Is IGCSE Physics Hard?

You've clicked on this article for a reason. Maybe you're lying awake at night wondering if you can handle IGCSE Physics. Or perhaps you're already studying it and feeling like you're drowning in formulas and diagrams.

Here's the truth: yes, IGCSE Physics can be challenging. But here's the better news: it's absolutely manageable when you understand what makes it tough and how to tackle those challenges head-on.

The frustration comes from not knowing whether the difficulty is "normal" or if you're genuinely struggling more than everyone else. Students often feel isolated, thinking they're the only ones finding momentum confusing or getting tangled up in circuit calculations.

This article will give you an honest assessment of IGCSE Physics difficulty. We'll break down exactly what makes it challenging, compare it to other sciences, and show you practical strategies to make it easier. No sugar-coating, no panic-inducing horror stories—just the facts you need.

At Save My Exams, we've helped thousands of students succeed in IGCSE Physics. Our resources are created by experienced teachers and examiners who know exactly what students struggle with and how to overcome those struggles.

Why Students Find IGCSE Physics Challenging

Let's be honest about what makes IGCSE Physics tricky. Understanding these challenges is the first step to conquering them.

Formula-Heavy Content

Physics relies heavily on mathematical formulas. You'll need to memorise equations for speed, force, energy, electricity, and more.

But it's not just about memorising. You need to know when to use each formula and how to rearrange them. For example, you might know that speed = distance ÷ time, but can you quickly rearrange it to find distance or time?

This formula manipulation is where many students get stuck. It requires a blend of physics knowledge and mathematical confidence.

Mathematical Demands

IGCSE Physics isn't a "pure" maths exam, but you'll definitely need solid maths skills. You'll be expected to work with:

• Standard form and significant figures

• Rearranging equations

• Working with ratios and proportions

• Interpreting and drawing graphs

• Converting units (kilometres to metres, kilojoules to joules, etc.)

The maths isn't usually extremely advanced. However, it appears in unfamiliar physics contexts, which can make it feel harder than it actually is.

Abstract and Invisible Concepts

Unlike Biology, where you can see cells under a microscope, or Chemistry, where you can watch reactions happen, Physics often deals with invisible forces and abstract ideas.

Try to picture these concepts:

• Magnetic fields (you can't see them, but they're there)

• Energy transfer (it powers the universe, but you can’t see it)

• Nuclear structure (atoms are far too small to observe directly)

• Forces acting on objects (forces are invisible pushes and pulls)

Many students struggle because they can't "see" what they're learning about. This makes it harder to understand and remember the content.

Applied Problem-Solving Questions

IGCSE Physics exams don't just test if you've memorised facts. They test whether you can apply your knowledge to new situations.

You might get a question about a rollercoaster you've never seen before. Or a circuit diagram that looks different from anything in your textbook. These questions require you to think on your feet and apply principles rather than just recall facts.

This is challenging because you can't simply memorise your way through Physics. You need to genuinely understand the concepts.

Language and Explanation Requirements

Physics isn't just about calculations. You'll frequently be asked to "explain" or "describe" phenomena using proper scientific language.

Questions might ask you to:

• Explain why a resistor heats up when current flows through it

• Describe how the structure of the atom leads to radioactive decay

• Compare the motion of objects acted on by different forces

These explanation questions can be surprisingly difficult. You need to express complex ideas clearly and use the correct scientific terminology. Many students lose marks here even when they understand the concept.

Is IGCSE Physics Harder Than Other Science Subjects?

This is one of the most common questions students ask. The answer depends partly on your personal strengths.

IGCSE Physics vs IGCSE Biology

Biology is generally considered more memory-intensive. You'll need to learn lots of specific facts about organs, cells, processes, and organisms.

Physics has less content to memorise but requires a deeper understanding of concepts and stronger mathematical skills.

You might find Physics easier if you:

• Prefer understanding "why" things happen rather than memorising lists

• Enjoy problem-solving and logical thinking

• Feel confident with numbers and calculations

You might find Biology easier if you:

• Have a strong memory for facts and details

• Prefer descriptive answers over calculations

• Find maths challenging or stressful

IGCSE Physics vs IGCSE Chemistry

Chemistry sits somewhere between Physics and Biology. It has both memorisation requirements (like Biology) and calculation demands (like Physics).

