<p>So I've basically procrastinated on my independent-study APs, and I'm just now starting to go over my review books (Cliffs for Bio, PR for Chem). I'm wondering, do you all think it's COMPLETELY impossible, at this point, to do well (4/5) on both tests? I decided last minute to give up one of my other tests (Physics C), so that kind of leaves me with a little more time. This isn't my first time self-studying, though it's my first time for any of the AP sciences. (I'm also pretty strong at math, if that makes any difference for AP Chem.) My school's registration ends this Friday, so I want to be able to make a decision by then.</p>
<p>EDIT: Oh, I forgot to mention. I've also taken the honors version of both subjects before (9th and 10th grade), but I don't really remember much from those classes. Thanks!</p>
<p>What is your background in the subjects? Although, based on what I know, I have to tend toward the prediction that self-studying both of those from scratch at this point would be very difficult.</p>
<p>Eh… It’s hard to say. Biology has a lot of memorization while Chemistry has a ton of concepts you have to understand and know how to apply. If anything, I’d say Bio might be an easier one to self-study. Also you won’t be exposed to Chem Labs either, which tend to be important if you plan on using the college credit. I personally would say just go with Bio and don’t try to overload yourself.</p>
<p>@silverturtle: Ah, I’m sorry I left that out…just edited my first post. But yeah, basically, I’ve already taken the honors version of both classes, but they were taken 2-3 years ago. So I do have SOME background on both subjects, so that should be of some help.</p>
<p>There are some processes in AP Bio that would be a little hard to learn out of a book… there is a LOT of information/reading that goes with the class. In my opinion, it would be very difficult, but maybe not IMPOSSIBLE, to self study both chem and bio starting right now. If you did start now, it would probably involve a lot of intensive studying… Cliffs is good for Bio though, good choice. GOOD LUCK!</p>
<p>Thanks for the advice, guys! So the general consensus here is it’s doable, but very, very difficult, I suppose. I guess I’ll cram all of this week and see how it goes, then use that as a measure of how productive I can be in the next few weeks.</p>
<p>The problem I see though is that these classes are not supposed to be crammed into about a month and a half. They are hard classes and hard AP tests that are meant to cover a years material. If you decide to do them and take credit for it if you get a decent enough score on the AP test I think you would definitely be robbing yourself of an interesting and rewarding experience with the subjects… it’s up to you though.</p>
<p>^Yeah, that’s a really good point. I think rushing through a high-school physical science class and using it in place of a college course probably isn’t the best idea. I’d probably end up forgetting everything soon after May.</p>
<p>Again, thanks for the input, everyone. I’ve decided to just stick to what I’m more comfortable with (bio) and not take chem. If I end up investing way too much time in AP Chem and then not do well (or even ditch the exam), I would end up taking too much time away from my other APs.</p>
GOOD LUCK!</p>