10 Mar 6 Things That Make Physics Feared By Students
Physics has been notoriously known to be the subject that has mixed opinions from students. Some students absolutely love it, but for many, it feels like an uphill battle. If you fall in the latter category then you might understand what physics anxiety is all about. Staring blankly at a physics problem, wondering how on earth you’re supposed to solve it is not something that you only deal with.
So why does this subject seem so intimidating? Let’s get to the bottom of it
It Feels Too Abstract
Physics has concepts that are not conceivable ideas that we see before us. The concepts like black holes, quantum mechanics, and electromagnetism are things we don’t exactly see or experience in our everyday lives.
Trying to wrap your head around these abstract ideas can feel like solving a mystery with missing clues. Many students have a tough time understanding these abstract concepts.
💡 How to Overcome It:
Connect physics to real-world examples: Think about how Newton’s laws apply to everyday activities, such as car power or rope tension.
The Math Can Be Overwhelming
Mathematics is a part of this subject. So, if numbers and equations aren’t your best friends, physics can seem twice as hard.
The subject happens to rely heavily on algebra, calculus, and trigonometry. Having to deal with maths is a prime reason behind physics anxiety in students.
It can feel like an extra hurdle for students who already struggle with math.
📌 Example: To calculate force using F=maF = maF=ma, multiply mass and acceleration. It is difficult to apply the formula without a solid foundation in math.
💡 How to Overcome It:
- Strengthen your math skills: Regularly take time to go over algebra, trigonometry, and fundamental calculus ideas often.
- Break down complex problems: Break down equations one step at a time. For instance separate variables before you solve them to make the process easier.
Memorization Doesn’t Work Here
The power of memorization can benefit students for some subjects. You can learn the facts by heart and do just fine. But that’s not the case with physics.
It requires you to understand concepts and not just recall them. Relying only on formulas without grasping their meaning puts students in a tough spot.
Since this approach often leads to frustration when you have to apply them in different situations.
📌 Example: Knowing E=mc2E = mc^2E=mc2 by heart is useless if you are not aware of its significance.
💡 How to Overcome It:
- Prioritize understanding over memorizing: Understanding a formula’s origin and use is more important than memorizing it.
- Adapt concepts to different contexts:Solve problems that require the same formula in different contexts.
Problem-Solving Pressure
Physics problems can feel like puzzles with too many pieces. Solving them is one of the common struggles with physics.
Unlike straightforward questions in other subjects, physics questions often have multiple steps. Students are required to apply logical thinking.
Patience, and a bit of creativity is also what you need to deal with such questions. But having to apply them all under time constraints puts a significant pressure on students. Therefore, making it a fearful subject.
📌 Example: A kinematics problem may require calculating acceleration first, then using it to find displacement. This multi-step process demands both accuracy and patience.
💡 How to Overcome It:
- Use a structured approach: Identify the right formulas, write down the known values, and solve the problem step by step.
- Practice under timed conditions: Try to simulate exam scenarios in order to improve accuracy and speed.
Fear of Failure & Low Confidence
Getting low grades in physics can knock a student’s confidence. When this happens repeatedly, students start to believe they’re just not “good at physics”.
“If someone has an irrational fear and anxiety specifically about Physics, we can call that Physicsphobia. This type of phobia is a specific one, where the act of learning Physics itself becomes the source of fear.”
This type of mindset only increases their fear of physics and makes them reluctant to try.
💡 How to Overcome It:
- Adopt a growth mindset: Learn from mistakes rather than view them as failures.
- Seek support: Join study groups or get help from teachers or tutors. Learning collaboratively enhances confidence and clarifies difficult concepts.
It Takes Time & Patience
Physics isn’t something you master overnight. It takes practice, problem-solving, and sometimes, failing before understanding kicks in.
With other subjects competing for study time, students often feel they just don’t have enough hours to dedicate to physics.
💡 How to Overcome It:
- Set realistic goals: Divide your study sessions into manageable chunks to prevent burnout.
- Stay consistent: With regular practice, understanding and problem solving will gradually improve.
How to Make Physics Easier & Less Scary?
The good news? You can get over fear of this subject with the right guidance and approach. Here are some ways to make things easier while learning physics —
- Look for real-world connections – Remember that physics is in everything around us. Try linking concepts to things you see daily.
- Strengthen your math skills – You must make efforts to improve your math skills. A solid foundation in math makes physics much easier.
- Focus on understanding, not just memorization – Prioritise on the “why”. If a formula confuses you, break it down to see why it works.
- Use visual aids and experiments – When you see things in front of you, it gets easier to understand. It is why we recommend using simulations, videos, and hands-on learning to make complex ideas clearer.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help – Whether it’s from a teacher, a tutor, or a friend, getting support can make a huge difference.
Physics might seem tough at first, but you can turn things around with your efforts. If you are looking for help to get over your physics anxiety then join our classes at Miracle Learning Centre. We’re here to help you get success.