1. There's no time like class time.
Always be prepared for class, because that class only happens once. Every second of your time in that class period is valuable and shouldn't be wasted because you're unprepared. You get out of class what you put in it, and for this reason, if you want to be successful, you have to want to be successful each day in class.
2. Material is meant to be read, not just seen.
When notes are taken, or information is written on the website, pay attention to it! Don't just look at it as if it has no purpose. Everything in physics has a purpose and if you read everything that is presented, everything will be made a lot easier for you. Reading will lead to understanding, understanding will lead to learning, and learning leads to success.
3. Assign yourself to your assignments.
Always be prudent with your assignments. Don't just complete them as you go on, do them to learn and progress in the class.Use resources given to you to your advantage. It's up to you to make sure that everything gets done in an orderly fashion and that you understand all of it.
4. Solve your problems.
Everything in physics is based around problems, just as every other subject. Except in physics, you have so many paths that lead to solutions, you just have to become proficient in all of them. You must master all the technology one might use in solving problems. One must master all of the "lingo" in the class. Also, your problem solving skills are crucial. Physics is math oriented which means it's very logical. You have to step-by-step, use a logical path to find each solution. Also, graphing is a HUGE part of physics. In your graphs, you have to use your ruler, calculate the correct slope, and overall, DON'T EVER USE NAKED NUMBERS! Graphs can be your best friend or your worst enemy depending on how much attention you give them. Most importantly, you have to know enough to be able to check your answers to make sure you don't make a mistake.
5. Overall success
On the whole, physics is about organization, preparedness, and focus. If you possess these three things, success in physics becomes within arm's reach. Everything you need to succeed is available and all around you, however, it is up to you to use them to your advantage.
