Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: A 50 kg bag. Weight on Earth? (g = 9.8)
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 50 kg · 9.8. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: 8). Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: 8). Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
Write W = 490 N with empty letters. Cross out every letter that already has a number. Calculate the letter that is still standing — that gives 8).
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
W = mg. Mass stays 50 kg everywhere; weight changes with g.
2. What do we already know?
m=50 kg. g=9.8 m·s⁻². Unknown: W.
3. Which method — and why this one?
W = mg. Mass stays 50 kg everywhere; weight changes with g.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 50 kg · 9.8. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: 8). Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: 8). Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: Write W = 490 N with empty letters. Cross out every letter that already has a number. Calculate the letter that is still standing — that gives 8).
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
m=50 kg. g=9.8 m·s⁻². Unknown: W.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
W = mg. Mass stays 50 kg everywhere; weight changes with g.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Write W = mg
W=50×9.8=490 N.
W=490 N
Why this step: Write the formula before numbers. The memo awards a method mark even if a digit slips later.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
490 N
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
490 N
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Formula: W=490 N
Answer: 490 N
6. Check it like a marker
On the moon W would be about 80 N; m is still 50 kg.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
Writing 50 N treats mass as weight.
1.2 · 10 Marks
v = 20 ms for 8 s, from rest, constant a. Distance?
Notes: u = 0. v = 20 ms. t = 8 s. Constant a. Unknown: Δx.
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: v = 20 ms for 8 s, from rest, constant a. Distance?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 20 ms · 8 s. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Distance. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Distance. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
Write v_avg = 10 ms with empty letters. Cross out every letter that already has a number. Calculate the letter that is still standing — that gives Distance.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Average speed is (u+v)2 when a is constant. Then Δx = v_avg × t.
2. What do we already know?
u = 0. v = 20 ms. t = 8 s. Constant a. Unknown: Δx.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Average speed is (u+v)2 when a is constant. Then Δx = v_avg × t.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 05
Average speed
(0 + 20)2=10 ms.
vavg=10 ms
Why this step: One job per line so you can find a slip, and so a marker can follow the marks.
02 / 05
Distance
Δx = 10 × 8 = 80 m. Or Δx = (u+v)t2=80 m.
Δx=80 m
Why this step: Write the formula before numbers. The memo awards a method mark even if a digit slips later.
03 / 05
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
04 / 05
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
80 m
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
05 / 05
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
80 m
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Formula: vavg=10 ms
Answer: 80 m
6. Check it like a marker
a=(v−u)t=208=2.5. Δx=ut+½at²=0+½(2.5)64=80 m.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
v × t = 160 m pretends the bag already moved at 20 ms the whole time. It sped up from rest.
2.1 · 10 Marks
Density of 2 kg of maize in 0.004 m³
Notes: m=2 kg. V=0.004 m³. Unknown: ρ.
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Density of 2 kg of maize in 0.004 m³
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 2 kg · 0.004 m³. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: 004 m³. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: 004 m³. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
Write ρ = mV with empty letters. Cross out every letter that already has a number. Calculate the letter that is still standing — that gives 004 m³.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
ρ=mV. Mass over volume.
2. What do we already know?
m=2 kg. V=0.004 m³. Unknown: ρ.
3. Which method — and why this one?
ρ=mV. Mass over volume.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 2 kg · 0.004 m³. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: 004 m³. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: 004 m³. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: Write ρ = mV with empty letters. Cross out every letter that already has a number. Calculate the letter that is still standing — that gives 004 m³.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
m=2 kg. V=0.004 m³. Unknown: ρ.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
ρ=mV. Mass over volume.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Write density
ρ=20.004=500 kg·m⁻³.
ρ=mV
Why this step: Write the formula before numbers. The memo awards a method mark even if a digit slips later.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
500 kgm³
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
500 kgm³
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Formula: ρ=mV
Answer: 500 kgm³
6. Check it like a marker
500×0.004=2 kg. Recovers mass.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
Do not multiply m × V.
2.2 · 12 Marks
Series: 2 Ω and 6 Ω on 8 V. Current?
Notes: R1=2 Ω, R2=6 Ω series. V=8 V.
