AP Physics without prior Physics?

I'm thinking about taking AP Physics next year but I haven't taken a physics course before. Is this common or do most students usually take regular physics before diving into the AP version? Would it be too difficult for me?

It's not uncommon for students to take AP Physics without prior physics coursework, though the level of difficulty and preparedness necessary will depend on the specific AP Physics course you plan to take. There are a few different AP Physics courses offered:

1. AP Physics 1: This is an algebra-based course typically designed for students taking their first physics class. Since this course is specifically designed for beginners, you should be able to handle it without prior experience in physics as long as you have a strong foundation in math.

2. AP Physics 2: This is also an algebra-based course and a continuation of the subjects covered in AP Physics 1. While it is recommended to take AP Physics 1 before this course, it might still be possible to succeed in AP Physics 2 without prior physics experience if you're willing to put in additional effort to catch up on the foundational topics.

3. AP Physics C: Mechanics and AP Physics C: Electricity & Magnetism: These are both calculus-based courses, recommended for students who have already completed (or are currently taking) a calculus course. It is more common for students who take these courses to have had some previous physics experience because of the more advanced math involved.

Before making your decision, consider your mathematical background and your interest in physics. If you have a strong math foundation and are eager to learn the subject, it's likely that you will be able to manage AP Physics without prior experience, especially if you opt for AP Physics 1.

However, if you're concerned about difficulty and preparedness, you can talk to your school's guidance counselor, current physics teacher, or students who have already taken the course to get additional insight on the curriculum and workload. This will help you make an informed decision about whether to take an AP Physics course without previous physics experience.