Study Tips for Calc-Based Physics Test

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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on study strategies for preparing for a calculus-based physics test, specifically covering topics such as circuits, capacitors, resistors, current, and power. Participants share their experiences and suggest resources to aid in problem-solving and preparation.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty in solving problems from their textbook due to a lack of solutions for reference and seeks advice on preparation methods.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of working through problems independently, questioning how one would handle similar situations during a test without external help.
  • A suggestion is made to use the book "3000 Solved Problems in Physics" as a study aid, which one participant finds helpful.
  • There is a counterpoint raised regarding the reliance on others' solutions, with a participant arguing that it fosters dependence and may hinder problem-solving skills.
  • Another participant mentions the availability of solution manuals for certain textbooks, suggesting they could be beneficial for students who struggle with problem-solving.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the value of using others' solutions for learning. Some advocate for independent problem-solving, while others suggest that having access to solutions can be beneficial for understanding.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not reached a consensus on the best approach to studying or the role of solution resources in learning physics problems.

Who May Find This Useful

Students preparing for calculus-based physics exams, particularly those struggling with problem-solving techniques and seeking study resources.

2slowtogofast
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I have a calc based physics ll test coming up. its going to be on circuits with capacitor resistors current power and things like that. what would be the best way to prepare for this. i find it very hard to do problems out of my book because if i get stuck on step i can't get help b/c i don't have the solutions. maybe there is a site with worked out problems or somthing. any advice is apreciated.
 
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2slowtogofast said:
i find it very hard to do problems out of my book because if i get stuck on step i can't get help b/c i don't have the solutions

And when the same thing happens on a test, how do you plan to deal with it?

There's no substitute for working problems. Certainly not looking at other people's solutions!
 
Pick up 3000 Solved Problems in Physics. I find it to be a very good study aid.
 
Vanadium 50 said:
And when the same thing happens on a test, how do you plan to deal with it?

There's no substitute for working problems. Certainly not looking at other people's solutions!

I don't think that is a very good answer. We all get stuck on problems sometimes, I don't care who you are.

Anyway, one person already mentioned a decent book. There are others out there like it. University Physics has a solution manual for its text if you use that text, if not, pick up an old copy dirt cheap.
 
Obviously, I disagree. Relying on other people's solutions builds a dependence on those solutions. Just look at how many questions here start "I understand the material - I just can't work any problems".
 

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