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Series: 2 Ω and 6 Ω on 8 V. Current?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 2 Ω · 6 Ω · 8 V. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Current. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Current. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
Write R = 8 Ω with empty letters. Cross out every letter that already has a number. Calculate the letter that is still standing — that gives Current.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Series: add resistances, then I = VRtotal.
2. What do we already know?
R1=2 Ω, R2=6 Ω series. V=8 V.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Series: add resistances, then I = VRtotal.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 05
Add series
R=2+6=8 Ω.
R=8 Ω
Why this step: One job per line so you can find a slip, and so a marker can follow the marks.
02 / 05
Ohm
I=88=1 A.
I=1 A
Why this step: Write the formula before numbers. The memo awards a method mark even if a digit slips later.
03 / 05
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
04 / 05
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
1 A
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
05 / 05
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
1 A
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Formula: R=8 Ω
Answer: 1 A
6. Check it like a marker
Voltage split: 2 V on 2 Ω and 6 V on 6 Ω. Adds to 8 V.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
Using only 2 Ω gives 4 A. Both resistors are in the loop.
5 · 3 Marks · Mechanical energy
A 3 kg mass at 4 m·s⁻¹ has kinetic energy
Mechanical energy
Formulas
Ek=½ m v²
Kinetic energy
Ep=m g h
Gravitational potential
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: A 3 kg mass at 4 m·s⁻¹ has kinetic energy
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Ek=½mv²=½×3×16=24 J.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 3 kg · 4 m·s⁻¹. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Ek=½mv²=½×3×16=24 J.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 07
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 07
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 3 kg · 4 m·s⁻¹. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
03 / 07
Step C — Name the method in words
Ek=½mv²=½×3×16=24 J.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
04 / 07
Working
Ek=½mv²=½×3×16=24 J.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
05 / 07
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
06 / 07
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
24 J
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
07 / 07
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
24 J
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 24 J
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
6 · 2 Marks
f=25 Hz, λ=2 m. v=
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: f=25 Hz, λ=2 m. v=
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 25 Hz · 2 m. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: v=. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: v=. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 50 m·s⁻¹. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get v=.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
50 m·s⁻¹
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 25 Hz · 2 m. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
50 m·s⁻¹
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 25 Hz · 2 m. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: v=. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: v=. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: 50 m·s⁻¹. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get v=.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 25 Hz · 2 m. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
50 m·s⁻¹
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Reason
v=fλ.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
50 m·s⁻¹
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
50 m·s⁻¹
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 50 m·s⁻¹
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
7 · 2 Marks · Mechanical energy
Kinetic energy of 2 kg moving at 4 m·s⁻¹
Mechanical energy
Formulas
Ek=½ m v²
Kinetic energy
Ep=m g h
Gravitational potential
Notes: Kinetic energy of 2 kg moving at 4 m·s⁻¹
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Kinetic energy of 2 kg moving at 4 m·s⁻¹
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 2 kg · 4 m·s⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Kinetic energy of 2 kg moving at 4 m·s⁻¹. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Kinetic energy of 2 kg moving at 4 m·s⁻¹. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: E_k = ½mv² = ½ × 2 × 16 = 16 J. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Kinetic energy of 2 kg moving at 4 m·s⁻¹.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Ek=½mv²=½×2×16=16 J.
