Struggling with Studying Physics? Here's How to Improve Your Approach

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the challenges of studying physics, particularly focusing on the thought processes and approaches needed to tackle problems effectively. Participants share their experiences and suggest methods for improving understanding and problem-solving skills in physics.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses doubt about their suitability for physics, feeling they lack the necessary thinking processes.
  • Another participant suggests identifying specific courses or topics that are problematic and encourages seeking help from peers or tutors.
  • A different viewpoint emphasizes that understanding math and physics is a gradual process, comparing it to learning to appreciate complex literature.
  • There is a suggestion that the participant should focus on improving their calculus skills, which are deemed important for physics and other fields.
  • One participant questions the original poster about their specific difficulties and suggests that enjoyment of the subject is crucial for success.
  • Advice is given to take notes, summarize concepts in one's own words, and explain formulas to oneself to enhance understanding.
  • There is a query about the participant's enjoyment of math and their math skills, indicating its relevance to their physics studies.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of seeking help and improving study techniques, but there is no consensus on the best approach or the specific challenges faced by the original poster.

Contextual Notes

The discussion reflects a range of personal experiences and suggestions, with no clear resolution on the most effective study methods or the participant's suitability for physics.

Who May Find This Useful

Students struggling with physics or considering their approach to studying STEM subjects may find the shared experiences and suggestions relevant.

silenzer
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I'm on my second year in physics and I've begun to think I've chosen the wrong subject. I feel like I simply don't possesses the thinking processes of a physicist. Is there a specific way I should approach problems? A specific way I should think about concepts in my mind? I'm on the verge of giving up, really. :(
 
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Is there any particular course that you're having trouble with? One specific topic that, in your opinion, you aren't approaching problems in the right way? Are there others in your class that you can speak to, to try and learn how to approach problems better or, if not, can you approach a tutor? You shouldn't give up without exhausting avenues that might help you.
 
Math and physics is an acquired knowledge. It's not exactly a common sense thing. Learning curve is very steep. It's like everyone can understand and laugh at a joke. But it require time to learn how to appreciate Shakespeare.

I am not saying whether you have it or not, I just say you need more time, get a tutor, ask specific question in this forum and see. Stick it out for another year, concentrate on more calculus as it is important for other fields. UC Berkley require Cal I and cal II even for business major...for good reason.
 
I feel like I simply don't possesses the thinking processes of a physicist.

What makes you think so? Can you give examples? It's more important that you enjoy the work you you do.

I strongly suspect this is not clear statement about what is troubling you.
Do you find you think you know the 'formulas and concepts' but have trouble deciding how to attack problems? Or are the formulas and concepts not clear...

A specific way I should think about concepts in my mind?

yes, personally. Do you make notes when reading new concepts?? key points?

I always found it useful to 'explain concepts' to my, in my own words...best if you write those down as summary notes. You can also try explaining formulas to yourself in words. What does each formula concept mean...how does it apply...and relate to other formulas/ concepts...
I also found it helpful to tutor a couple of friends...

Do you enjoy math and have the math skills for your physics??
 

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