Physics folks, out of curiosity...

[danaeris]

Anyone out there have physics textbooks they could lend me if I decided to take the GREs? I have a basic calculus text book and Griffiths Quantum textbook, and that's all. All the French textbooks, etc., I used in college I borrowed from my now ex-husband. My E&M Griffiths textbook went missing long ago.

Anyone who might be interested in tutoring me for affordable rates if I decided I needed tutoring? Anyone with advice on the Physics GRE and how heinous it is? I hear that it will ask some pretty advanced questions about all sorts of stuff I've probably never seen before.

Comments

[metallic-wings.livejournal.com]

I have conceptual physics textbook that is written in really easy to understand terms. Let me know if you'd like to borrow it.

For link to practice questions and other information on the physics GRE, try http://www.physicsGRE.com

[sirreality.livejournal.com]

If I remember correctly, greater than 60% and maybe up to 75% of the questions can be answered with first year (calculus) physics. I would hit the basic physics pretty hard, do some of the junior level mechanics, E&M, quantum and thermo, then re-familiarize yourself especially relevant and central bits of whatever senior level electives (Solid State, Particle, Plasma, etc.) you took. IIRC, each of those topics take up something like 2-3% of the total test, so I wouldn't recommend spending too much time on them.

You should get some practice tests (most SPS chapters have at least a few) and use them. I found them extremely helpful. Googling for "Physics GRE", as always, turns up some good info.

I'm good at standarized tests, but it really wasn't that bad. Throwing in a couple heinous questions is just part of their strategy to measure even the people who have already gone through a year or two of grad school (here or in China) and are trying to qualify for fellowships. But it's just a few questions. Have the first couple years down pat. Don't panic. Bring a towel. Go out for a beer (or another relaxing activity) afterwards. As long as you prepare you'll do fine. :-)

[qedrakmar.livejournal.com]

Get yourself a copy of "A review of Undergraduate Physics" by Bayman and Hamermesh. It will rock your world.