Mankiw's Principles of Economics for self-study

Test Preparation AP History & Social Sciences
1

I am currently a junior considering self-studying both AP Micro and Macroeconomics next year. I have read through multiple threads about self-studying the courses, and it seems doable, especially because it’s a subject I’m interested in. I observed that a healthy portion of people use Mankiw’s Principles of Economics, and have been successful, and I know there are several editions out there. I checked Amazon, and I the second edition was selling used for $5-10, which raises two questions:</p>

<ol>
<li>Would it make a huge difference in my level of preparation if I buy an older version of this textbook (not necessarily the second edition)?</p></li>
<li>Are these offers “too good to be true,” or can I trust a seller with a bookstore name, 97% satisfaction in the past month, and 40,000 ratings?</p></li>
</ol>

Also, I already have the CliffsAP prep book for econ, but I’m planning on getting another one. I am probably going to go with either Barrons or PR. I heard the Barrons book is only good for one of the two subjects; what are your thoughts on these two choices? How good is the Cliffs book?</p>

2

<ol>
<li>I doubt it would make any difference.</li>
<li>You can generally trust them, assuming you’re buying through Amazon and not an obviously suspicious site.</li>
</ol>

5 Steps to a 5 is working pretty well for me right now (I’m self-studying), but I’ve also heard good things about PR on here.</p>

3

Thanks! about how many hours per week would I need to put into self-studying it to be successful?</p>

4

My friend used the Mankiw textbook last year, and successfully attained a five on both exams, so from the sounds of it, it should sufficiently prepare you and provide you with all the material covered on both exams. That being said, there is the possibility that Mankiw goes in greater depth with his explanations, so his textbook might very well contain superfluous information not otherwise necessary for the exam.</p>

5

Alright, I’ll keep all that in mind. Thanks for the advice!</p>