AP Physics 1

Advanced Placement Physics 1 covers the fundamentals of mechanics, waves, and electricity in preparation for college-level physics.

Study Strategies

Solving Problems Step-by-Step

Break Big Challenges Into Small Steps

Physics problems can seem overwhelming, but a step-by-step approach makes them manageable:

  1. Start by identifying what you know and what you’re solving for.
  2. Draw diagrams, including free-body diagrams if necessary.
  3. Write down relevant formulas and substitute known values.
  4. Solve algebraically before plugging in numbers.
  5. Double-check units and your answer's reasonableness.

This method ensures you don’t miss important details and gives you confidence even on tough questions.

Examples

  • Listing out all known variables before starting calculations in a projectile motion problem.

  • Checking your final answer to see if it makes sense physically (e.g., negative time doesn't make sense!).