AP Calc AB or BC: Which one should I take?

Hey everyone, I'm currently planning out my schedule for next year and I'm torn between taking AP Calc AB or BC. What are the main differences between the two? Would you recommend one over the other? Does either one look better for college applications?

The main differences between AP Calculus AB and AP Calculus BC lie within the scope and pace of the material. AP Calculus AB covers differential and integral calculus, generally equivalent to one semester of college-level calculus. AP Calculus BC, on the other hand, covers those topics as well as additional advanced material, generally equivalent to two semesters of college-level calculus. As a result, the BC course moves at a faster pace and covers more topics than the AB course.

As for which course to take, it depends on your individual goals and preparedness. If you are already comfortable with pre-calculus and confident in your mathematical ability, you might consider taking AP Calculus BC. This course can not only prepare you for Calc II in college but also potentially earn you credit for both Calc I and Calc II if you perform well on the AP exam. On the other hand, if you have found previous math courses challenging or prefer to focus more on the foundational concepts of calculus, AP Calculus AB might be a better fit.

In terms of college applications, taking either AP Calculus AB or BC will demonstrate to colleges that you're willing to challenge yourself with rigorous coursework. While AP Calculus BC may be slightly more impressive due to its advanced content, the most important thing is how well you perform in the class and on the AP exam. Excelling in AP Calculus AB is better than struggling in AP Calculus BC.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your mathematical aptitude and future goals. Talk to your current math teacher or a school counselor to get a better understanding of your abilities and which course might be the best fit for you.