Physics Study Tip #1

Study Tip 1:  Active Recall

Whether you are just starting to study Physics or have been studying it for years, you might be stuck on the best study techniques. In this post, we will talk about an effective method for studying this subject.

Physics is a weird subject to study as it combines learning definitions by heart and working problems out. So, you might be good at remembering laws and definitions but struggle with math, or you excel at math while having difficulty remembering definitions. Do not worry as learning does not go from 0 to 100, but it is a maze, you might feel as if you are making progress but arrive at a dead end. Don’t worry because we can get through it together.

The most popular study techniques are rereading, highlighting, and writing the notes that you have. However, these are ineffective when studying a subject such as physics. An effective, and scientifically proven, way to study physics and make information stick is Active Recall. 

This study method makes you retrieve facts from your brain as this strengthens neural connections so that it is easier to ‘recall’ them when working on questions.

This method is not as time-consuming as other techniques and can be used with minimal effort and training (Dunlosky et al., 2013). So how can you use it to study?

1. Flashcards:

Using flashcards is a great way to recall information from memory. There are a lot of ready-made resources out there:

Online: anki flashcards and quizlet

Physical: https://pastudymt.com/collections/o-level-physics-flashcards

2. Closed-book spider diagram;

Another study method is to read your school notes, close the book, and then write down everything you remember on a piece of paper (without worrying about neatness). Afterward, open your book to check what you missed and what you got right. This approach helps you take notes more effectively.

3. Questions:

Finally, Physics is a subject where practice makes perfect, so ditch the notes and grab the past papers. Even if you have just started learning Physics, past papers are the way to go.

Links and references:

Dunlosky J, Rawson KA, Marsh EJ, Nathan MJ, Willingham DT. Improving Students' Learning With Effective Learning Techniques: Promising Directions From Cognitive and Educational Psychology. Psychol Sci Public Interest. 2013 Jan;14(1):4-58. doi: 10.1177/1529100612453266. PMID: 26173288.

Anki flashcards: https://apps.ankiweb.net/

Quizlet flashcards: https://quizlet.com/

Physical flashcards Y9: https://pastudymt.com/products/physics-flashcards-year-9

Physical flashcards Y10: https://pastudymt.com/products/physics-flashcards-year-10

Physical flashcards Y11: https://pastudymt.com/products/physics-flashcards-year-11