PCS is renowned for its STEAM-enriched curriculum, offering a wide variety of Advanced Placement and college preparatory classes. According to US News, PCS is ranked 1st in Santa Cruz and 8th in California in terms of best high school. From multivariable calculus to AP Chemistry, there is no denying that PCS’s classes are extremely challenging. So how have students managed to get through these classes? Starting with math, review the homework and any practice problems or practice quizzes available to you. Previous tests or exams also count as practice, and you should make sure that you understand anything that you got wrong before. Another resource are the after school math labs, hosted by different teachers on different dates. Next, for history classes, especially AP World History and AP US History, Heimler, Glankler, and other online resources are extremely helpful. Similarly, for science classes, follow Organic Chemistry Tutor and Khan Academy for extra help. For AP English classes like AP Literature and AP Language, a strong understanding of rhetorical devices, literary analysis, and essay structure is key. Resources such as the Barron’s and Princeton Review AP English books can help students prepare with practice essays, multiple choice questions, and detailed breakdowns of past exam questions. In addition to these, reading a wide range of literary texts—from classic novels to modern essays—can build the critical reading skills necessary for success. Practicing timed essays and reviewing strong sample responses can also boost confidence for the AP exam. Across the board, AP classes demand time management and familiarity with the exam format. Barron’s and Princeton Review series are great for nearly every AP subject, offering summaries, flashcards, practice tests, and exam strategies. It’s a good idea to begin reviewing early and to use these materials alongside your classroom notes and teacher-provided resources. Forming small study groups or attending review sessions can also help solidify your understanding of challenging topics. For world language classes such as Spanish, French, or Chinese, Barron’s AP Language books often include grammar reviews, vocabulary lists, and mock exams that mirror the AP format. In addition, using apps like Duolingo or Quizlet can reinforce vocabulary and grammar concepts in a more interactive way.