Learn Physics: Best Self-Teaching Methods

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Teaching oneself physics can be effectively approached through a combination of problem-solving and theoretical understanding. Engaging with textbooks like "Physics for Scientists and Engineers" by Serway and Jewett is beneficial, especially when practicing problems and comparing solutions. However, motivation to work through problems varies by individual. For deeper comprehension of physics concepts, exploring journal articles can be valuable. While some learners may feel intimidated by academic journals, they can be accessed through university libraries, which often provide a wealth of resources. For those interested in specific fields like astrophysics, guidance on suitable journals can help in navigating this aspect of self-study.
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I am trying to teach myself physics. I have been going through the book "physics for scientists and engineers" by serway and jewett and doing all the problems in the back of the book and comparing my answers with the solution manual. I also downloaded all the physics lecture from MIT and Yale. I know a good majority of the people here are much more experienced than I, so i ask, is this the best way to self teach yourself?
 
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atypical said:
I also downloaded all the physics lecture from MIT and Yale. I know a good majority of the people here are much more experienced than I, so i ask, is this the best way to self teach yourself?

That's different from person to person, so you'll have to figure out what works for you. Doing a lot of problems is something that is pretty essential, but how you can set things up so that you have the motivation to do lots of problems is different from person to person.

If you really want to learn physics (as opposed to problem solving using physics), what I find useful is to go to a library, open up a journal article and try to make sense of it.
 
twofish-quant said:
If you really want to learn physics (as opposed to problem solving using physics), what I find useful is to go to a library, open up a journal article and try to make sense of it.


I'm taking Physics I, but I have never read a journal article. I don't even know where to begin...I'm at a large university, so they have a good selection. I'm interested in astrophysics but am studying the three fundamental principles. Could you point me in the right direction as to journals to find?
 
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