Mixt Academy specialists are going to pen the blog, but first, they want to share this: “Nothing is HARD unless you give up.”
If you are thinking about studying A Level Physics, you might be wondering how difficult it really is. Physics does have a reputation for being hard, but it can be challenging. It’s absolutely possible to do well with the right effort and approach.
Want friendly tutoring that helps you build a strong understanding of A Level Physics? You can easily understand A Level Physics with the help of Mixt Academy’s online tutors. |
A-Level Physics is such a complex subject for schoolers because of the severe transition from GCSE, which means gaining a full-fledged conceptual understanding. Mastering the problem-solving skills and the whole mathematical applications (algebra, trigonometry, etc).
In general, they are struggling with abstract ideas like fields and quantum mechanics and, at the same time, encountering complicated, multi-topic questions that require not only an integrated knowledge of the subject and sound reasoning that is even beyond the memorisation of formulas but also the ability to communicate it effectively.
The topics are so interconnected that the student must always be in touch with the learning process, and particularly exam practice is also an indispensable factor, adding to the challenge. Besides being theoretically good at data analysis, one needs to be practically good at it too.
The shift from GCSE to A Level Physics is so different that the content is more detailed, the speed is quicker, and self-study is an absolute requirement. The focus is on problem-solving, derivations, and unfamiliar questions, along with a minimum of 12 practicals, which include data analysis, uncertainties, and equipment.
Applying knowledge to unfamiliar situations accounts for about 60–70% of the A Level Physics examination marks. Just memorising facts is not going to be enough; the students will have to use a mix of equations, logic, and multi-step reasoning.
Electric fields, wave behaviour, and quantum physics are among the most difficult to learn since they are purely theoretical. Research indicates that these topics score the lowest in students’ assessments due to their nature of being hard to understand and requiring a strong understanding of concepts.
Real-world contexts (medical imaging or engineering, for example) frequently provide the setting for many exam questions. Students often miss points because they do not clarify how the A Level physics formulas apply to the actual situations of the trials.
A clear structure and proper use of symbols, units, and written explanations are all critical. Examiners say that poor examination technique can take away 10-20% of marks even when the understanding is there.
Generally, students at the top end will do a minimum of several hours of independent study per week. The more you practise, the faster you will solve the problems, and the more accurate and confident you will be.
With the proper instruction, continuous practice, and support, A-Level Physics will be a lot easier and more manageable.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your demo class today with Mixt Academy online tutors and receive professional assistance in your physics studies.
Simplifying the A Level Physics syllabus for this year requires a shift away from broad memorisation toward focused mastery of key concepts and examiner expectations. By studying with intent and structure, the large volume of content can be broken down into manageable, high-impact sections. The strategies below are particularly effective:
Physics and Chemistry are still very close in terms of students’ performance.
Overall, there is very little to separate Physics and Chemistry when looking at grades. Both subjects are widely regarded as demanding, with heavy content loads and regular exam practice required.
Biology results in 2024 followed a similar overall pattern but differed slightly in top grades.
Biology is seen as more accessible because it involves less maths, but it requires more memorisation, writing, and exam technique, making its workload comparable to physics.
Physics and maths are often taken together, and many students report that studying maths alongside physics makes physics easier to manage. Mathematics continues to stand out in terms of high grades.
Strong mathematical skills allow students to focus more on understanding physical concepts rather than struggling with calculations.
A strong knowledge of math is essential for success in A Level Physics, as calculations are central to almost every topic.
While A Level maths is not compulsory for A Level Physics, it is strongly advised to study maths alongside physics makes calculations easier to handle and helps build confidence when tackling exam questions.
If you are not taking A Level Maths, it is essential to:
A Level Physics assessments evaluate mathematical ability as well as understanding of physical concepts.
Exam questions commonly involve:
Rather than being taught as a separate element, mathematics is fully integrated into every physics topic, making it a fundamental part of the subject.
Looking at recent results helps to give a clearer picture of how demanding A Level Physics grade boundaries really are.
In the latest report from recent years, A Level Physics continued to show strong outcomes:
In total, around 95% of students achieved at least a grade E, which shows that although physics is widely regarded as challenging, the vast majority of students can pass the subject.
When compared with other sciences, physics performs well overall.
These figures do not necessarily suggest that physics is an easier subject than biology or chemistry. Instead, they reflect several underlying factors:
A Level Physics is challenging, but it can be advantageous for students who enjoy exploring the mechanics of the universe. While it’s not the right fit for everyone, it’s an excellent choice if the following describes you.
You may thrive in A Level Physics if you:
Taking Physics at A Level offers a range of academic and career benefits:
Pairing Physics with complementary subjects can enhance your A Level profile and future opportunities:
A Level Physics can seem challenging at first, but with the right approach, it becomes much more manageable. Focus on understanding each concept, practise applying A Level Physics equations and review the course content regularly using structured A Level Physics revision. Breaking the syllabus into smaller sections, working through problems step by step, and using past papers or a guided A Level Physics topics list syllabus, ensures you stay on track.
Remember, consistent effort, asking questions, and seeking help from A Level Physics tutors when needed make even the most complex topics easier. With patience and the right strategy, you can achieve strong grades and gain confidence in every area of A Level Physics.
Specific topics or sections are often more difficult for students, making them feel confused or needing extra time to understand fully.
With focused practice and guidance, even these topics become manageable. Mixt Academy online tutoring can help break them down step by step.
Several concepts are easier for students to grasp, allowing them to build confidence and understand the material without much difficulty.
Even so, building confidence early can make the harder topics less intimidating.
It depends on your current level and target grade, but most successful A Level Physics students spend at least 3–4 hours per week outside of lessons.
A good approach is:
Closer to exams, students often increase this to 6–8 hours per week for intensive revision. Mixt Academy’s online tutoring can provide structured sessions and practice to make your study time more efficient.
Absolutely not! Physics develops analytical thinking and problem-solving skills that are valued across many fields:
Physics isn’t only about performing experiments in labs; it’s about developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and understanding how the world works.
Platforms like Mixt Academy provide tailored guidance that complements your school lessons:
With the right support, even the most challenging topics can become manageable.
Most A Level Physics topics list syllabus (CIE, AQA, Edexcel, OCR) cover the following core areas:
Mixt Academy is a global online tutoring platform that connects students with expert IGCSE, GCSE, and A-Level tutors for one-to-one learning. With flexible scheduling, personalized lesson plans, and experienced teachers from top curricula, Mixt Academy helps students strengthen concepts, improve exam skills, and achieve higher grades with confidence.
Top-rated ★★★★★ Nursery Schools in Deira, Dubai Find Top 9…
Top-rated ★★★★★ Top 4 Schools in Dubai Land Find Top…
Enter the Immerse Education Essay Competition Today! Do you possess…
Hire an Expert Tutor from Just 15$/hr
