How to Memorise Physics Equations for IGCSE

The IGCSE Physics 0625 syllabus requires you to recall and use a set of equations without a formula sheet. This guide covers practical methods for committing them to long-term memory.

Which equations you need to know

Cambridge provides a list of equations on the syllabus. Some are given in the exam paper (on a data sheet). Others must be memorised. Check your syllabus document for the current list: equations NOT on the data sheet must come from memory.

For the 2026 to 2028 syllabus, core equations you must memorise include:

• speed = distance / time
• acceleration = change in velocity / time
• force = mass x acceleration
• weight = mass x gravitational field strength
• momentum = mass x velocity
• work done = force x distance
• kinetic energy = 0.5 x mass x velocity squared
• gravitational potential energy = mass x g x height
• power = work done / time
• pressure = force / area
• density = mass / volume
• efficiency = useful output / total input

Extended candidates have additional equations to learn.

Method 1: flashcards with spaced repetition

Write each equation on a flashcard: the name on the front, the equation on the back. Test yourself daily.

Use a spaced repetition schedule:

1. Review all cards on day 1.
2. On day 2, test yourself. Cards you get right move to the “3-day” pile.
3. Cards you get wrong stay in the “daily” pile.
4. After the 3-day interval, correct cards move to a 7-day pile, then a 14-day pile.

This concentrates your effort on the equations you find hardest.

Method 2: write them out from memory

Every morning, write out all the equations from memory on a blank sheet. Check against the list. Highlight any you missed. Repeat until you can write the complete list without errors three days in a row.

Method 3: group by topic

Organise equations into topic groups (forces, energy, electricity, waves). Learn one group at a time. This creates mental associations that help you recall the right equation when you see a question on that topic.

Method 4: practice with calculation questions

The best way to lock equations into memory is to use them. Work through calculation questions from past papers. Every time you need an equation, recall it rather than looking it up. The combination of recall effort and context makes the memory stronger.

Common mistakes to avoid

1. Confusing similar equations (e.g., work done = Fd vs moment = Fd). Work done uses distance in the direction of the force. Moment uses perpendicular distance from the pivot.
2. Forgetting squared terms (KE = 0.5mv squared, not 0.5mv).
3. Mixing up pressure equations: p = F/A (solid surfaces) vs p = density x g x h (fluids).

How long it takes

With daily practice, you can reliably memorise all required equations in 2 to 3 weeks. Start early in your revision schedule so the equations are secure before you need them for timed practice.