PROBLEM

This is your first physics class in college. It will mostly likely be faster paced and require a deeper level of understanding compared to your high school classes.

Problem Solving Strategies

There are a lot of websites and information out there on techniques for solving physics problems. I've included a few at the bottom. Here is a condensed list:

Here are a few tips :

- Just like math, this is a class where later topics build on earlier concepts. So if the first few classes are really hard, get help right away

- Some people will very easily be able to do the first problem sets in their head, and won't write out their work. THIS IS BAD! One day very soon you'll get a problem that you can't do in your head and its hard to figure out where to start. See the problem solving tips ->

- TA's are great resources, especially in large classes where the professor might not know you personally. I can help you with homework, give study tips, and know your name.

1) Write down the important variables in the problem, and if they are "known" or "unknown"
2) Draw a diagram of the problem that uses these variables as labels. Use symbols, not numbers.
3) Write separate equations for the x- and y-components of the problem, using trig identities if necessary. Use symbols, not numbers. :o)
4) Solve the system of equations for the unknowns. Either a) plug in numbers and check to make sure the result is sensible with appropriate units or b) use dimensional analysis to check your symbolic answer.