2. What do we already know?
Kinetic energy of 2 kg moving at 4 m·s⁻¹
3. Which method — and why this one?
Ek=½mv²=½×2×16=16 J.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 2 kg · 4 m·s⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Kinetic energy of 2 kg moving at 4 m·s⁻¹. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Kinetic energy of 2 kg moving at 4 m·s⁻¹. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: E_k = ½mv² = ½ × 2 × 16 = 16 J. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Kinetic energy of 2 kg moving at 4 m·s⁻¹.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Kinetic energy of 2 kg moving at 4 m·s⁻¹
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
Ek=½mv²=½×2×16=16 J.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
Ek=½mv²=½×2×16=16 J.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
16 J
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
16 J
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 16 J
6. Check it like a marker
Ek=½mv²=½×2×16=16 J.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
8 J
8 · 2 Marks
2 Ω and 2 Ω in parallel. R_eq =
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: 2 Ω and 2 Ω in parallel. R_eq =
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 2 Ω · 2 Ω. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: R_eq =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: R_eq =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 1 Ω. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get R_eq =.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
1 Ω
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 2 Ω · 2 Ω. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
1 Ω
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 2 Ω · 2 Ω. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: R_eq =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: R_eq =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: 1 Ω. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get R_eq =.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 2 Ω · 2 Ω. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
1 Ω
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
1R=12+12=1, so R=1 Ω. Equal parallels halve.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
1 Ω
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
1 Ω
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 1 Ω
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
9 · 2 Marks
Like charges
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Like charges
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Like charges. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Like charges. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: repel. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Like charges.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
repel
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
repel
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Like charges. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Like charges. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: repel. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Like charges.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
repel
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Reason
Same sign, repel.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
repel
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
repel
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: repel
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
10 · 4 Marks
Snell: n₁ sin θ₁=n₂ sin θ₂. n₁=1, θ₁=30°, n₂=1.5. θ₂ ≈
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Snell: n₁ sin θ₁ = n₂ sin θ₂. n₁ = 1, θ₁ = 30°, n₂ = 1.5. θ₂ ≈
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 1 · 30° · 1.5. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: θ₂ ≈. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: θ₂ ≈. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: sin θ₂ = sin301. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get θ₂ ≈.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
sin θ₂=sin301.5=0.333→θ₂ ≈ 19.5°.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 1 · 30° · 1.5. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
sin θ₂=sin301.5=0.333→θ₂ ≈ 19.5°.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 1 · 30° · 1.5. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: θ₂ ≈. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: θ₂ ≈. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: sin θ₂ = sin301. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get θ₂ ≈.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 1 · 30° · 1.5. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
sin θ₂=sin301.5=0.333→θ₂ ≈ 19.5°.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
sin θ₂=sin301.5=0.333→θ₂ ≈ 19.5°.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
19.5°
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
19.5°
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 19.5°
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
11 · 2 Marks
Which has the highest frequency?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Which has the highest frequency?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Which has the highest frequency. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Which has the highest frequency. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: Gamma is at the top of the spectrum. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Which has the highest frequency.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Gamma is at the top of the spectrum.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Gamma is at the top of the spectrum.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Which has the highest frequency. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Which has the highest frequency. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: Gamma is at the top of the spectrum. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Which has the highest frequency.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
Gamma is at the top of the spectrum.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
Gamma is at the top of the spectrum.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
gamma
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
gamma
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: gamma
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
12 · 2 Marks · Geometrical optics
Light in vacuum travels at
Geometrical optics
Formulas
i=r
Angle of incidence = angle of reflection
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Light in vacuum travels at
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Light in vacuum travels at. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Light in vacuum travels at. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: c = 3. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Light in vacuum travels at.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
c=3.0×10⁸ m·s⁻¹.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
c=3.0×10⁸ m·s⁻¹.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Light in vacuum travels at. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Light in vacuum travels at. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: c = 3. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Light in vacuum travels at.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
c=3.0×10⁸ m·s⁻¹.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
c=3.0×10⁸ m·s⁻¹.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
3.0×10⁸ m·s⁻¹
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
3.0×10⁸ m·s⁻¹
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 3.0×10⁸ m·s⁻¹
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
13 · 2 Marks
f=100 Hz, v=340 m·s⁻¹. λ=
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: f = 100 Hz, v = 340 m·s⁻¹. λ =
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 100 Hz · 340 m·s⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: λ =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: λ =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 3. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get λ =.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
3.4 m
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 100 Hz · 340 m·s⁻¹. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
3.4 m
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 100 Hz · 340 m·s⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: λ =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: λ =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: 3. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get λ =.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 100 Hz · 340 m·s⁻¹. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
3.4 m
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
λ = vf=340 / 100 = 3.4 m. Wavelength is speed divided by frequency, not multiplied.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
3.4 m
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
3.4 m
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 3.4 m
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
14 · 2 Marks
Like magnetic poles
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Like magnetic poles
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Like magnetic poles. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Like magnetic poles. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: Like poles repel, unlike attract. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Like magnetic poles.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Like poles repel, unlike attract.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Like poles repel, unlike attract.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Like magnetic poles. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Like magnetic poles. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: Like poles repel, unlike attract. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Like magnetic poles.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
Like poles repel, unlike attract.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
Like poles repel, unlike attract.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
repel
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
repel
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: repel
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
15 · 2 Marks
T=0.02 s. f=
Notes: Period T = 0.02 s. Unknown: frequency.
