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QCE Physics Study Guide

A QCAA-informed guide to QCE Physics study, including IA2/IA3 habits, uncertainty, graphs, external exam technique and common pitfalls.

Updated 2026-05-13 ยท 2 min read

QCE Physics study guide

Physics is about using models carefully. The marks often come from showing assumptions, processing data correctly and explaining why a model fits or does not fit the situation.

Start with the system

Before calculating, define the system:

  • what object or interaction is being studied?
  • what forces, fields, waves or energy transfers matter?
  • what assumptions simplify the model?
  • which measurements are uncertain?

A clear diagram is often the fastest way to avoid the wrong equation.

IA2 student experiment habits

For Physics IA2, your research question should name the independent and dependent variables clearly. Your method should collect enough data across a useful range, not just a few isolated points.

Strong responses usually:

  • include SI units throughout
  • process uncertainty and error bars where appropriate
  • use graph gradients or relationships rather than isolated values
  • explain outliers or anomalous results
  • link limitations to validity, reliability or accuracy
  • propose improvements that directly address those limitations

IA3 research investigation habits

For Physics IA3, secondary evidence needs to be relevant to the exact research question. Do not just summarise articles. Compare trends, identify limitations and explain how each source supports or weakens your conclusion.

Useful evidence questions:

  • Does the evidence test the same variables as my research question?
  • Are the conditions comparable?
  • Is the model theoretical, simulated or experimental?
  • Does the evidence show a trend or only a single value?
  • Are uncertainties, assumptions or boundary conditions reported?

External exam habits

Practise moving between representations:

  • diagram to equation
  • graph to gradient
  • written context to assumptions
  • units to dimensional checks
  • result to reasonableness statement

When a question asks for a judgement, use the data or model to justify it. A sentence like "this is reasonable" is not enough unless it explains why.

Sources