#ap physics 1

and how you can too!

the problem-solving strat:

visualize concepts: when learning torque especially, it helped if I used an object (usually my pencil) and actually tilted it or rotated it. this helped me visualize pivot points and which direction the object would rotate based on the direction of forces

visualize problems: always draw out the problem. no matter if the question seems easy, still draw everything! it's generally a good habit to get into, and it really helps with all the problems

multiple choice questions (mcqs...):

units, units, units: look what it's asking for. what are the units for what it is asking for? look at the values you are given. now how can you go from the given units to the wanted units?

know how each formula works: yes, you're given a formula sheet, but it's useless when you don't know the types of formulas for the types of problems. review your formulas and, more importantly, do those practice problems.

practice problems: they are important. more important that taking notes or watching videos on the concepts. there will be no "grasping of the content" until you've done practice problems. and do hard ones, too. not the ones on khan academy, but actually tough ones, especially towards ap season.

free response questions (the dreaded frqs):

FRQ's are your best friend: why? the graders give you points for correct steps, even if your answer is wrong.show what formula you’re using, plug in numbers clearly, and always include units. think of it like showing your work for partial credit…because it is showing your work for partial credit

practice the lab format: practice writing clear step-by-step procedures that are specific and account for any potential error. usually that means doing more than one trial. know how to list materials properly, like you're setting up a lab for someone else.

learn how to change equations into graphs: identify which variable is changing and which is constant. think: if I graphed this, what would the slope of the line of best fit represent? in many problems, slope of the line = a key quantity that you need to look out for!

okay so AP physics 1 has the highest fail rate of any AP exams. but somehow?? ur girl got a 5. and now you've just got a few more strategies so you can bag that 5 too!