What can I use to teach myself physics?

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SUMMARY

To effectively teach yourself physics, especially at a level beyond high school, it is recommended to use a calculus-based university introductory physics textbook. Notable examples include "Fundamentals of Physics" by Halliday, Resnick, and Walker (ISBN: 978-0470469118) and "Physics" by David Halliday (ISBN: 978-0716789644). These texts are suitable for individuals with a basic understanding of calculus, specifically simple derivatives and integrals. Utilizing secondary resources like the Feynman Lectures can enhance understanding but should not replace primary textbooks.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic calculus knowledge, including simple derivatives and integrals.
  • Familiarity with university-level physics concepts.
  • Access to online educational resources, such as Khan Academy.
  • Ability to source and evaluate textbooks, including older editions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research and select a suitable calculus-based introductory physics textbook.
  • Explore additional online resources and lectures, such as the Feynman Lectures on Physics.
  • Practice problem-solving using exercises from the selected textbook.
  • Join online forums or study groups focused on self-learning physics.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for high school students, self-learners, and anyone seeking to advance their understanding of physics beyond standard curriculum offerings.

guitarphysics
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I'm 15 years old and want to go faster than my high school class. I'm teaching myself calculus from a couple of different books as well as videos from khanacademy. I'm also going to use the Feynman lectures on physics, but apparently those are better as secondary sources. What do you recommend I use as a primary textbook?
Thanks
 
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If you know basic calculus (simple derivatives and integrals), you can probably handle a calculus-based university intro physics textbook. Examples:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/0470469110/?tag=pfamazon01-20

https://www.amazon.com/dp/0716789647/?tag=pfamazon01-20

There are others. They all cover pretty much the same material. You can save money by buying a used copy of an older edition. Changes between editions are usually pretty small, just enough to force students taking a course to buy the latest edition so everyone is "on the same page."
 
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