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: T = 0.02 s. f =
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 0.02 s. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: f =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: f =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
Write f = 1T with empty letters. Cross out every letter that already has a number. Calculate the letter that is still standing — that gives f =.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
f=1T.
2. What do we already know?
Period T = 0.02 s. Unknown: frequency.
3. Which method — and why this one?
f=1T.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 05
Write f = 1/T
Frequency is how many cycles per second.
f=1T
Why this step: Write the formula before numbers. The memo awards a method mark for the law even if a digit slips later.
02 / 05
Calculate
f=10.02=50 Hz.
f=50 Hz
Why this step: One job per line so you can find a slip, and so a marker can follow the marks.
03 / 05
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
04 / 05
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
50 Hz
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
05 / 05
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
50 Hz
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Formula: f=1T
Answer: 50 Hz
6. Check it like a marker
A 50 Hz mains cycle takes 0.02 s. Matches South African AC.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
Do not leave 0.02 as the frequency. f and T are reciprocals.
16 · 2 Marks
E_k of 2 kg at 3 m·s⁻¹ is
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: E_k of 2 kg at 3 m·s⁻¹ is
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 2 kg · 3 m·s⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: E_k of 2 kg at 3 m·s⁻¹ is. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: E_k of 2 kg at 3 m·s⁻¹ is. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: ½mv² = ½×2×9 = 9 J. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get E_k of 2 kg at 3 m·s⁻¹ is.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
½mv²=½×2×9=9 J.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 2 kg · 3 m·s⁻¹. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
½mv²=½×2×9=9 J.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 2 kg · 3 m·s⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: E_k of 2 kg at 3 m·s⁻¹ is. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: E_k of 2 kg at 3 m·s⁻¹ is. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: ½mv² = ½×2×9 = 9 J. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get E_k of 2 kg at 3 m·s⁻¹ is.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 2 kg · 3 m·s⁻¹. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
½mv²=½×2×9=9 J.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
½mv²=½×2×9=9 J.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
9 J
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
9 J
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 9 J
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
17 · 2 Marks
From rest, a = 2 m·s⁻² for 5 s. Distance?
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: From rest, a = 2 m·s⁻² for 5 s. Distance?
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 2 m·s⁻² · 5 s. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Distance. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Distance. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: Δx = ½at² = ½×2×25 = 25 m. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Distance.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Δx=½at²=½×2×25=25 m.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 2 m·s⁻² · 5 s. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Δx=½at²=½×2×25=25 m.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 2 m·s⁻² · 5 s. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Distance. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Distance. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: Δx = ½at² = ½×2×25 = 25 m. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Distance.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 2 m·s⁻² · 5 s. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
Δx=½at²=½×2×25=25 m.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
Δx=½at²=½×2×25=25 m.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
25 m
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
25 m
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 25 m
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
18 · 2 Marks
f=200 Hz, v=340 m·s⁻¹. λ=
Notes: f = 200 Hz, v = 340 m·s⁻¹ (sound in air). Unknown: wavelength λ.
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: f = 200 Hz, v = 340 m·s⁻¹. λ =
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 200 Hz · 340 m·s⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: λ =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: λ =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
Write λ = vf with empty letters. Cross out every letter that already has a number. Calculate the letter that is still standing — that gives λ =.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
v = f λ, so λ = vf. Wavelength is speed divided by frequency, not multiplied.
2. What do we already know?
f = 200 Hz, v = 340 m·s⁻¹ (sound in air). Unknown: wavelength λ.
3. Which method — and why this one?
v = f λ, so λ = vf. Wavelength is speed divided by frequency, not multiplied.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 200 Hz · 340 m·s⁻¹. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: λ =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: λ =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: Write λ = vf with empty letters. Cross out every letter that already has a number. Calculate the letter that is still standing — that gives λ =.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
f = 200 Hz, v = 340 m·s⁻¹ (sound in air). Unknown: wavelength λ.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
v = f λ, so λ = vf. Wavelength is speed divided by frequency, not multiplied.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Make λ the subject
λ=vf=340200=1.7 m.
λ=vf
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
1.7 m
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
1.7 m
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Formula: λ=vf
Answer: 1.7 m
6. Check it like a marker
A 200 Hz tone in air should be about 1–2 m. 1.7 m is a longish wave, which matches a fairly low pitch.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
Multiplying 200 × 340 = 68000. That would be v × f, which is not a wave equation.
