Mastering Physics Problem Solving: Tips and Strategies for Beginners

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Understanding how to solve physics problems, especially in a calculus-based course like PHY2053, can be challenging for beginners. The key to mastering problem-solving in physics is practice; consistently working through problems, even if many are initially incorrect, leads to improvement. Over time, students will transition from making frequent mistakes to achieving correct solutions, ultimately developing the ability to derive formulas. While specific book recommendations were not provided, the emphasis is on engaging with a variety of problems to build confidence and skill in applying the right equations effectively.
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I have never taken physics before and honestly don't know the best way of learning to solve problems. I am in PHY2053 I understand concepts ok, but have no idea how to go about solving the problems, finding the right equations to solve the problems, or knowing when to use one equation vs. another.

Is there a book or something someone can recommend on understanding how to solve physics problems with calc.
 
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Take it from a guy who went from 6th grade science straight into college calc-based physics: Best thing to do is just solve problems. You'll get them wrong. Lots of them. Then you'll start getting a few right. Then several. Then the only mistakes you make are algebra. Then you'll be deriving abstract formulas. It'll feel good.
 

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