Which AP Chem book(s) to use?

Test Preparation AP Test Preparation
1

<p>I know the general consensus on CC is that PR's AP Chemistry book is the best for preparing for the exam. But I recently read some mixed reviews on Amazon.com about it, with at least two different users claiming that the section on equilibrium was not covered adequately. They also mentioned that the practice tests at the back of the book were easier than the actual AP. Since I'm well aware that there is no single perfect test prep book, I'm wondering if I should use PR along with another book, or refrain from using PR entirely. </p>

<p>A bit of background here: I completed an Honors Chemistry course sophomore year, and while my grades in that class weren't stellar (my teacher took off a TON of points for lab reports he didn't even explain, as well as significant figures that weren't specified), I have enough knowledge to score 700+ on the SAT II subject test. </p>

<p>Thoughts or comments are much appreciated!</p>

<p>Note: I'm asking this because I have plans to self-study AP Chemistry. I know people are going to disagree on account of the lack of labs, but my Honors Chemistry class actually did a lot of labs that reinforced material from the lessons learned. (If I'm not mistaken, my lab book's still lying around here somewhere haha) </p>

<p>In truth, my teacher wasn't that bad in terms of familiarizing us with the concepts, but his tests were ridiculous. The level of difficulty didn't match up with that of the homework or what was discussed in class.</p>

2

<p>I got Barron’s because I am self-studying for personal challenge and it is reputed to be the hardest.</p>

<p>I strongly recommend Linus Pauling’s textbook General Chemistry. It doesn’t really match past exams (so get a review book too), but the content is EXCELLENT.</p>

3

<p>I got the PR. My friend got a 4 last year with it. He took the course.</p>

4

<p>Use a textbook if you want to self-study. I like General Chemistry by Whitten. You can get an old edition for under $10 at a used book store or on Ebay or Amazon. I like PR a lot. Barron is a little overloaded.</p>

5

<p>Sometimes study guides are insufficient in providing in-depth information. That is why you should use textbooks to study. Sure, PR was great, but it only serves to review.</p>

6

<p>Zumdahl + PR</p>