What's true about AP classes?

I've been considering taking AP classes in the following school year to strengthen my academic record. There's a lot of mixed info out there about what they actually involve and how much of an impact they have on college applications. Anyone here who took AP who can share their experiences? Specifically, what's legitimately true about AP classes?

AP (Advanced Placement) classes are college-level courses that dive deeper into specific academic subjects, offering rigorous coursework and a chance to earn college credit while still in high school. Here are some key facts:

1. Rigorous Coursework: AP classes are indeed challenging. They require a significant amount of studying, homework, and reading. Time management and organizational skills are vital for success, as AP classes are at a higher academic level than most standard high school courses.

2. College Credit: Students who score well on the AP exams (typically a 3 or higher on a scale of 5) may receive college credit, depending on the specific university's policy. This can allow students to skip introductory-level courses in college.

3. Breadth and Depth: AP classes span a wide range of subjects, from Calculus and Humanities to Environmental Science and Art History. This gives students an opportunity to delve deeper into a subject they're passionate about.

4. College Applications: While AP exam scores are not a make-or-break factor for college applications, the rigor of your high school classes is a significant factor in college admissions. Universities like to see students challenging themselves.

5. Improvement of Skills: AP courses can help in refining certain academic skills. For instance, AP English can enhance your writing skills, while AP History can improve your research capabilities.

Remember though, loading your schedule with AP classes is not always the best strategy. Quality over quantity applies here, as colleges value students' ability to perform well in AP courses, not just their willingness to take numerous APs.

Lastly, AP classes may not be the best fit for every student. The workload and intensity can differ from one school to another. It's a good idea to discuss your course choices with your school counselor, considering your academic goals, strengths, and schedule.