Physics generally requires more mathematical manipulation and abstract thinking. Chemistry is more concrete—you can see chemical reactions and touch different substances.

You might find Physics easier if you:

• Enjoy working with formulas and equations

• Prefer concepts that follow clear logical rules

• Like physics topics more than chemistry ones (this matters more than you think!)

You might find Chemistry easier if you:

• Prefer a balance between calculations and descriptive content

• Find it easier to learn about tangible substances rather than abstract forces

• Enjoy learning about how things react and change

The Verdict

There's no definitive "hardest" science. Physics tends to challenge students who struggle with maths or abstract thinking. Biology challenges students with weaker memories. Chemistry requires a bit of both skill sets.

Choose based on what you enjoy and where your strengths lie. You'll always find a subject easier if you're genuinely interested in it.

The Role of Maths in IGCSE Physics

Let's address the elephant in the room: how much maths do you actually need?

Essential Maths Skills for IGCSE Physics

You'll need to be comfortable with:

• Basic arithmetic: Addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division (including dealing with scientific notation and significant figures)

• Fractions and percentages: Understanding efficiency calculations and data analysis

• Algebra: Rearranging formulas to make different variables the subject

• Graphs: Drawing, interpreting, and calculating gradients and areas under curves

• Geometry: Understanding angles and using trigonometry

• Units and conversions: Switching between different units (g to kg, cm to m, etc.)

How to Boost Your Maths Confidence

If maths feels like your weak point, don't panic. Here's how to improve:

Practice formula rearrangement regularly. Take each equation you learn and practice making every variable the subject. For example, with F = ma, practice rearranging to find m = F/a and a = F/m.

Master unit conversions early. Make a conversion sheet and use it until the conversions become automatic. Knowing that 1 km = 1000 m or 1 kW = 1000 W will save you marks.

Work through calculation questions slowly. Don't rush. Write out every step of your working. This reduces errors and helps you spot where you're going wrong. There are very often method marks available even if you arrive at an incorrect answer in the exam.

You Don't Need to Be a Maths Genius

Here's some reassuring news: you don't need to be brilliant at maths to do well in IGCSE Physics.

The mathematical level required is roughly IGCSE maths. If you can handle basic algebra and arithmetic confidently, you have everything you need.

The key is applying maths in physics contexts. With practice, this becomes second nature.

How IGCSE Physics Is Assessed

Understanding the exam structure helps you prepare effectively and reduces anxiety.

Paper Structure

IGCSE Physics is typically assessed through two or three examination papers, depending on your exam board, and some exam boards have tiered papers, such as Core or Extended.

Core/standard tier covers the fundamental content and allows students to achieve up to a Grade C (or Grade 5 in the 9-1 system).

Extended/higher tier includes additional content and more challenging questions, with grades available up to A* (or Grade 9).

Most students take the Extended tier to keep all grade options open.

Types of Questions You'll Face

Multiple choice questions: These test your knowledge quickly across many topics. They sound easy but can be deceptively tricky. Wrong answers are designed to catch common misconceptions.

Structured questions: These are the backbone of Physics papers. They guide you through a problem step-by-step, starting with simpler parts and building to more complex analysis.

Calculation questions: You'll need to select the correct formula, substitute values, and calculate an answer. Always show your working—you can still get method marks even if your final answer is wrong.

Data analysis questions: These provide you with information (often in tables or graphs) and ask you to interpret it, spot patterns, or make predictions.

Practical-based questions: These test your understanding of experimental methods, apparatus, and analysis. You don't perform actual experiments in the exam, but you need to understand how experiments work.

Explanation questions: These require extended written responses using proper scientific language. Command words like "explain," "describe," and "compare" tell you what type of answer is needed.

Understanding Command Words

Understanding the command words is crucial. They tell you exactly what the examiner wants.

