<p>I'm currently a junior who is also taking AP Euro and Bio. I want to go into a math/computer career and try to self study AP computer science. I finally got a laptop to start programming, but is it too late for me to learn java in time for the exam? I've been watching video tutorials and will also take online courses along with using prep books. I've learned the very basics of java so it would be learning as a beginner. The problem is that the AP test payments are due in December so I will have to make up my mind soon. It's a lot of money for me to take these tests so it would be helpful to know if I have the chance to score well. I don't get much guidance on this is in school, so what do you guys think?</p>
<p>If you feel comfortable with Java then take it, as it is definitely worth the effort. I skipped to Ap programming and get straight A’s all the time. The AP exam isn’t very difficult and practice tests are really all you need.</p>
<p>It is not too hard to start. However, I know many people who have received very low ap comp sci scores from self studying. Comp sci is one of those subjects that either you get it or you dont. If you aren’t able to understand java really well then the ap will be a huge struggle for you. Many of my friends program for fun and got 5’s without really studying. Other friends don’t really understand programming but took a class at school and got 4’s. So unless you think that you will be able to teach yourself java, then I would spend that money and effort on another AP. </p>
<p>I was determined to take it, but I was a worried if it was enough time because my school wants the money for the tests really early. I have a lot of online sources to learn, but what prep books and supplement books would go along with self studying for the test?</p>