The top physics students don’t actually “memorize” formulas. Here are four techniques to help you master your formula sheet and stop blanking out during tests.
1. Use Units!
One of the easiest ways to remember a formula is to look at the units. If you know that Velocity is measured in meters per second (m/s), the formula must involve a distance (meters) divided by time (seconds).
- The Trick: If you forget a formula, look at the units required for the answer. They will often tell you exactly what math you need to do.
2. Conceptual Logic
Every physics formula is just a sentence written in math. Instead of memorizing letters, learn what they represent.
- Example: \(F=ma\) (Newton’s Second Law).
- The Story: “The harder I push something (Force), the faster it will speed up (Acceleration), but the heavier it is (Mass), the harder it is to get it moving.”
- Relationships: Understand how to apply directly proportional and inversely proportional relationships.
3. Formula Derivation
Most complex formulas are just smaller formulas put together. If you know the basic definitions, you can “build” the harder ones.
Why this works: You only have to memorize 3 or 4 “root” equations. The rest you can figure out on the fly. This reduces your mental load and helps you apply physics logic directly.
To see how these connections work, you can get a free PDF of base vs. derived formulas with full explanations. This helps you stop memorizing and start using logic.
4. Practice with Purpose
You cannot memorize physics by just reading a list. You need “active recall.”
The Method: Solve a problem, but keep your formula sheet in another room. Try to recall the formula first. If you can’t, go look at it, then come back and write it down from memory. Same goes for core concepts and principles.
That’s it. Physics formulas aren’t something you memorize — they’re something you understand. When you use units, logic, derivations, and active recall, formulas stop being random symbols and start feeling inevitable.
This might be a lot. So if you’re just getting started and want a clear, structured path, we built an 8-week program that teaches physics from the ground up — no notes, no memorization, just real understanding and problem solving strategies.
