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Boost your HSC Physics marks by making the most of the HSC Physics formula sheet. Here are 5 essential tips to use it smarter and faster.
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The HSC Physics formula sheet is one of your most powerful allies during Year 12. It covers all the equations you’ll need for every core topic: motion, forces, waves, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, quantum mechanics, relativity, and nuclear physics.
You don’t have to waste valuable brain space memorising formulas. Even Physicists don’t memorise them; they look up formulas when needed and save their thinking for solving new problems!
But you need to know how to use the formulas effectively and efficiently. Think of the formula sheet like a toolbox: If you don’t know which tool to pick or how to use it properly, you could easily make mistakes.
Here are five expert tips to help you make the most of your formula sheet during the HSC Physics exam.
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The formula sheet includes a lot of information, but there are no labels explaining what the symbols mean or what each formula is for! You might have added notes while studying, but you won’t have access to them in the exam. You need to know what each formula calculates, which variables it uses, and where it fits in the syllabus.
Test yourself:
\(B = \frac{\mu_0 I}{2 \pi r}\) versus \(B = \frac{\mu_0 N I}{L}\)?
\(U = mgh\) and when to use \(U = -\frac{GMm}{r}\)?
Tip: Some symbols, like \(\lambda\), can mean different things in different equations (e.g., wavelength or decay constant). Always check the context before plugging in numbers.
Tip: Print a blank copy of the formula sheet and annotate it. Write:
For extra practice, create flashcards with one side showing a formula and the other side explaining its application.
Many Year 12 HSC questions require you to combine multiple formulas to reach the final answer. Recognising how formulas connect will save time and reduce errors.
For example, when solving a projectile motion question:
Other examples of formula combinations:
Tip: Practise “show” questions to get a feel for which equations can be combined.
Many questions in the exam will ask you to solve for variables that aren’t already isolated. Make a habit of rearranging equations before plugging in numbers. This will reduce making mistakes or messy calculations.
Examples:
Given power (P) and resistance (R), solve for current (I):
Start with \(P = I^2 R\).
Rearrange to \(I = \sqrt{\frac{P}{R}}\).
In kinematics, given initial velocity (u), final velocity (v), and displacement (s), solve for acceleration (a):
Start with \(v^2 = u^2 + 2as\).
Rearrange to \(a = \frac{v^2 – u^2}{2s}\).
Tip: Get comfortable with algebra. Rearrange first, then substitute numbers.
Your data sheet lists constants like:
Speed of light \(c = 3.00 \times 10^8\) m/s
Planck’s constant \(h = 6.63 \times 10^{-34}\) Js
Gravitational constant \(G = 6.67 \times 10^{-11}\) Nm²/kg²
But in some questions, these won’t be handed to you; you’re expected to know when to reach for them!
Examples:
Given a radio wave’s wavelength, you’ll need to remember that its speed equals the speed of light to use the wave equation.
\(v = f\lambda\).
When calculating the gravitational potential energy of an orbiting satellite, don’t forget to add the satellite’s altitude to Earth’s radius in:
\(U = -\frac{GMm}{r}\).
Tip: While revising, make a list next to your data sheet of past questions where you’ve used each constant. This helps you spot when they’re needed.
Many students lose marks in the HSC Physics exams because they mismatch units. Both sides of an equation must have matching units. Using SI units makes life easier and ensures your answers are correct.
Remember:
Tip: When substituting values, write units for every variable. It forces you to double-check conversions and prevents careless mistakes.
What are the other common Physics exam errors, you ask? Read our guide on 6 Common Mistakes HSC Physics Students Make in Exams to learn what to watch out for and how to fix your mistakes.
Practise using the formula sheet under timed conditions before your exam. That way, it feels natural, and you’ll stay calm and focused on the day. Try this practice paper.
Put your knowledge to the test with our Year 11 Physics yearly exam paper. 
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The formula sheet is your secret weapon, but only if you know how to use it well. You can solve problems faster and more accurately, if you;
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Written by Matrix Science Team
The Matrix Science Team are teachers and tutors with a passion for Science and a dedication to seeing Matrix Students achieving their academic goals.
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