I want to take physics as a sophmore in highschool

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

High school students can successfully take physics as sophomores even without strong mental math skills. The discussion emphasizes that proficiency in algebra and a basic understanding of trigonometry are sufficient for tackling most introductory physics problems. Participants agree that using paper and pencils for calculations is a practical approach, allowing students to focus on problem-solving logic rather than mental arithmetic.

PREREQUISITES
  • Algebra proficiency
  • Basic understanding of trigonometry
  • Familiarity with introductory physics concepts
  • Problem-solving skills
NEXT STEPS
  • Study algebraic principles relevant to physics
  • Learn basic trigonometric functions and their applications
  • Explore introductory physics textbooks or online courses
  • Practice solving physics problems using paper and pencil
USEFUL FOR

High school students considering physics, educators advising students, and anyone looking to strengthen their foundational math skills for science courses.

goredsox
Messages
1
Reaction score
0
I would like to take physics as a sophmore in high school, but I can't do math in my head at all. I can work through problems though. Also I don't take any accelerated math or science classes, yes it is still possible to do physics.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Then don't do math in your head. There's a reason paper and pencils exist.

Just make sure you're fine with algebra, and learn some trig, and you'll be good with most introductory physics problems.
 
thrill3rnit3 said:
Then don't do math in your head. There's a reason paper and pencils exist.

Just make sure you're fine with algebra, and learn some trig, and you'll be good with most introductory physics problems.

That's right. It's one thing to think through the logic of a problem in your head, to plan out your approach. But actually doing calculations in your head? There's no need for that.
 

Similar threads

Programs Is it too late for me to get into Physics?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K
Struggling in my freshman year of Physics at university
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
3K
Courses What are the best A-Level options for someone wanting to do Physics?
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
2K
Studying How to self-study physics past High School Level?
  • · Replies 102 ·
4
Replies
102
Views
9K
Other Long-term challenging physics project for high school
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Any tips for doing a PhD in theoretical physics?
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
4K
Studying How to study for Electromagnetism or something else in high school level?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Programs Would Engineering Physics be a good major for what I want to do?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
What is the best math to take with highschool physics?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Courses Need help in choosing math classes for a HS student
  • · Replies 32 ·
2
Replies
32
Views
4K