Is this a good idea or...

[goddammitphysics]

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So, I usually do not read books for science classes because they absolutely do not help me at all and I can often manage without them.

However, I am taking physics this summer and it is definitely my least favorite subject, so I need a good book to learn from in addition to the lectures.

As stated above, I usually stray away from the recommended course books because they are just poorly written and actually confuse me even more.

Are there any good recommendations for physics books? I was thinking about reading the Berkeley Review physics book. Would this be a good idea? I like the style of writing of the Berkeley Review prep books. However, the table of contents do not seem to match up nicely with what I am to learn this summer (image attached).

 

[karayaa]

I was thinking about reading the Berkeley Review physics book. Would this be a good idea?

Yes, because they explain concepts well - but TBR is probably abbreviated compared to a normal textbook.

I like the style of writing of the Berkeley Review prep books. However, the table of contents do not seem to match up nicely with what I am to learn this summer (image attached).

How is this a problem? Just read what's relevant.

I enjoyed the Giancoli books when I took it.

Or maybe try a MOOC or Khan Academy or Hyperphysics?

 

[Low Flow]

I wouldn't suggest a review book when attempting to learn material the first time around. Those kinds of books usually give brief descriptions tailored to someone who knows what they're reading.

I'm one who loves to read the science books for classes, but physics was actually one of the few I didn't read. Physics is math based, and is really just learning equations and how to apply them, with a few conceptual understandings tossed in the mix. I would really suggest going with the suggest text for the course if you really feel like reading one.

 

[goddammitphysics]

Which Giancoli textbook specifically? 🙂

 

[karayaa]

Whatever's current/cheapest, depending on your criteria. I don't think they change much, but I used the 4th ed.

 

[Heday]

I wouldn't suggest a review book when attempting to learn material the first time around. Those kinds of books usually give brief descriptions tailored to someone who knows what they're reading.

I'm one who loves to read the science books for classes, but physics was actually one of the few I didn't read. Physics is math based, and is really just learning equations and how to apply them, with a few conceptual understandings tossed in the mix. I would really suggest going with the suggest text for the course if you really feel like reading one.

I don't know man, while I don't read books for the majority of my classes, any book can be a helpful book. Some instructors aren't the best, and the textbook/review book may present material in a way that is more easily understood by OP. I agree a review book like TBR is not the best way when attempting to learn the material the first time (plus you don't want to exhaust your practice questions), but there are definitely "short cuts" and advice that is useful. If OP can practice these short cuts while he's learning, it could do wonders for his speed during his actual MCAT.

I would equate concepts to being what equations are derived from. Understanding the motion of mechanics, or how two seemingly different topics are inter-related will do OP good (eg the relationship between kinematics and E&M). Building a solid foundation will require attending lectures, some reading (maybe a bunch of different sources), practicing problems, just thinking about what you've learned, observing in the real-world, teaching other people these concepts/information, watching chad's videos or khan academy, etc. You gotta immerse yourself sometimes to make these types of things intuitive. Obviously every person is different so YMMV and OP may be fine with just reading and practicing. The most important thing is don't study to just ace your tests, but study so that answering the conceptual questions is equivalent to solving 2+2.

 

[allantois]

I wouldn't use a review book for a lecture course just like I wouldn't use a lecture book to study for MCAT. However, I would google different handouts on the net/ watch Khan Academy videos.

 

[lmn]

Review books are for review, not first time learning. They assume you have already learned it and thus don't fully explain concepts and further use shortcuts and assumptions that are valid for the MCAT, but likely are not kosher for your actual class. Further, the review books cover MCAT material, not everything you would cover during a full year of physics and thus the simplified problem types and areas skipped over would thus likely not line up well with what you're doing in your class or what and how you are tested.

 

[deanthedream17]

normally i would agree that review books aren't good the first time around, but TBR physical sciences are great and thorough and you can def learn physics well if you use it and maybe supplement it with textbook problems.