How to solve problems

2. Show your thought process

3. Follow all conventions (e.g. standard notation, right-hand coordinate systems, special conventions like long side in x-direction for rectangular waveguides, etc.). When you have to make up symbols or invent a notation for yourself, make it logicalsomething suggestive and a good mnemonic that will help you remember what it stands for. 5. Convert all given data to SI then plug in to get answers in SI; always check the units of symbolic results and include the units of numeric results.

1. Make a sketch Label coordinate systems Label points, surfaces, vectors, fields, forces, etc. Show reference directions for voltages and currents, etc.

4. Solve everything symbolically until the end: dont plug in numbers until you have a complete answer expressed as an algebraic equation (like all rules, this one sometimes doesnt make senseget the idea, then use your judgment). 6. Reflect on the answer; does it make sense? Check units Check magnitudes of numeric answers Sketch functional relationships Check trends and limits Does the answer seem intuitively correctdoes it have the ring of truth? Develop your intuitionyour ability to recognize correctness even without analysis. This is the most important reason for doing homework! The other reason is to learn to do the analysis; necessary but less important.

7. Reflect on the problem; make up a similar one What does this problem teach? State a concept or method (a logical path) Make up a similar problem: one that teaches the same concept or method

teach you what you need to know. All the problems are optional. The purpose of solving problems is to learn what the problem has to teach. If a problem seems obvious or repetitive to you, dont do it.

Doing problems is the only way to learn the subject. The assigned homework problems will Only solve problems that you dont know how to solve. There is no point in doing problems

you already know how to do; avoid busy-work from which you will learn nothing. Be advised, however, that the exams are based on the problems. Exams are designed to test that you did and understood all the homework. If you choose to skip a homework problem because you know you can do it, thats fine; you bear the responsibility for that choice in case it is selected for the exam.

Neatness doesnt count; creativity is chaotic; be creative. Draw lots of pictures; cross out,

information you need to look up: values of physical constants, formulas not in the math handbook, algorithms, method summariesanything you need and do not want to memorize. The posted problem solutions often give the answer in numeric but not symbolic form; you must supply the symbolic equations yourself. If the answer to a problem can be expressed as an algebraic formula, capture that formula on your note sheet; it might save you time on an exam. Dont wait until the night before to create your note sheetdo it all quarter while you are working homework problems. Ask your instructor to review your note sheet with you from time to time. Your note sheet is essential to your success. problems. A similar problem is a different problem that uses the same concepts or methods. The best way to make sure you have abstracted from a problem what concepts or methods it teaches is to make up a similar problem for yourself. Practice!

copy them onto your note sheet. If you use them correctly, they are your personal 24/7 tutor, a valuable resource for learning. If you abuse them, they are just one more way to waste your time. One purpose of homework is to develop self-reliance and confidence. If you are too quick to consult the solutions when you get stuck, this will not happenyou will become dependent. Instead, take more time and try to solve the problem on your own. Consult the solution only when you are unable to make progress after a substantial effort.

dont erase; use all the paper you need, dont throw any work away; number the pages. Collect all your homework in a three-ring binder and bring it to office hours and study groups. When solving problems, begin with a blank sheet of paper and go as far as you can. If you get stuck and need help, refer to the solution; then continue to solve the problem on your own.

Do not abuse the homework solutions! It is a waste of your time to just read them, or to

Make a note sheet as you work the problems. For each problem make a note of all

You must be able to solve all the assigned problems starting from a blank sheet of paper and referring only to your note sheet. Furthermore, you must be able to solve similar