<p>Does anyone have any recommendations for books? I just want to make semifinals. I'm taking physics B next year, but I'm willing to self study a lot. Thanks.</p>
<p>Algebra based textbooks - Giancoli Physics w/ Principles</p>
<p>Calculus based textbooks- Physics by Halliday, Resnick, Krane</p>
<p>An Introduction to Mechanics by Kleppner is the best resource for USAPhO preparation. It’s a bit advanced for the F=Ma exam, but the problems are difficult and are exactly the sort you’ll be tested on.</p>
<p>You’ll have to do quite a bit of work, considering that Physics B doesn’t have a lot of emphasis on problem solving; at least not as much as in Physics C.</p>
<p>If you have any further questions, feel free to ask!</p>
<p>I’m going to take precalculus, so would you guys recommend self studying calculus to quality for semifinals? Thanks.</p>
<p>Yes, just learn limits, basic derivatives, and basic integrals. Learn the concepts because knowing the concepts is key to setting up a problem.</p>
<p>@Mapletree7, I’ve never heard of that book before, thanks! Could you tell me how the book was for you, and why it was the best resource? Did it work well for you? </p>
<p>I might borrow it from the library. Is this the correct book: [url=<a href=“http://www.amazon.com/An-Introduction-Mechanics-Daniel-Kleppner/dp/0521198216]Amazon.com:”>http://www.amazon.com/An-Introduction-Mechanics-Daniel-Kleppner/dp/0521198216]Amazon.com:</a> An Introduction to Mechanics (9780521198219): Daniel Kleppner, Robert J. Kolenkow: Books<a href=“published%201973”>/url</a> ?</p>
<p>I used Serway’s Physics for Scientists and Engineers (calculus based) and qualified for semifinals. I found it a solid reference although challenging for my first exposure to physics.</p>
<p>What book would you guys recommend to learn calculus needed for physics Olympiad?</p>