How to Study AP Physics

My Experience with AP Physics:

When I started AP Physics, I knew it would be tough. Whether it was AP Physics 1 or AP Physics 2, I had to really understand physics, solve problems, and do experiments. Here's how I did well in the class and on the AP Physics test.

The AP Physics Test

The test had two parts: multiple-choice and free-response questions. First, there were 50 multiple-choice questions in 90 minutes. They tested what I knew about physics and how I could solve problems. Then, there were free-response questions. I had 90 minutes to answer short answer and essay questions. I had to show I could use physics ideas. Both parts counted the same for my score.

When to Take AP Physics

You don't need special classes to take AP Physics, but it helps to be good at high school physics and maths. Physics and math go hand in hand in AP Physics class. Math helps us talk about and solve physics problems. Algebra helps us mess with equations, trigonometry is useful for understanding angles and stuff that goes in cycles, and geometry helps in things like optics. Sometimes, we need calculus for rate changes and adding up stuff. Vectors are cool for things with both size and direction, like forces. We also use math to create models and figure out graphs. Being good with calculators and computer tools helps too. Most students take AP Physics in 11th or 12th grade, for this reason.

How I Studied

To do well, I used these tricks:

• First Check: I took a practice test and did sample questions. This showed me what I was good at and where I needed help.

• Study a Lot: I focused on what I didn't know and used Khan Academy, College Board's AP Central, The Physics Classroom, HyperPhysics, and MIT OpenCourseWare for resources. YouTube's "Flipping Physics" and "Michel van Biezen" are great for videos, and Physics Forums is for chatting

• Math Skills: I worked on my math skills because physics needs math. Algebra, trigonometry, and calculus are important.

• Hands-On: I practiced experiments and learned how to use lab equipment.

• Understand Ideas: Physics is not just numbers. I made sure to understand the main ideas.

• Practice Problems: I did lots of practice problems from books and online.These problems covered a wide range of topics like kinematics, forces, energy, circuits, and more. They really helped me understand the concepts better and improve my critical thinking skills

Where I Got Help

I found books and stuff that helped me:

• "Physics for Scientists and Engineers" by Serway and Jewett

• "University Physics" by Young and Freedman

• Khan Academy: They have videos and practice problems.

• AP Physics Review Books: Some books are made just for AP Physics.

I also took another practice test after I studied to see if I got better.

My Study Routine

I made a study plan that worked for me. I studied constantly for an hour every day and reviewed electromagnetism and waves . It was challenging, dealing with stuff like Maxwell's equations and quantum mechanics a lot.

Useful Apps

I used apps on my phone to learn physics words and solve problems. Some cost money, so I read reviews first.I also used Khan Academy's app for video lessons and practice problems. Quizlet is great for flashcards, and Chegg Study has step by step solutions. When I need help with complex calculations, I use Wolfram Alpha, and for interactive simulations, I use PhET.

I realized that doing great in AP Physics was mostly about practicing regularly and not leaving everything to the last minute. By having a good study plan, using helpful materials, and working hard, I did really well in AP Physics and understood how physics relates to our everyday world.

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