The Student Room Group

What is the best way to study A level physics?

I'm currently a couple weeks away from mock a-levels and stressing out A BUNCH. I have tried multiple ways throughout my life as a physics student (including GCSE and before), always just scraping average marks until it came to the final exams where I was do a little above average (for reference I was averaging 5s in GCSE physics, then preceded to get a 7) so I am under no impression I can not do well enough, but I just can not put my finger on how to revise properly. In A levels, I'm currently predicted a B (so working on a C), but I really want an A.

Can anyone give me some good tips on the best ways to revise all the parts of physics, or whatever works particularly well for you? I struggle with both the word/theory questions and the mathematics and equations questions.

Thanks so much and I hope to hear from you!!
Original post
by number217
I'm currently a couple weeks away from mock a-levels and stressing out A BUNCH. I have tried multiple ways throughout my life as a physics student (including GCSE and before), always just scraping average marks until it came to the final exams where I was do a little above average (for reference I was averaging 5s in GCSE physics, then preceded to get a 7) so I am under no impression I can not do well enough, but I just can not put my finger on how to revise properly. In A levels, I'm currently predicted a B (so working on a C), but I really want an A.
Can anyone give me some good tips on the best ways to revise all the parts of physics, or whatever works particularly well for you? I struggle with both the word/theory questions and the mathematics and equations questions.
Thanks so much and I hope to hear from you!!

How about past papers?
I didnt do a-level physics myself, but i found that in general, past papers were useful.

Reply 2

Here are some tips that worked for me:

Understand the Topic

This might seem obvious, but really take the time to understand the material. Start by reading your textbook, but I found websites like tutorpacks.com especially helpful for Physics. Use the information you find to make concise notes—handwritten on one or two pages with a pencil. Writing things out by hand really helps with memory.

Use YouTube

If you’re stuck on a concept, YouTube is a lifesaver. Channels like Khan Academy and Science Shorts are great for breaking things down, but there are plenty of others out there too.

Practice by Topic

Once you’ve got the basics down, practice questions by topic. Websites like PMT have topic-specific questions that are super useful for targeted practice.

Update Your Notes

After answering practice questions, always check the mark scheme. Add key points to your notes, like definitions or how to approach 6-mark questions. This helps you focus on what examiners are looking for.

Past Papers

Save the latest spec past papers for your final exams or mocks. In the meantime, work through older (legacy) papers. Websites like tutorpacks.com have a lot to get you started. About 2–3 months before your exams, shift your focus to the newer past papers.

Stay Consistent

Consistency is everything. Keep at it, and you’ll see results. I started with a D in Year 12 and managed to work my way up to an A*.

Good luck!

Reply 3

Original post
by KnowledgeKnight
Here are some tips that worked for me:
Understand the Topic
This might seem obvious, but really take the time to understand the material. Start by reading your textbook, but I found websites like tutorpacks.com especially helpful for Physics. Use the information you find to make concise notes—handwritten on one or two pages with a pencil. Writing things out by hand really helps with memory.
Use YouTube
If you’re stuck on a concept, YouTube is a lifesaver. Channels like Khan Academy and Science Shorts are great for breaking things down, but there are plenty of others out there too.
Practice by Topic
Once you’ve got the basics down, practice questions by topic. Websites like PMT have topic-specific questions that are super useful for targeted practice.
Update Your Notes
After answering practice questions, always check the mark scheme. Add key points to your notes, like definitions or how to approach 6-mark questions. This helps you focus on what examiners are looking for.
Past Papers
Save the latest spec past papers for your final exams or mocks. In the meantime, work through older (legacy) papers. Websites like tutorpacks.com have a lot to get you started. About 2–3 months before your exams, shift your focus to the newer past papers.
Stay Consistent
Consistency is everything. Keep at it, and you’ll see results. I started with a D in Year 12 and managed to work my way up to an A*.
Good luck!

How difficult is it to obtain an A/A*? I take physics but i dont take maths A-level. I started off at a U grade in the beginning of year 12 but now my predicted grades are Bs, (im working at Cs). I find it really hard to practice alevel physics, especially because i get stuck on every question i attempt answering. According to my teacher, i know the topics, i just don't know how to approach exam questions. i tend to overcomplicate it. and now with only a few months left before my actual alevels im scared that I won't be able to get an A. What do you suggest I do?

Reply 4

Original post
by yaz2007
How difficult is it to obtain an A/A*? I take physics but i dont take maths A-level. I started off at a U grade in the beginning of year 12 but now my predicted grades are Bs, (im working at Cs). I find it really hard to practice alevel physics, especially because i get stuck on every question i attempt answering. According to my teacher, i know the topics, i just don't know how to approach exam questions. i tend to overcomplicate it. and now with only a few months left before my actual alevels im scared that I won't be able to get an A. What do you suggest I do?


Getting an A/A* in Physics is difficult but totally doable. Since your teacher says you know the topics, shift your attention to exam technique. Spend time practicing past papers and going through mark schemes—they’ll show you exactly how to structure answers and stop you from overcomplicating things. Take questions step by step: figure out what’s being asked, what formula or concept applies, and keep your answers clear and to the point.

Start by tackling your weaker areas and use resources like tutorpacks.com (great for worked examples) or Khan Academy to simplify tricky concepts. Make a revision plan for the next few months, alternating between learning content, practicing questions, and reviewing mistakes. Consistency is key, so try to stick to daily practice. You’ve already come so far—keep going.

Quick Reply

How The Student Room is moderated

To keep The Student Room safe for everyone, we moderate posts that are added to the site.