<p>I seem to be getting this message in my head that I can still do well on tests without reading. Or by just reading condensed notes, or review books...</p>
<p>Is that even possible, or am I insane? Grades are directly correlative to the amount of study time, right?</p>
<p>Would you read the textbook for classes like AP Chem and AP Euro?</p>
<p>If you just want to do well on tests, then review guides and notes will be just fine. But if you care about more than just the grade, and actually want to understand the subject, then read the textbook.</p>
<p>^
Wait… Really? The textbook offers nothing more than notes?</p>
<p>The textbook gives you the details that help solidify your understanding of the concepts. I think that’s part of what BigKev is referring to.</p>
<p>Grades do not directly correlate with study time; talent and method of studying (most important!) are factors as well. See [Study</a> Hacks](<a href=“http://calnewport.com/blog/]Study”>Study Hacks - Decoding Patterns of Success - Cal Newport) for more details and study methods.</p>
<p>For AP Chem, it’s OK not to read the book if you can get the concepts down from your teacher’s lectures, notes, review books, etc., since a lot of chem is conceptual rather than information-heavy. AP Euro is different since there’s just only so much information a teacher can cover in limited class time; if the tests are really detailed, then it is probably necessary to read the textbook. For most things, though, a review book will probably suffice.</p>
<p>(From experience with APUSH, make sure that review books cover the same material as the class; some tidbits about feminism or some random labor strike or whatnot might not be in the review book.)</p>
<p>^ You beat me to recommending Study Hacks.</p>
<p>Thanks, I’ll check that out.</p>