Should I Take AP Calculus AB or BC After Completing Pre-Calculus?

Once you've completed your regular pre-calculus in high school, the decision between taking AP Calculus AB or BC is a critical one. While it's important to choose a challenge that aligns with your interests and future goals, let’s explore the nuances of each course and provide some guidance to help you make a well-informed decision.

Choosing AP Calculus AB or BC

If you are not a math genius, it is highly recommended to start with AP Calculus AB. Taking AP Calculus BC is similar to skipping several levels in a language course, jumping from Spanish 1 to Spanish 4 in a year. While it might seem like a natural progression, it can be highly demanding and may not be suitable for everyone.

Considering Your Career Goals

The decision on whether to take AP Calculus AB or BC largely depends on your career aspirations. For students planning to pursue STEM-related fields such as math, science, engineering, or computer science, AP Calculus BC can be a great choice. This course is known to provide a more advanced and accelerated learning experience and can prepare you for more rigorous studies in college.

However, if you are planning to major in business, you should consider AP Calculus AB. Business programs often require a course called Business Math with Calculus, which is designed to fit the practical needs of business students. Additionally, if your math teacher and counselor recommend taking Calculus BC, you may choose to do so, but you should be aware that the course is quite accelerated and may not fully cover all the foundational concepts like Calculus AB does.

Assessing Your Math Skills and Peers

Ultimately, it comes down to how you feel about your own math skills and how they compare to your peers. If you are among the top math students with strong performance in previous courses, thriving in math class, and maintaining a consistent workload, AP Calculus BC might be the right challenge for you. On the other hand, if you are more concerned about understanding the material and feel that you may struggle in a fast-paced environment, AP Calculus AB might be a more suitable option. Your pre-calculus teacher can provide a realistic assessment and guide you accordingly.

Realistic Assesment of BC

Several students have shared their experiences, and many emphasize that despite being described as challenging, AP Calculus BC can be manageable with the right attitude and support. The pace of the course is usually similar to an honors math class, and it can be a rewarding experience if you are genuinely interested in the subject. It is important not to be influenced by the negative perceptions that might prevail; instead, focus on your own strengths and interests.

Self-Assessment Questions

**Are you a top-notch math student with mostly A’s in your previous math courses?** **Have you ever struggled to get by in a math class?** **Are your algebra skills sharp?** **Are you taking calculus in high school because you are generally interested in the subject as opposed to all your friends are taking the class?** **Do you consistently and thoroughly complete all of your math homework?** **Are you planning on majoring in a STEM-related major in college such as physics, math, engineering, astronomy, etc.?** **Do you spend time in math class interacting with your teacher and classmates to understand the material or are you fiddling with your cell phone?**

By answering these questions, you can gain a better understanding of your own abilities and interests, which will help in making an informed decision. Remember, taking AP Calculus AB is not a waste of time, as you will still be well-positioned for college and many of your peers may not have equivalent experience.

Conclusion

Whether you decide to take AP Calculus AB or BC, the choice should align with your personal strengths, interests, and career goals. Both courses offer valuable learning experiences, but AP Calculus BC requires a higher level of commitment and understanding. Take some time to assess your skills and consider the advice and support available to you, and you will make the right decision for your future.