Here are suggestions (courtesy of Dr. Sivjee) on HOW to read a physics textbook.

I. Every student must (repeat must) read pertinent chapters of the textbook several times (at least three to four times).

II.  Reading the textbook involves the following:

    1. Have a pen and several sheets of paper available for reproducing the material (with the book closed).
    2. Read one section of each chapter at least twice.
    3. Close the book.
    4. Write down the physical principles and quantitative derivations on paper.
    5. Open the book and compare what you have written with the textbook material.
        If you have missed anything, go back to steps 2, 3, and 4.
    6. Repeat steps 2-5 for all sections of each chapter including solved problems.

III. You must read the pertinent sections of each chapter before class.

[Home] [Curriculum Vita] [Current Courses] [Research] [Schedule]

Last Modified: 14 February 2006.