Is AP Chemistry Hard? Is AP Chem Worth Taking?

Overview of AP Chemistry

Format of the Exam

Image Courtesy of College Board

Image Courtesy of College Board

Well, How Hard is AP Chem, Really?

Data

• 11.5% got a 5 in 2019 🥳

• 55.6% passed the exam and got a 3+ in 2019 🎉

Factors to Consider

1. Workload: Even though this factor changes based upon your teacher, expect plenty of work!
   1. It is best to set aside about 30 minutes to an hour every day to focus just on AP Chem. You may have homework that helps reinforce the topics you recently learned, but even if you didn't, it's really helpful to do some practice questions and review the lesson. With this routine throughout the year, you're setting yourself up for success!
   2. If you think is overwhelming, it's okay! Everyone has their own way to work and study. We all know people who cram the night before and somehow do really well on their exams. As long as you can prepare for your exams and study, this course is definitely manageable.
2. Motivation: Motivation plays a huge part in school, in general. A little bit of motivation can help you through the day, and complete everything on your to-do list ✅ If you are going to take AP Chem, set a goal for yourself, and celebrate doing the little things!
   1. Whether or not you love chemistry, or even studying in general, you can definitely find motivation by setting a goal 🏆
3. Time commitment: If you know you're going to take lots of other hard classes and participate in tons of sports and extracurriculars, don't push yourself. Do what you think you can handle and what is best for you.

Is AP Chem Worth it Though?

1. Your interests: If you love science, AP Chem is definitely a viable option. If not, it may not be the best choice. AP Chem also explains a lot about how the world 🌍 works.
   1. If you plan to major in medicine, AP Chemistry is a great way to gain background knowledge for the courses you will take in college. If not, you may find it hard to commit to this class when you also have other difficult classes to manage.
2. Challenge: At times, especially towards the end of the year, you may find the course really challenging. Sometimes a challenge is good, though. No matter what, you could always work through it, especially with all the resources provided for you. If you really want to challenge yourself and gain new skills, AP Chem is a good class to take.
3. Credit: Many colleges don't accept the credit for AP Chemistry because a good foundation of chemistry knowledge is required in future chemistry classes 🧪 Trust me, this is for your own good! Regardless, taking the class will ease your stress when you take the college-level introductory class.

Quotes from Students that have taken AP Chemistry

"AP Chemistry provided me with skills and modes of thinking that require critical thinking and analysis. It was so interesting to learn about the chemical world around us, whether it be learning about the smallest building blocks that form matter, the ideas behind thermodynamics and kinetics, or discovering the distinctive properties of various elements." —Meghna P.

"The beautiful thing about chemistry is that the more you understand it, the more interesting and mind-blowing it becomes!" —Mishika G

"Sometimes, it's harder for you to understand something than it is for someone else. Everyone is different. Pick yourself back up, ask for help, and just do your best!"—Giuliana P.

As always, we've got your back...

Closing Thoughts