Physics Study in Gap Time after High School Suggestion

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around suggestions for productive activities during a six-month gap between high school graduation and starting a Bachelor of Science in Physics. Participants explore various approaches to maintaining and advancing their knowledge in physics and mathematics during this period.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant inquires about the best ways to utilize free time, considering reading introductory college textbooks and whether to revisit basic materials or follow undergraduate syllabi.
  • Another participant recommends using introductory college textbooks, specifically mentioning Serway & Jewitt, and suggests checking MIT open course resources for syllabi and video lectures.
  • A third participant points out the availability of free resources for introductory physics and calculus on a specific website.
  • One participant shares their personal experience of studying first-year calculus, linear algebra, and physics textbooks to prepare for university, expressing a desire to grasp the main concepts and theorems.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally share similar experiences and suggestions, but there is no consensus on a single best approach to fill the gap time, as various methods and resources are proposed.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about whether to review basic materials or focus on undergraduate syllabi, highlighting a lack of clarity on the most effective study strategy during the gap period.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals preparing for university studies in physics or related fields, particularly those with a gap period before starting their degree.

Seydlitz
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Hi all,

I would like to know if you guys could suggest me what's the best way to fill my free time (six months) between graduating high school and entering university. I will be taking Bachelor of Science with major in Physics. I also have plan to continue my study further if possible. However I don't know exactly what's the best way to spend my free time in the mean time. I really wish I don't forget most of the materials taught in high school. (UK A Level standard)

Should I start to read college introductory text-books such as University Physics and perhaps also mathematical text-books to advance my knowledge? If yes, what are your suggested syllabus? Is it necessary to read through the basic again or should I just follow the syllabus of basic physics undergraduate? (such as those listed in IOP website)

Thank you for your time

P.S: I also want to know what do you think if one takes language or music course in addition to that?
 
Last edited:
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Hi!

I would suggest any introductory college textbook, Serway & Jewitt are great. As for course syllabus, you could look on MIT open course where and search for introductory courses to physics (classical) and Calculus 1 classes and work your way from there. They have a great syllabus to follow for each class. Some even have video taped lecture videos. Also, there is nothing wrong with taking a couple electives to switch things up! Goodluck!
 
Thank you very much guys, I'll surely look at all of the given links. :)

Do any of you has experience in facing the same situation as mine? If yes I'd like to know what did you do also.
 
I'm actually in the exact same position as you, given I start university this upcoming fall. In preparation for first year (and just simply for excitement), I am studying directly from first-year calculus, linear algebra and physics textbooks. I hope to at least obtain an overview of the main notions/theorems outlined in these books.
 
NATURE.M said:
I'm actually in the exact same position as you, given I start university this upcoming fall. In preparation for first year (and just simply for excitement), I am studying directly from first-year calculus, linear algebra and physics textbooks. I hope to at least obtain an overview of the main notions/theorems outlined in these books.

Alright I'll try to read some of the preliminary materials. Thank you!
 

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