With too much algebra and equations, physics can sometimes get a bit confusing. Worry not! With the right guidance, you can easily master the subject. 

Here are some tips for you to solve physics problems in the easiest way.

Step 1: Draw A Picture

What you're doing is drawing a little picture or diagram of the situation. The picture might include some numbers, some variables, some force arrows, maybe some stick figures whatever makes sense. It's not about art; it's about getting a sense of what's going on.

Step 2: List Your Variables

List all the variables you are aware of, including their numerical values and units. Some will be unstated. For example, an object that is dropped off a cliff starts with an initial velocity of 0.0 m/s and the standard downward acceleration due to gravity.

Add all of the unknown variables that might have something to do with what you are solving for to your list; leave them blank. For the variable the question is asking you to solve for, write a question mark to indicate that's what you are trying to find.

Also, assign a positive and negative direction, so you can give relevant values the appropriate sign.

A list of variables and known values alongside the diagram

Step 3: Record Appropriate Equations

There likely are only a handful of equations that could potentially aid you in solving this particular problem in physics. Those would be the equations that have the same variables that are on your list. Find them in your notes and write them down. Bonus points if you have them memorized, but write them down nonetheless because it will make the next step easier.

Write the three kinematic equations next to your list of variables

Step 4: Choose An Equation (Or Equations).

You're almost sure to have one that fits perfectly: an equation where you know everything except for the piece you care about. Sometimes you must solve for a variable from one equation and use the result in another to solve for the variable you really care about-displacement.

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Step 5: Write Down The Equation You've Chosen

Here is where most students screw up. They know which equation to use, so they try to go directly to plugging in the numbers. It can be done without messing it up, but it's not safe.

I recommend you write only the generic equation with space underneath to work, and put the numbers in directly underneath the equation you have. This avoids many mistakes.

The proper equation is written out with numbers plugged in below.

Step 6: Insert All Of The Given Numbers

Now you're really down to computation and a little algebra. But still keep careful and make it clear at every step. When your work spits out a final answer, add units, and round to the proper number of significant figures.

The numbers are now crunched, step by step, until a final answer of -31.4 m/s is given

Step 7: Reality-Check Your Answer

Whatever number you obtain, check to see that it makes sense in the context in which it occurs. If the question asks you how long it takes for a rock to fall from atop a cliff, and your answer is 6,742 seconds, this should raise a red flag somewhere.

You have everything laid out right there on paper so you shouldn't have too hard of a time going through it again to find your mistake .

Notice how I put the final velocity in as minus 31.4 m/s because I defined down to be negative-even though my calculator returned a positive answer for the square root of 988.

Here are some more general tips for you to refer to from an alumni of IIT. 

  • Strengthen your concepts. Use HCV or Halliday resnick for it .
  • Start with conceptual .Both HCV and Resnick have good conceptual questions.
  • Solve easy first. The book of RESNICK has good problem solving tactics. Large variety of questions by level.
  • Solve harder and then the toughest. If you find that you are easing on the chapter, solve IRODOVE and KROTOVE.
  • Dont give up. Students try 1 or 2 times and then leave the question or they see the solution. Try till you find you have no remaining knowledge to apply. Some questions of irodove take hours dont get frustrated for trying many times.
  • Start thinking of how easy physics is. You will have more fun solving if you think positively.
  • Clear all your doubts in time. You make a notebook to note down the most difficult questions. Also, note your mistakes in the same book. It'll help you at the time of revision.
  • Try to solve the same question in many ways. Or at least, try to think about all possible ways. 
  • Ask teachers and friends whether you can apply the method or not. In this way, you will gain concepts along with increasing your speed and accuracy.
  • Be in contact with those students who have cracked the exam well. They will give you some tips and help you come out of the difficulties.

Recap

  • Draw a diagram
  • List your variables
  • Write down the relevant equations
  • Choose an equation (or equations)
  • Write down the equation you have chosen
  • Solve the equation
  • Reality check your answer will be clear and willing to explain their terms.

Also Read: Common Challenges in Physics and How Tutors Can Help Overcome Them

Conclusion

Whenever a question makes you feel confused, work through these steps. 

Understand the key concepts, and then you can tackle this one step at a time with a very calm mind. Considering the basic elements first and how simple some of the formulas are may make physics problems not so confusing after all. Practice, practice, practice!

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