? If so, how did you do it? What materials/sources did you use to understand all of the information? What are some basic things you should know solid and that are used over and over again in the study of Chemistry? For example, in order to do will in Physics, you need good Geometry and Algebra skills. </p>
<p>Also, does anyone know if Zumdahl's Seventh Ed. is a good book to self-study from? Are there any other good books that teach you the information (not prep)? Does anyone know of any sites/videos that can aid in comprehending the material? Thanks a lot in advance!</p>
<p>I have taken AP Chem concurrently with a Chemistry Honors course. However, I did not really receive background information in the Chemistry Honors course due to administration bungling.</p>
<p>In a sense, I literally self-studied for AP Chem on my own. I did use Zumdahl to study for it. However, I recently received Chemistry: The Central Science by Brown. I would recommend that book over Zumdahl as it is a lot more concise and clear.</p>
<p>Without a doubt, you need a solid background in algebra. A majority of the complicated problems requires an understanding. As for the concepts and theories, that is up to you to understand.</p>
<p>Ok thanks. Anyone else self-study Chem?</p>
<p>I didn't self-study for it, but one of my friends did. He had only taken one year of regular chemistry, which covered only about 30% (or less) of the AP Chem material. He mostly used PR AP Chemistry prep book to self-study. I believe he got 4 on the exam.</p>
<p>As far as basic skills go, I'd say algebra and some basic precalc would be crucial in dealing with some of the equations and formulas in chem.</p>
<p>Zumdahl's book seems to be popular for AP Chem courses (I used it, too), and it is a very good book. I found the explanations very detailed and useful in understanding the material.</p>