Is it better to take a challenging course and get a lower grade or an easier course and get an A?

Hi guys, I'm a junior in high school and I'm trying to decide between taking a challenging course in my senior year that I might not get an A in, or taking an easier course and getting a higher grade. Will colleges look more favorably on a challenging course with a lower grade, or an easier course with a higher grade? Thanks for any advice!

Hi there! It's great that you're thinking ahead about your senior year schedule and how it might impact your college applications. As a parent who recently went through this process with my child, I can share some insights I've gained. Colleges often look for students who challenge themselves academically, so taking a more rigorous course can be beneficial. However, it's essential to strike a balance between challenging yourself and maintaining a strong GPA. If you believe you can handle the difficult course and still perform reasonably well (like a B or B+), it may be worth it to take the tougher class, as it can help demonstrate your ability to succeed in a challenging environment. On the other hand, if you think the difficult course might significantly lower your GPA or negatively impact your other classes, it might be best to go for the easier course and ensure a higher grade. Ultimately, you should assess your abilities and consider how much time you're willing to dedicate to the class. Good luck with your decision!