How to Solve Physics Problems

1. Come refreshed and prepared to work.
2. Work in pencil. You must be willing to make mistakes.
3. Relax, take a deep breath, clear your mind. Don’t panic.
4. Read the problem through carefully more than once.
5. Underline or circle important information (variables and points).
6. Identify the important physical objects in the problem, including those not specifically mentioned.
7. Re-create the physical situation or make a model. Visualize the problem.
8. Think of analogous problems (types of problems) you have solved before.
9. Draw a diagram or a time line displaying the variables. Draw a Free-Body Diagram (showing all forces with magnitude and direction).
10. Follow the physical action throughout the problem, using the diagram. Estimate a reasonable value for the unknown.
11. State the assumptions.
12. Write down all the given information (use the appropriate symbol and indicate the units). Ensure that the units are consistent with each other.
13. Identify the unknown. Write down what is to found. (use the appropriate symbol and indicate the units - estimate an reasonable answer).
14. Divide the problem into parts if necessary.

Solution

1. Write down the appropriate equation(s). Determine if there is enough information to solve for the unknown in one step. If not identify a second equation and identify the common elements of each equation.
2. Solve the equation(s) ensuring that units are consistent (carry units throughout the equation).
3. Confirm that the answer is reasonable (including the sign if appropriate).
4. Re-read the question to ensure it has been answered.