Having trouble solving physics problems? There is a simple and logical sequence of processes in solving all physics problems.
Step
Step 1. Calm down
It's just a matter of physics, not the end of your world.
Step 2. Read your entire problem once
If the question is long, read and understand the parts until you understand a bit.
Step 3. Draw the diagram
You have no idea how easy a physics problem is when it's drawn into a diagram. Ideally, you'll be drawing a free body diagram, but simply imagining the description of the problem in your head (such as a graph) will really help solve the problem more easily. Sometimes, the teacher gives extra marks for drawing the diagram correctly. If you have done it, if you can try to make a moving image, like a film. This is not necessary, but it will give you a clear understanding of the problem.
Step 4. List all given questions under the category titled “Known”
For example, you are given the number two speed. Label the first speed as V1, and the second as V2, then equal both of them with the respective numbers given by the problem.
Step 5. Find the unknown variable
Ask yourself, ‘What am I going to solve?’ and ‘What is the unknown variable in the problem?’ List them under the category titled “Asked”.
Step 6. List the formulas that you think are appropriate to solve the problem
If you're allowed to look up formulas you didn't memorize and find a formula that looks like it could be used to solve the problem, write it down.
Step 7. Choose the right formula
Sometimes there are many formulas that use the same variables and you are confused about which one to use. Therefore, when you memorize the formula, keep in mind the conditions of application (conditions that allow the formula to be used). For example, -v = u + at can be used only when the acceleration is constant. Therefore, if the acceleration in the problem is not constant, this formula cannot be used. It also helps you understand the subject matter in general.
Step 8. Solve the equation
Use the formula and solve for the variables one by one. Complete each variable listed in the “Asked” category. Try solving the easier variables first.
Step 9. Continue to repeat the previous step in turn for each variable being asked
If one variable can't be resolved, try another one first as it may be possible to resolve the new variable after new information from other answers is available.
Step 10. Box, circle, or underline your answers to make them look neat
Tips
- Many people say that if they just skip a question for a while and work on it later, they find new perspectives and sometimes find easy ways to answer questions they didn't realize before.
- If the questions are difficult enough, try to solve the easier ones first. Maybe later you will find a way to solve it.
- Try to understand the question first.
- It is said that the material is like a pyramid. New information is formed from old information. Or in other words, “the material is like a pyramid made of tendrils. Information is formed from each other but also strung together. Don't see each subject as an isolated individual, all information is mixed into one whole subject.
- Don't forget, the physics part of the problem is figuring out what's being done, drawing diagrams, and memorizing formulas. The rest is just algebra, trigonometry, and/or calculus applications, depending on the difficulty level of your problem.
- If you're taking a physics exam, try chewing gum or eating popcorn to calm your nerves. You will "eat" all the nervousness you feel.
- If you have trouble doing the questions, don't hesitate to ask! Seek help if needed. That's what your instructor or teacher is for. Or, ask a friend or fellow student. Maybe they have other perspectives that open up your understanding. if you can, try to understand the mindset and try to find out where you are lacking and why. If you already know, you can develop yourself.
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Solve variables!
If you figure out how to solve the problem with variables first, you can go back and enter the numbers. If you only solve problems with numbers, the risk of miscalculation increases. Remember, numbers are not very accurate and variables are fixed.
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Keep a positive attitude!
If it helps, daydream a little. That way, you can relax and focus more on the problem.
Warning
- Physics is not easy for everyone to understand, so don't blame yourself too much if you have trouble solving problems
- If the instructor tells you to draw a style diagram, make sure you draw a style diagram.