19 · 3 Marks
vi=0, vf=20 m·s⁻¹, Δt=4 s. a=
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: v_i=0, v_f=20 m·s⁻¹, Δt=4 s. a =
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 0 · 20 m·s⁻¹ · 4 s. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: a =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: a =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: a=(20−0)4=5. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get a =.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
a=(20−0)4=5.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 0 · 20 m·s⁻¹ · 4 s. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
a=(20−0)4=5.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 0 · 20 m·s⁻¹ · 4 s. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: a =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: a =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: a=(20−0)4=5. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get a =.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 0 · 20 m·s⁻¹ · 4 s. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
a=(20−0)4=5.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
a=(20−0)4=5.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
5 m·s⁻²
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
5 m·s⁻²
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 5 m·s⁻²
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
20 · 3 Marks
4 Ω and 4 Ω in parallel. R_eq =
Notes: Two equal resistors, 4 Ω each, connected in parallel.
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: 4 Ω and 4 Ω in parallel. R_eq =
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 4 Ω · 4 Ω. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: R_eq =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: R_eq =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
Write 1R=1R₁+1R₂ with empty letters. Cross out every letter that already has a number. Calculate the letter that is still standing — that gives R_eq =.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
1R=1R₁+1R₂. Equal parallels: Req=R2.
2. What do we already know?
Two equal resistors, 4 Ω each, connected in parallel.
3. Which method — and why this one?
1R=1R₁+1R₂. Equal parallels: Req=R2.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 05
Write the parallel law
1R=14+14=12, so R=2 Ω.
1R=1R₁+1R₂
Why this step: Write the formula before numbers. The memo awards a method mark for the law even if a digit slips later.
02 / 05
Shortcut
Two equal resistors in parallel halve. 42=2 Ω.
Req=2 Ω
Why this step: One job per line so you can find a slip, and so a marker can follow the marks.
03 / 05
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
04 / 05
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
2 Ω
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
05 / 05
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
2 Ω
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Formula: 1R=1R₁+1R₂
Answer: 2 Ω
6. Check it like a marker
Parallel is always smaller than the smallest branch. 2 < 4. Good.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
Do not add 4+4=8 — that is series. Do not write 0 Ω.
21 · 2 Marks · Mechanical energy
Sound needs a
Mechanical energy
Formulas
Ek=½ m v²
Kinetic energy
Ep=m g h
Gravitational potential
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Sound needs a
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Sound needs a. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Sound needs a. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: Mechanical wave. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Sound needs a.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Mechanical wave. No sound on the Moon.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Mechanical wave. No sound on the Moon.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Sound needs a. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Sound needs a. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: Mechanical wave. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Sound needs a.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
Mechanical wave. No sound on the Moon.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
Mechanical wave. No sound on the Moon.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
medium
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
medium
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: medium
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
22 · 2 Marks
From rest, a = 4 m·s⁻² for 3 s. v_f =
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: From rest, a = 4 m·s⁻² for 3 s. v_f =
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 4 m·s⁻² · 3 s. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: v_f =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: v_f =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 12 m·s⁻¹. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get v_f =.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
12 m·s⁻¹
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 4 m·s⁻² · 3 s. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
12 m·s⁻¹
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 4 m·s⁻² · 3 s. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: v_f =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: v_f =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: 12 m·s⁻¹. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get v_f =.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 4 m·s⁻² · 3 s. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
12 m·s⁻¹
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
vf=vi+a t=0+4×3=12 m·s⁻¹.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
12 m·s⁻¹
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
12 m·s⁻¹
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 12 m·s⁻¹
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
23 · 2 Marks
2 Ω and 2 Ω in series. R_total =
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: 2 Ω and 2 Ω in series. R_total =
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 2 Ω · 2 Ω. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: R_total =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: R_total =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 4 Ω. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get R_total =.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
4 Ω
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 2 Ω · 2 Ω. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
4 Ω
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 2 Ω · 2 Ω. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: R_total =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: R_total =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: 4 Ω. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get R_total =.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 2 Ω · 2 Ω. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
4 Ω
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Reason
Series add.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
4 Ω
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
4 Ω
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 4 Ω
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
24 · 3 Marks
Weight of a 5 kg bag of mielies on Earth (g = 9.8 m·s⁻²)
Notes: m = 5 kg. g = 9.8 m·s⁻². Unknown: weight W.
