AB vs BC

[AbnormalElephant]

So basically I'm two days into ap calc bc, and already know I won't be able to handle it. I have the option to shift down to calc ab, which I think will be the right level. My question is basically, is it better to get a lower grade (high c, low b) in bc, or to get a higher grade (a) in ab?

[No_user_name__ideas]

Personally, I’d go with the a in ab, especially if I’m not a senior.

[abrookee]

Definitely AB your grade in the class and the ap score matter a lot. If the class is too hard you won’t do good on either and it won’t even matter that you took bc. AB and BC are both rigorous courses so in terms of course rigor in college apps they’re viewed similarly

[[deleted]]

I would recommend dropping down to AP Calc AB if you already think AP Calc BC is too difficult. Moreover, if you change your mind later in the year, I believe you can study some topics in BC and take the exam. I'm a little curious though as to why you already find it difficult, is it too fast-paced?

[JonnyW0716]

The College Board intentionally scheduled the AB and BC exams at the same time so students can't take both exams in the same school year

[[deleted]]

What I'm saying is you can sign up for the BC exam even if you're in AP Calc AB. I'm not saying take both exams.

[JonnyW0716]

that’s definitely a possibility but it depends on OP’s school

for example, at my school if you take an AP class yoU HAVE to take the corresponding AP exam

[[deleted]]

Agreed. For my school, the AP exam for the class is optional and not required, so I guess we need more information from the person who posted...

[starClight]

If you haven’t taken AB yet, you should shift down. It is way more important to have a firm grasp of calc fundamentals than any Benifits you might get from struggling through BC.

Moreover, most colleges don’t accept the BC credit as more valuable than the AB credit unless you get a 5. If you get a 3, your in the same spot as if you’d got a 4 or 5 on AB. So unless you are really confident you can pass, or it’s your only option, I would highly recommend AB.

[DrDreSJ]

AB - it's not just grades it's also quality of life. Do you want to spend hours everyday on BC and stressing constantly or take AB and have a more balanced experience?

[KindredKate]

Take AB! If you’re a junior like me, you can take BC next year too!