Please help me start studying physics

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around how to start studying physics, particularly for someone who is self-motivated and not currently in a formal educational setting. Participants explore the appropriate order of subjects to study, the necessary mathematical background, and resources for learning, with a focus on astrophysics and quantum physics as areas of interest.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks guidance on the order of subjects to study in physics and the type of mathematics needed alongside it.
  • Another participant inquires about the original poster's prior knowledge in physics and mathematics.
  • The original poster shares their background, indicating they have completed GCSE maths and physics with high grades and have some experience with A-levels before pausing their studies due to COVID-19.
  • Some participants suggest that understanding personal goals is important for effective study, questioning whether the original poster has specific topics in mind or enjoys solving math problems.
  • The original poster expresses a strong interest in astrophysics and quantum physics, mentioning a desire to rekindle their passion for the subjects after a break from formal education.
  • Resources such as the A-level mathematics syllabus and Khan Academy are recommended for refreshing knowledge.
  • One participant suggests aiming for Andrew Liddle's "Introduction to Modern Cosmology" as a goal once foundational skills are built up.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of identifying personal goals in studying physics and the value of foundational knowledge in mathematics. However, there is no consensus on a specific order of subjects or a definitive path to follow, as individual preferences and backgrounds vary.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects a range of experiences and knowledge levels among participants, with some providing resources while others focus on personal motivations for studying physics. There are unresolved aspects regarding the best approach to structuring self-study in physics.

Samat03
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Could anyone please give me the right order of subjects to start studying physics? And if possible what type of maths I need to go alongside it. I'm not in any type of school I just wanna do this in my free time and have no idea where to start.
Thanks
 
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Are you completely new to the subject or do you already have some physics or maths knowledge?
 
So I've done GCSE maths and physics both with A*, I had started A levels in the same subjects but then left everything when covid happened and havent done anything since so a good refresher would help about GCSE level and last thing i can remember doing in college was calculating the bending light through water if that helps
 
If it is just for fun then it probably would be important to understand your goals/desires. Do you want to do or learn something specific? Do you enjoy working math problems?
 
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Samat03 said:
So I've done GCSE maths and physics both with A*, I had started A levels in the same subjects but then left everything when covid happened and havent done anything since so a good refresher would help about GCSE level and last thing i can remember doing in college was calculating the bending light through water if that helps
The A-level mathematics syllabus can be found here (you can also revise GCSE).

https://www.examsolutions.net

The other option for everything is the Khan Academy:

https://www.khanacademy.org/
 
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Dale said:
If it is just for fun then it probably would be important to understand your goals/desires. Do you want to do or learn something specific? Do you enjoy working math probl

Dale said:
If it is just for fun then it probably would be important to understand your goals/desires. Do you want to do or learn something specific? Do you enjoy working math problems?
Well my goal astrophysics or quantum physics, astrophysics has been my dream/passion since I was a kid but was never committed enough and now that I've left all studies and have been working for a few years I realise I miss it a lot and yes I really enjoy working math problems, It's always been my strong point, I'm a bit rusty now but I feel more committed now so I want to get back into it by myself at home but don't know where to start
 
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Samat03 said:
Well my goal astrophysics or quantum physics, astrophysics has been my dream/passion since I was a kid but was never committed enough and now that I've left all studies and have been working for a few years I realise I miss it a lot and yes I really enjoy working math problems, It's always been my strong point, I'm a bit rusty now but I feel more committed now so I want to get back into it by myself at home but don't know where to start
Once you get your maths and physics skills build up, you could aim for Andrew Liddle's Introduction to Modern Cosmology:

https://www.google.co.uk/books/edition/An_Introduction_to_Modern_Cosmology/6n64CAAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=0

That would be something to set your sights on.
 
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