ap classes

I am so curious to how hard an AP class really is. Could it be total hell for me? or could it be just as normal as any other class. Does the name AP make it much different then if it weren't there? I think AP classes will be way harder than standard classes, but at the same time easier to learn and pay attention. Most people in standard classes don't really care if they don't have good grades. They usually care if they are passing or failing. People who take AP classes are people that want good grades, so they pay attention and try to learn. I think the title just seems scarier than the actual class.