I’ve been forced to drop AP Physics C due to scheduling conflicts, so I’ve decided to self study for this/these tests. I have a very solid calculus background and have some basic physics knowledge, but not as much as I would like. Anyways, what would be the best textbook to self study? I’ve found these, so I was wondering which is the best?
Fundamentals of Physics by Halliday, Resnick, and Walker
Physics for Scientists and Engineers by Serway and Jewett
Physics for Scientists and Engineers by Giancoli
Physics for Scientists and Engineers by Knight
An Introduction to Mechanics by Kleppner and Kolenkow
University Physics by Young and Freedman
And for a review book, Barron’s is said to overprep, so would PR or AP Advantage be any good?
Kleppner and Kolenkow is overkill for AP Physics C. It’s objectively the best textbook to learn mechanics from, but it is intended to be at the honors level for universities like MIT, Penn, and Berkeley. (Yes, I know a textbook can’t be objectively the best.) It requires a working knowledge of linear algebra, vector calculus, and differential equations. Even if the math isn’t an issue for you, the level of mechanics it teaches is simply more advanced than what the AP exam asks for. It’s the right book from which to learn the subject, but probably the wrong book to prepare for the physics C exam.
I would be extremely interested to hear from anyone who has used Kleppner and Kolenkow in an AP Physics C course, especially if they can contradict me. Again, the textbook is phenomenal.
I can’t comment on any of the other textbooks. I will say that when it comes close to the exam time, you should use Mooney’s AP Advantage prep book to study, bar none.
Ok, thanks. That one is off the list. Can anyone chime in on what is the best of the other textbooks to study then?
@Brickmaster7398 I can’t really say anything about the textbooks. Although I have a copy of Halliday, Resnick, and Walker at home, I never used it yet.
In terms of review books, I would definitely get Princeton Review. Best one hands down.
I’m self studying over the summer, but it’s only because I wanted to get started on the material ahead of time. I always rely on PR and it is fantastic in terms of questions and content.
If you want me to post several resources on this thread, or if you have any questions, please let me know.
Good luck!
Sure, please post the resources you have. I’ve found a few, but more sources couldn’t hurt. Thanks!
@lightblaze259 Thanks again for the help!
Would you say that it is somewhat easy to get a grasp on the material with a review book and these resources?
@Brickmaster7398 Overall, for me, it’s okay, considering that I don’t have previous physics knowledge. However, because of my math background (I took Calc BC last year) and my interest in physics, it makes a lot of sense. At times, it can get complicated, but overall, it’s not that bad. PR does an excellent job explaining the concepts.
So based on what you mentioned in your original post, I would say yes, you will likely find it easy to get an understanding of the material with PR and my resources, though it also depends on your interest and motivation. Please don’t be afraid to use any of those resources should you ever find a topic difficult!
Again, no problem! Glad to help! Feel free to let me know if you have any more questions!