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Weight of a 5 kg bag of mielies on Earth (g = 9.8 m·s⁻²)
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 5 kg · 9.8 m·s⁻². Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: 8 m·s⁻²). Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: 8 m·s⁻²). Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
Write W = mg with empty letters. Cross out every letter that already has a number. Calculate the letter that is still standing — that gives 8 m·s⁻²).
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Weight is the gravitational force: W = mg. Mass is not weight.
2. What do we already know?
m = 5 kg. g = 9.8 m·s⁻². Unknown: weight W.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Weight is the gravitational force: W = mg. Mass is not weight.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 05
Write the weight law
W = m g. Unit is newton, not kilogram.
W=mg
Why this step: Write the formula before numbers. The memo awards a method mark even if a digit slips later.
02 / 05
Substitute
W=5×9.8=49 N.
W=49 N
Why this step: One job per line so you can find a slip, and so a marker can follow the marks.
03 / 05
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
04 / 05
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
49 N
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
05 / 05
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
49 N
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Formula: W=mg
Answer: 49 N
6. Check it like a marker
On the moon g is smaller so W would drop; m stays 5 kg.
7. A trap first-timers fall into
Do not write 5 N. That treats mass as weight. Markers circle this every year.
25 · 4 Marks · Mechanical energy
Photon energy increases if
Mechanical energy
Formulas
Ek=½ m v²
Kinetic energy
Ep=m g h
Gravitational potential
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Photon energy increases if
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Photon energy increases if. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Photon energy increases if. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: E=hf. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Photon energy increases if.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
E=hf.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
E=hf.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Photon energy increases if. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Photon energy increases if. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: E=hf. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Photon energy increases if.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
E=hf.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
E=hf.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
frequency increases
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
frequency increases
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: frequency increases
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
26 · 2 Marks
From rest a=5 m·s⁻² for 3 s. Δx=
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: From rest a=5 m·s⁻² for 3 s. Δx=
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 5 m·s⁻² · 3 s. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Δx=. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: Δx=. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 22. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Δx=.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
22.5 m
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 5 m·s⁻² · 3 s. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
22.5 m
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 5 m·s⁻² · 3 s. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: Δx=. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: Δx=. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: 22. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get Δx=.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 5 m·s⁻² · 3 s. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
22.5 m
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Reason
½at²=½×5×9=22.5.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
22.5 m
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
22.5 m
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 22.5 m
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
27 · 3 Marks
Two 10 Ω in parallel. R_eq=
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Two 10 Ω in parallel. R_eq=
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 10 Ω. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: R_eq=. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: R_eq=. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 5 Ω. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get R_eq=.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
5 Ω
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 10 Ω. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
5 Ω
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 10 Ω. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: R_eq=. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: R_eq=. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: 5 Ω. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get R_eq=.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 10 Ω. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
5 Ω
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Reason
Half.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
5 Ω
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
5 Ω
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 5 Ω
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
28 · 2 Marks · Pulses & superposition
Two pulses of +4 and −4 meet. The amplitude at that instant is
Formulas
y=y₁+y₂
Principle of superposition
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: Two pulses of +4 and −4 meet. The amplitude at that instant is
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 4 and · 4 meet. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: The amplitude at that instant is. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: The amplitude at that instant is. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: Destructive superposition: +4 + (−4) = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get The amplitude at that instant is.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Destructive superposition: +4 + (−4) = 0.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 4 and · 4 meet. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Destructive superposition: +4 + (−4) = 0.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 4 and · 4 meet. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: The amplitude at that instant is. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: The amplitude at that instant is. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: Destructive superposition: +4 + (−4) = 0. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get The amplitude at that instant is.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 4 and · 4 meet. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
Destructive superposition: +4 + (−4) = 0.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
Destructive superposition: +4 + (−4) = 0.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
0
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
0
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 0
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
29 · 2 Marks
A plane mirror forms an image that is
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: A plane mirror forms an image that is
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: A plane mirror forms an image that is. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: A plane mirror forms an image that is. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: Lateral inversion, virtual. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get A plane mirror forms an image that is.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
Lateral inversion, virtual.
