I always approached the problems knowing that it was possible to solve them and simply tried to connect the dots. I found that writing out all the information I was given—then used it to find all the new information I could find using equations (or if I could see far enough ahead, only what I knew I'd need). Now instead of looking directly for equations (which I do still do sometimes) I'll usually try and identify concepts at different parts and qualitatively analyze it before jumping into the math. Once I've figured it out conceptually (usually w/a diagram/picture/etc) I'll see which equations might help and then I just do the math.
I approach physics problems by trying to dissect them. I try to be very methodical and organized. After reading the problem, I list the given information, what I'm solving for and any known relationships or equations. I approach physics problems in a very qualitative respect. After reading a problem statement and identify what is to be solved for, I put down on paper the relative concepts for the problem. Usually diagrams with necessary parts labeled. Being able to draw such a “complete” diagram insures I have knowledge of the necessary information to solve the problem.
When I am trying to answer a physics question I first like to understand what the question is asking. Once I understand the question I try to find any equations that are helpful in solving the question. I have begun to at least mentally, and sometimes physically map out the problem. This is a new thing, and I have found that it really helps me to keep terms and ideas straight as I work thought the problem.
TABLE III.
Examples of comments from the same student at the beginning and end of the semester. These comments showed resiliency to maintaining a limiting strategy
Precourse reflection Postcourse reflection
Last semester I tried to recognize what type of problem was being asked, I would then look on the equation sheet to find the correct equation that had the same variables and the desired answer. If it was not directly given I would rearange the equations so that the given information could be used to find the desired answer. Most of the time I look for equations to solve the question with the information that is given. If that does not work then I try to combined equations to make the correct variables.