It's great in lessons - for looking up terms or equations when you forget - as well as for revision before an exam. The writing is clear and keeps the reader interested - so it's also great for just dipping into anytime (when you feel bored, perhaps?).

The definitions in the book seem to be made for exam revision - indeed, memorising and quoting them will get you the full marks for 'definition' questions (i.e. those that start with "explain the meaning of..." or "define the term..."). The clear and informative diagrams are also great for this purpose.

My only gripe is that sometimes the definition for a number of different terms are grouped under a single heading, and this can make it harder to find things at times. For example, there is no entry for "weak force" or "strong force" (nuclear physics) even to direct you to the entry under which it is explained - a single entry for the four fundamental interactions.

But overall, this book is well-written, comprehensive and great reading. Highly recommended!


Require a quick reference book?   June 5, 2000
 4 out of 4 found this review helpful

Hi, I'm currently in the first year of A-level physics and I was looking for a book that offered a quick reference to some of the definitions/data information and a basic guide for revision. I find the book quite easily accessible, but sometimes it doesn't lead you to what you want straight away. It hasn't covered everything on the syllabus I'm working with but it is very successful in the areas that it has covered. I would definitely recommend this book, please e-mail me if you have any questions regarding the book.


Essential for Physics A-Level   March 27, 1999
 1 out of 1 found this review helpful

This is by far the best Physics textbook I've seen. It gives you clear and easy to understand explanations of not only all the concepts you need to be familiar with for A-Level but also all the formulae and practicals as well. The only criticism I have of this book is that there is no suggested further reading or practice questions and it is only really useful as a study aid to prepare for a Physics A-Level.