How to Solve Physics Problems

1)	Read through the entire question. You may find it helpful to read it out loud.
2)	Draw a picture of the problem.
3)	Determine exactly what you are being asked to solve. Often, the question is directly stated. However, if not directly stated, you will have to identify the question to be answered. Then write it down always making sure to specify the correct units you are expected to end up with.
4)	Write down everything that is given in the problem. Sometimes information must be assumed even when not directly stated (EX: a falling object is accelerated by gravity but gravity may not be actually referenced in the problem even though the value is needed to solve the problem). Further, be aware that you may be given extraneous information that is not required to solve the problem.
5)	Write down a formula that will lead to a solution. The secret to identifying equations/formulas that lead to solutions is to work backwards: pick a formula that has the variable you are trying to solve for i.e. the one you identified in step 3 above. You may need to combine one or more equations to accomplish your goal. Then fill in the other variables using the "givens" in the problem i.e. the ones identified in step 4 above. Remember, the formula that leads to a solution to the problem might be a combination of 2 or more equations found in the current chapter and might additionally require prior information to ultimately solve the problem (this is especially likely when solving physics problems).
6)	Call a friend to ask what she did to begin the problem
	Still can't start the problem?
7)	Ask Bernie... you will need to complete parts 1 through 5 and e-mail all your work for sections 3-5 ... complete the sections to the best of your ability... make educated guesses where necessary. Bernie is a problem solving guide, not an answer resource (if you have a scanner, consider scanning your work, including your drawing, and e-mail as an attachment to Bernie... scanning is never required but it can help sometimes with complex problems). Yes, the process is time-consuming ... but the skills you develop will not only help you in college but in life....seriously!