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
Lateral inversion, virtual.
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: no numbers yet — only a name, a diagram, or a worded unknown. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: A plane mirror forms an image that is. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: A plane mirror forms an image that is. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: Lateral inversion, virtual. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get A plane mirror forms an image that is.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: every number and its unit in the sentence. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
Lateral inversion, virtual.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
Lateral inversion, virtual.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
virtual, upright, same size
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
virtual, upright, same size
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: virtual, upright, same size
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”
30 · 2 Marks
v=fλ. f=50 Hz, λ=2 m. v=
How we got there
Read this like a teacher at the board. We go slowly, name every number, and say why we take each step.
Explain in another language · 11
1. What is the question asking?
Read the question twice. Circle the unknown. Underline every number and unit. The paper is asking: v = fλ. f = 50 Hz, λ = 2 m. v =
Before any working — hunt first
Given
Numbers and units already in the sentence: 50 Hz · 2 m. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing
After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: v =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find
We are required to find: v =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate
What we need to calculate: 100 m·s⁻¹. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get v =.
In other words — as if you have never seen this before
100 m·s⁻¹
2. What do we already know?
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 50 Hz · 2 m. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
3. Which method — and why this one?
100 m·s⁻¹
4. Step-by-step working
01 / 08
Step A — Read the question twice
Slow down. Circle the word that names the unknown. Underline every number and its unit. Do not grab a formula yet — first decide what the paper is actually asking.
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
02 / 08
Step A2 — Hunt: Given, Missing, Find, Calculate
Given: Numbers and units already in the sentence: 50 Hz · 2 m. Copy each one into a column. A name without a number is not given.
Missing: After you copy the given, the letter that still has no number is missing. The paper is pointing at: v =. Circle that word — that is the missing variable.
Find: We are required to find: v =. Write that as a symbol on the left, with a question mark, before you touch a formula.
Calculate: What we need to calculate: 100 m·s⁻¹. Then substitute the given, one line at a time, to get v =.
Why this step: Do not name the letters yet. First hunt: what already has a number (Given), what has no number (Missing), the word the paper wants (Find), and which formula still contains the missing letter (Calculate).
03 / 08
Step B — Write the given in a column
Copy these onto the left of your page, one per line, with units: 50 Hz · 2 m. Mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds, loses a method mark.
Why this step: A column with units stops you mixing cm with m, or minutes with seconds. Markers can also see you started correctly.
04 / 08
Step C — Name the method in words
100 m·s⁻¹
Why this step: If you can say the method in a sentence, you will pick the right formula. First-timers skip this and grab the first equation they remember.
05 / 08
Working
v=50×2=100 m·s⁻¹.
Why this step: We only do one job per line so a marker can follow the marks — and so you can find a slip without starting over.
06 / 08
Step G — Sense-check the size
Ask: is this the kind of number a Grade 10–12 paper would want? A speed of 3 000 ms for a learner walking, or a probability bigger than 1, means a unit or algebra slip. Estimate first: round the numbers and do the sum in your head.
Why this step: Markers write ‘unrealistic’ in the margin when the method is right but the size is wild. A 10-second head check often finds a missing 10² or a unit that never changed.
07 / 08
Step F — Box the answer with its unit
100 m·s⁻¹
Why this step: A number without a unit is half a mark on a Physics paper, and a marker can miss a Maths answer that is buried in working.
08 / 08
Step H — What the marker is looking for
On an NSC memo you usually earn: (1) a method mark for naming the right formula or idea in words, (2) an accuracy mark for substituting the given numbers with units, (3) an accuracy mark for the boxed answer with its unit. Write those three lines even if you are unsure of the arithmetic — blank pages score zero.
Why this step: First-timers chase the final number and leave the method blank. The memo still pays out for the idea and the substitution even when the last line is wrong.
5. The answer
100 m·s⁻¹
Copy onto your answer sheet — in this order
Answer: 100 m·s⁻¹
6. Check it like a marker
Does your answer appear as one of the options? Do the units match what was asked (m, N, J, °)? If you put the number back into the original equation, does it still hold? Estimate: is the size sensible?
7. A trap first-timers fall into
First-timers often grab the first formula they remember, mix units (cm with m, minutes with seconds), or drop a minus sign. Write the formula in words first: “this equals that, because…”