Self-Studying AP World History - Textbook?

Test Preparation AP History & Social Sciences
1

I’ve been lurking around this site and getting lots of useful information without posting, but I felt the need to post for this one. So my question is, a. do I need a textbook for self-studying AP World, and b. if yes, what is the best textbook? Thanks!</p>

2

I have heard that the Barrons review book is ideal for self-studying. However, a textbook wouldn’t hurt as well.</p>

3

Thanks for the tip, as I’ve looked around that does seem to the general consensus for the best prep book & I’ll be getting it. For a textbook, is there one you would suggest?</p>

4

ahh I’m doing the same thing…we don’t have AP world history at my school, but there’s another class that’s similar. So I’m taking that and self-studying for the AP exam. I guess I’m buying the Barron’s book.</p>

5

Oh I’m so glad there’s someone else doing this! I hope your other world history class is useful. It probably will be, since it’s not like the history is going to change.</p>

I think I might also get PR in addition to Barron’s because as I’ve looked around (stalked), people seem to say that is pretty good too.</p>

So maybe I won’t need a textbook after all? No one has thoroughly addressed the issue so I’m not sure.</p>

6

I do not think you will need a textbook. I have looked around this forum and according to many, the Barrons will suffice if you read it in depth and retain the information. I’m taking AP World History this coming school year and I have begun studying a bit from the Barrons.</p>

7

Awesome, thank you! Textbooks are super expensive so that’s good news.</p>

8

I am also self-studying for AP World! I really was going to purchase a textbook, but it looks like Barrons will suffice.</p>

9

You don’t need a textbook to do well (I self-studied for two weeks and got a 5) but Penguin’s History of the World is a great way to have background material for your FRQs.</p>

10

You crammed the whole world’s history into your brain in two weeks? Impressive. I self-studied and crammed two APs the past year, but cramming for me was really stressful, as I also balanced a mound of extracurriculars. Planning on starting World History in fall and doing it little by little instead.</p>