AP® Physics 1: Algebra-Based Text Books

Preparing for the AP Physics 1 exam requires dedicated study and consistent practice. Here is an expanded list of the top books to help you succeed, complete with detailed descriptions and key features for each.

1. “Physics, 10th Edition” by John D. Cutnell and Kenneth W. Johnson

Description: Introduces physics concepts with equation summaries and concept explanations at the end of each chapter. Multiple book versions available. Features:

• Thorough explanations.
• Examples and practice problems.

2. “OpenStax College Physics for AP Courses”

Description: Free in Kindle format, easy to read, student-friendly with detailed examples and illustrations. Follows the AP curriculum. Features:

• Free digital version.
• Clear illustrations and examples.

3. “College Physics: A Strategic Approach, 4th Edition” by Randall D. Knight, Brian Jones, and Stuart Field

Description: Provides detailed explanations of physics concepts, showing various problem-solving strategies and mathematical relationships. Features:

• Comprehensive explanations.
• Problem-solving strategies.

4. “College Physics (AP Edition), 10th Edition” by Raymond A. Serway and Chris Vuille

Description: Offers multiple buying options, though not as up-to-date as other textbooks. Features:

• Flexible purchasing options.
• Clear explanations.

5. “College Physics for the AP® Physics 1 Course, 2nd Edition” by Gay Stewart, Todd Cook, and David Maloney

Description: Follows the AP curriculum with clear examples and numerous practice problems. Features:

• Curriculum-aligned.
• Numerous practice problems.

6. “Barron’s AP Physics 1” by Kenneth Rideout

Description: Includes four practice tests (two online and two in the book), with in-depth concept explanations and examples for each unit. Features:

• Multiple practice tests.
• Detailed explanations.

7. “The Princeton Review’s Cracking the AP Physics 1 Exam”

Description: Contains two practice tests and comprehensive unit overviews, great for understanding big picture ideas. Features:

• Comprehensive overviews.
• Practice tests.

8. “5 Steps to a 5: AP Physics 1” by Greg Jacobs

Description: Offers extensive practice drills for mastering concepts with good introductory-level concept descriptions. Features:

• Extensive practice drills.
• Introductory explanations.

9. “AP Physics 1 Essentials” by Dan Fullerton

Description: Features interactive questions that boost conceptual understanding and provides a simplified version of physics textbooks. Features:

• Interactive questions.
• Simplified content.

10. “Sterling Test Prep AP Physics 1 Practice Questions: High Yield AP Physics 1 Questions”

Description: Focuses on high-yield practice questions with detailed explanations to help students prepare effectively for the exam. Features:

• High-yield questions.
• Detailed explanations.

These ten textbooks and review guides offer comprehensive coverage of the topics required for AP Physics 1: Algebra-Based. They provide numerous examples, practice problems, and test-taking strategies to help students master the material and excel in the course.