How to Prepare for IGCSE Physics: Topic-Wise Strategy for Paper 1, 2, and 6

Pradeep Tangniya
Aug 19
5 min read

Getting started with IGCSE Physics can feel like stepping into a whirlwind of topics, calculations, and complex concepts. But with a structured approach, strong fundamentals, and steady practice, you can build the confidence and skills needed to succeed in every paper.

This guide breaks down the IGCSE Physics exam structure and gives you topic-by-topic strategies to help you prepare effectively for Paper 1 (Multiple Choice), Paper 2 (Structured Theory), and Paper 6 (Alternative to Practical).

Understand the IGCSE Physics Exam Format

Before diving into your topics, it’s important to understand the structure of the exam. This blog is tailored for Cambridge IGCSE Physics (0625) — though the strategies are helpful for Edexcel learners too.

Paper 1: Multiple Choice
40 questions | 45 minutes | Core & Extended options
Tests conceptual clarity and quick application

Paper 2 (or 3): Structured Theory
80 marks | 1 hour 15 mins
Deeper written responses with calculations, graphs, and explanations

Paper 6: Alternative to Practical
40 marks | 1 hour
Tests your understanding of experimental design and data analysis

teacher teaching physics — Ace IGCSE Physics with IB Learning Star. Book your free trial class now !!

Topic-Wise Strategy for IGCSE Physics

1. General Physics (Motion, Forces, Energy)

General Physics is the backbone of IGCSE Physics. It includes fundamental ideas such as speed, velocity, acceleration, mass, force, and energy conversion. To excel in this section, begin by mastering the essential equations like speed = distance/time and force = mass × acceleration. These are frequently used across multiple papers and are the foundation for solving motion-related problems.

Graphs play a major role here — particularly distance-time and velocity-time graphs. Make sure you can interpret gradients and areas under the graph correctly, as these often appear in structured questions. Newton’s Laws, especially the second law, come up often in Paper 2 and require not just theoretical understanding but also practical application in context-based questions.

In Paper 6, questions may ask you to describe how to measure motion using a ticker tape timer or how to calculate acceleration using a simple experiment. Being familiar with common apparatus used in motion experiments helps tremendously.

2. Thermal Physics

Thermal Physics includes temperature measurement, methods of heat transfer (conduction, convection, radiation), and concepts like specific heat capacity and latent heat. These topics are not just theory-heavy but also very calculation-based.

Start by understanding how heat flows and the difference between the three types of heat transfer. Real-life examples — such as why metal feels colder than wood or how a vacuum flask works — can help solidify your concepts. Use those same examples to apply theoretical understanding in the exam.

Specific heat capacity and latent heat questions are frequent in Paper 2 and often come with multi-step calculations. Always include units in your final answers, and ensure your working is clearly shown. In Paper 6, expect questions like describing how to measure the heat gained by a substance using a calorimeter. Knowing how to set up and evaluate practicals is key.

3. Waves (Light, Sound, General Wave Properties)

Waves can be a conceptual challenge for many students, but it’s a high-yield topic. The section includes transverse and longitudinal waves, wave speed equations, the electromagnetic spectrum, light behavior (reflection and refraction), and sound waves.

Begin by learning wave definitions thoroughly. Terms like amplitude, wavelength, frequency, and wave speed are crucial. Know how to apply the wave speed equation v = f × λ in different contexts. Drawing and interpreting ray diagrams for reflection and refraction are common exam requirements, especially for Paper 2.

Paper 6 questions might involve describing how to use a ripple tank to investigate wave properties, or how to measure the speed of sound using an echo experiment. For topics like EM spectrum, focus on properties and uses of each type of wave, which are frequently tested.

4. Electricity and Magnetism

This topic is one of the most weighted and scoring sections in the syllabus. It includes electric circuits, resistance, Ohm’s law, electromagnetism, and transformers. Start by ensuring you understand circuit symbols and how to draw them accurately. Simple circuits and the correct placement of ammeters and voltmeters are often tested in both Paper 2 and Paper 6.

Learn how current, voltage, and resistance are related. Practice calculations using Ohm’s law and apply these to series and parallel circuits. For Paper 2, many students struggle with interpreting circuit diagrams. Focus on understanding how the current and voltage behave in different parts of a circuit.

In electromagnetism, focus on applications like the electric bell and relay, as well as the left-hand rule and how transformers step up or step down voltage. Paper 6 often asks students to describe practicals involving variable resistors, measuring resistance, or checking for continuity.

5. Atomic Physics & Radioactivity

This topic is concept-heavy but fascinating and relevant to real-world science. Key concepts include atomic structure, radioactive decay, types of radiation, half-life, and practical uses of radioisotopes.

Start by learning the properties of alpha, beta, and gamma radiation — how they differ in penetration, ionization, and shielding. Questions often ask for comparisons, as well as scenarios involving radiation safety.

Nuclear equations, where particles decay into other elements, are tested in Paper 2. You must be able to balance atomic and mass numbers correctly. Half-life calculations appear regularly and require clear logical steps, practice with varied examples.

Paper 6 questions may involve planning an experiment to test for background radiation or to demonstrate how shielding affects radiation levels. Understanding how to use and explain a Geiger-Müller counter is useful here.

Tips for Each IGCSE Physics Paper

Paper 1: Multiple ChoiceThis paper is about speed, accuracy, and understanding concepts under time pressure. You need to be very familiar with definitions, units, and quick calculations. Practice from past papers regularly to build instinctive accuracy.

Paper 2: Structured TheoryThis is where you need to explain clearly, calculate methodically, and write neatly. Read the questions fully before jumping in. If asked to "describe," don't just list; give full, well-structured responses. Always show your working in calculations, label your diagrams, and check your units.

Paper 6: Alternative to PracticalThis paper tests your theoretical understanding of experiments. Focus on experiment setup, identifying control variables, and evaluating accuracy. Revise common school experiments such as determining resistance, measuring specific heat, or plotting cooling curves.

Helpful Tools for IGCSE Physics Revision

Here are some tools to boost your revision:

Formula flashcards to help you master equations and units
Topic checklists to track progress and spot weak areas
Mark schemes to understand how examiners award marks
YouTube tutorials that explain tricky concepts with visuals
Apps like Quizlet for reviewing definitions and terms through quizzes

Quick Tricks to Boost Performance

Focus your effort on topics that carry more marks in the exam where electricity, motion, and energy are almost always heavily tested. Use color-coded notes to organize information and keep a list of common mistakes to avoid repeating them.

Teach a topic to someone else. It’s one of the best ways to cement your understanding. Use a timer when practicing past papers to get used to exam timing. Finally, keep all your notes organized in one place for quick last-minute reviews.

How IB Learning Star Can Help You Excel in IGCSE Physics

At IB Learning Star, we specialize in IGCSE Physics online tutoring designed to simplify complex concepts and boost exam confidence. Whether you’re aiming for a top grade or trying to strengthen your basics, our expert tutors adapt the sessions to your learning style.

Here’s what makes our support effective: