Difficulty verdict

This is a moderate paper (about 3/5). Paper 1 is accessible: around 40% of its marks are one-mark multiple choice or short recall and substitution. Paper 2 is harder. It is dominated by practical-analysis contexts, multi-step calculations and two 6-mark levels-of-response questions that reward a structured line of reasoning.

Where the marks are

  • Resistivity, potential dividers and circuits is the largest block (about 15 marks). It includes a resistor-wire design question, a light-dependent-resistor investigation and the burglar-alarm sensitivity question.
  • Newton's laws and momentum (about 15 marks) is driven by the rocket question, which runs from thrust and exhaust speed to an extended comparison of propulsion systems.
  • Vectors, kinematics and modelling (about 11 marks) includes projectiles, v-t areas and a step-by-step iterative table.
  • Accuracy, precision and uncertainty (about 11 marks) shows up in consistency tests, label values and range-based uncertainty.
  • Digital signalling (10 marks) is a very gettable question on bits, sampling and bit-rate.

Pitfalls to avoid

  • Confusing accuracy (closeness to the true value) with precision (scatter). One 4-mark question rests on exactly this distinction.
  • Leaving out units or the conversion between metres and centimetres or nanometres, and dropping powers of ten.
  • Forgetting to use \(g\) when a resultant force or the weight is needed.
  • Calculations with no working. "Show that" questions need the substitution and an answer to more figures than the target value.
  • Not using the data you are given. Extended questions reward worked values (such as momentum per kg of fuel) compared with a clear conclusion.

Strategy

Use the Paper 1 multiple-choice section as a quick 20 marks in about 25 minutes. Allow roughly 1 minute per mark elsewhere, and keep about 10 minutes for the 6-mark questions. State the method first, then calculate, then conclude. For graph questions, draw large gradient triangles and read points to half a small square.

Looking ahead

Superposition and standing waves carried 32-40 marks in each earlier series but only about 1 mark here, so expect it to come back strongly. Stress, strain and the Young modulus (5 marks, down from 12-21) and lenses are also candidates. Circuits, uncertainty and practical analysis are near-certain every year, so keep revising them.