I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed as school starts soon and I'm supposed to take AP Computer Science A this year. For the last eight months, I've been working hard on Python through a long tutorial, but I'm only halfway through. I was also asked to learn physics for the summer, which took away valuable time I could have spent on coding. Now I'm worried I won't be ready for the AP course, especially since I briefly tried learning Java earlier this year before sticking to Python. I really want to be able to create projects like a chess AI or a weather app, but I'm still far from that. Should I focus on completing my Python course first or start learning Java? Any advice on how to succeed in AP Comp Sci would be appreciated!
4 Answers
It really comes down to what language your AP class will be using. If it’s Java, you might want to pick up some basics on the syntax. But don’t stress too much; they'll generally teach you from scratch. If it's not Java, staying with Python is a solid choice, especially since you’ve already invested time in it. Try to code a little every day; it’ll help you feel accomplished as you work on your projects!
Definitely don’t stress too much, just focus on being comfortable with what you know for now!
Have you considered starting with C instead? It might be tough, but it offers a strong foundation. If C is too hard, programming might not be your thing, but it’s worth a shot!
I’d recommend sticking with Java for now. Get comfortable with the basics and look for study groups or tutoring after school starts. If you find you're struggling, don't hesitate to seek help from your teacher or peers. Staying on top of things early can really help your chances on the AP test!
What issues did you have with C++? I often see beginners struggling with the more complex parts like OOP concepts or pointers. Understanding those might really help you with Java or Python later on!
I found the concepts of macros and smart pointers really confusing. They just felt like a lot to take in!
I totally agree! Once you're comfortable with one language, picking up others becomes easier. Check out some clear tutorial videos, like the ones from Programming with Mosh. They’re concise and help you get up to speed quickly.