Papers 1 (Core) and 3 (Extended) each contain 40 multiple choice questions worth 40 marks. You have 45 minutes.
Paper structure
Both papers test the entire syllabus in a single sitting. Questions are arranged roughly by topic order (motion first, then thermal, waves, electricity, nuclear/space). The later questions tend to be more demanding.
Types of question
Recall: “Which quantity is measured in newtons?” These are fast. Read all options before answering.
Calculation: “Calculate the resistance.” Work the calculation on paper, then find the matching answer. Do not rely on estimation for calculation questions.
Diagram interpretation: “What does the circuit diagram show?” Trace the circuit carefully. Identify components and connections.
Graph reading: “What is the speed at time t = 3 s?” Read the value from the graph carefully. Check the scale.
Application: “A student lifts a box. Which statement is correct?” Apply the physics principle to the scenario. Eliminate options that contradict the principle.
Strategy: Two passes
First pass (30 minutes): Go through all 40 questions in order. Answer every question you can within 45 seconds. Mark uncertain ones with a light pencil mark.
Second pass (15 minutes): Return to marked questions. Read more carefully, eliminate options, and make your best choice.
Answering technique
Use the answer sheet correctly. Fill in the circle completely. Erase cleanly if you change your answer. A stray mark or unclear erasure can cause the scanner to reject your answer.
Extended paper extra topics
Paper 3 includes questions on Extended content (momentum calculations, gas laws, transformer calculations, nuclear equations). If these topics are not familiar, skip them on the first pass and return to them.
No negative marking
Never leave a question blank. A guess has a 25% chance of being correct. Eliminate one option and the probability rises to 33%.
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