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Physics is really one of those subjects that can make a person feel very intimidating at first, especially when preparing for exams such as WAEC. The formulas, the diagrams, the problem-solving in the Subject can all feel overwhelming. But then, over time, I have personally developed a few hacks that makes my studying of Physics more simpler, manageable and easier for me to succeed and I’d like to share them here with y'all. It would be in a step-by-step process of 7 steps;

1. Always Break Down the WAEC Syllabus

This is actually the first thing I do while going through the WAEC Physics syllabus. The syllabus are like a roadmap—it tells you the exact topics that can come up in the exam. So, Instead of randomly reading, I will focus on the syllabus and tick off topics as soon as I complete them.
To illustrate: I had to divide Mechanics, Waves, and Electricity into separate weeks and then I reviewed each systematically.

2. Understand the topics you review, Don’t Just Memorize!

A lot of students today always fall into the trap of cramming formulas. Well, In Physics, that rarely works. I Really tried to cram formulas but it didn't actually help me and I dropped that format. Now, I try to understand why the formulas exist. For instance:
The formula F = ma isn’t just random—it connects force, mass, and acceleration directly.
So understanding how the formulas were derived would help to always remember the formula.
So, When I understand this, it becomes easier for me to apply the formula in problem-solving instead of memorizing blindly.

3. Practicing of Past Questions Religiously

Past WAEC questions are usually like silver and gold. I often noticed that many topics are being repeated year after year, just in different forms. So I make it a goal to solve at least 5–15 questions a day from different years.

For instance: Questions on Ohm’s Law, refraction of light, and projectile motion or even Speed and Velocity show up very often.

4. Always Create Short Notes or Flashcards

I do keep a small notebook around, where I would write key formulas and definitions in my own words. Before sleeping, I would also quickly scan through the notebook. Sometimes I would use flashcards for things like units of measurement.
For instance: Work (J), Power (W), Energy (J), etc.

5. Physics Diagrams Are Your Friends

Physics is mostly visual. I always practice drawing neat, well labeled diagrams for things like circuit diagrams, waveforms, and optical instruments. A clear diagram alone can sometimes fetch you marks even if your explanation isn’t that well perfect.

6. Participating in Group Study & Teaching Others

When I explain a concept like Newton’s Laws or simple harmonic motion to my friends, I realize that it sticks better in my own memory. Group study sessions also helps me to discover areas I do not understand well earlier.

7. The Exam Day Hacks!

During the Exam day, do well Read the instructions carefully—sometimes WAEC gives tricky options too.
Try Attempting the easier questions first to build confidence.
Then, Manage your time wisely—don’t spend as much as 30 minutes stuck on one tough question.

In Conclusion

You actually do not need to View Physics as a nightmare subject. But With the right strategy—syllabus breakdown, practice, diagrams, and consistency—it becomes more manageable. I’m still learning Physics every day, but these hacks have given me more confidence as I keep preparing for my WAEC Exam to come.

If you’re also preparing for WAEC or any other Physics exam, Do you have a Personal study hacks? I’d love to hear them in the comments too! 💬