Physics Formula Symbols

Thus, we cannot afford to have Physics without the Math

Organize the given information.

Once you've read the problem once or twice, you may now go back and gather the values given in the problem. Make sure to identify the correct values for each given quantity. Some problems name the values straight away like "given a mass of 5 kg" while others need familiarity with the quantities to be identified like "a 500-N man" which gives the weight of the man.

It is often helpful to list them down in an organized manner. You can choose to write it in tabular form or list them down neatly.

Draw the problem.

Free body diagrams are examples of illustrations for Physics problems. But you cannot use this for all problems. It would be helpful if you have your own way or illustrating problems to understand it better. It doesn't necessarily mean you need to be good in drawing (my elephant always looks like a pig so I label it "ELEPHANT!!!" for my class). Stick figures, shapes and symbols will do for as long as you know what it meant and it is a clear representation of the problem.

Check your units.

One way that helps in identifying if you have correct values for the quantities is by looking at the units. You must be familiar with the standard units of the quantities like N for force, kg for mass, m/s for speed/velocity, m/s2 for acceleration and many other units. This could lessen the mistakes you might commit when you solve the problem and may even be your guide in checking if you're on the right track.

Recall your formula.

From the list of given quantities, look for a formula that would give you what you need for the problem but doesn't lack too much quantities. An ideal formula would lack just one quantity. If there is none, learn to combine useful formulas to arrive at what you need. But be very careful so as not to interchange formulas from with different concepts.

Apply the math.

Substitute the values correctly and do the math.

If it is a simple problem that you can do manually, be very careful in evaluating the expressions. Make sure that every decimal point is placed correctly and every answer is written clearly. A "4" could look like a "9" when written in a hurry.

Solving simple problems manually is a very big help to exercise the mind and keep it fit.

If it involves more complex or very small or big number, use the calculator with care. Some incorrect answers are because of incorrect calculator inputs! Most of my previous students' mistakes came from incorrectly inputting values in their calculators from a simple missing decimal point/digit to a wrong exponent.

If possible, after getting the answer and writing it down on your paper, do a second run of solving and perform checking to ensure you are doing it right.

Go back and check everything.

Once you're done with everything, go back to the beginning, from the problem, and check every step of your solution. Look carefully for inconsistencies in the units, substitutions or formula manipulation as well as the evaluation of the values. It is always beneficial if you make sure you got everything right than a "I should have checked" line afterwards.