• State/Give/Name: Provide a brief answer without explanation

• Describe: Give an account of what happens, but don't explain why

• Explain: Give reasons why something happens, often using "because"

• Calculate: Work out a numerical answer and show your working

• Compare: Identify similarities and differences

• Suggest: Apply your knowledge to an unfamiliar situation

Mixing up "describe" and "explain" is one of the most common ways students lose marks. Always check the command word before answering.

What the Results Say

Let's look at actual data to see how students perform in IGCSE Physics.

According to Cambridge International's (CIE) June 2025 statistics (opens in a new tab):

• 22.6% of students achieved an A* grade 

• 44.1% achieved Grade A or above

• 80.5% of students achieved Grade C or above

Similarly, for Edexcel’s 2025 summer cohort (opens in a new tab):

• 21.3% of students scored a grade 9

• 40.5% achieved a grade 8 or above

• 81.0% of students achieved a grade 4 or above

Therefore, the vast majority of students who sit the exam achieve a passing grade.

What Does This Tell Us?

These statistics reveal several important things:

Success is common. Over four out of five students achieve Grade C/4 or above. This shows that IGCSE Physics is challenging, but certainly not impossible.

Top grades are achievable. More than one in five students achieve an A*/9. With proper preparation, top performance is within reach.

The grade distribution is spread out. There's a healthy range of grades, which suggests the exam effectively distinguishes between different levels of understanding.

Don't Let Statistics Stress You Out

Remember that statistics don't determine your personal outcome. They simply show what's possible.

Your result depends on your preparation, not on historical averages. Every A*/grade 9 student started somewhere—and many of them probably felt worried about finding Physics difficult at some point, too.

How to Make IGCSE Physics Easier

Now for the practical part: what can you actually do to improve your performance?

Master the Fundamentals First

Physics builds on itself. If you don't understand force, you'll struggle with pressure. If energy is unclear, electricity will be confusing.

Identify the core concepts in each topic and make sure you truly understand them before moving to more complex material.

Don't just memorise definitions. Test your understanding by explaining concepts to someone else (even if that someone is your pet or a stuffed toy!).

Use Active Recall and Spaced Repetition

Passive reading doesn't work well for Physics. You need active learning strategies.

Active recall means testing yourself on content without looking at your notes. Cover up the answer and try to remember it. This strengthens your memory far more effectively than just rereading.

Spaced repetition means reviewing content multiple times over increasing intervals. Review new content after one day, then three days, then a week, then two weeks. This fights the forgetting curve and moves information into long-term memory.

Use flashcards (physical or digital) for formulas, definitions, and key concepts. Test yourself regularly.

Practice Exam Questions Relentlessly

This cannot be emphasised enough: exam questions are your best friend.

They show you exactly what the exam looks like, how questions are worded, and what examiners expect.

Here at Save My Exams, we've got everything to help you succeed in IGCSE Physics:

Our IGCSE Physics exam board-specific revision notes cover exactly what you need to know for your specific exam with clear explanations, worked examples, and examiner tips and tricks to help you succeed.

Our exam questions are arranged by topic and include both multiple-choice and structured questions where applicable. You'll get student-friendly model answers, mark scheme guidance, and question-specific examiner tips so you know exactly what's expected. 

Many of our IGCSE Physics courses are also powered by Smart Mark, our in-house AI marking tool for personalised feedback to your answers to exam questions.

Our target tests identify your weak spots and turn them into strengths. These personalised, exam-style tests are built just for you. Smart, focused practice that gets you exam-ready.

When you're ready to test your exam technique, our increasing range of mock exams lets you experience the full exam under real conditions.

And we've organised all the IGCSE Physics past papers by exam board, making it super easy to find exactly what you need.

Here's how to use practice questions effectively:

Start with topic-based questions. Use the study guides to brush up on areas where you're weaker.

As your exam gets closer, move to complete timed papers. This builds your stamina and teaches you to handle time pressure.

After finishing the questions, always check the mark schemes. Look at sample answers to see exactly what examiners want.

Pay attention to how marks are awarded. You often get points for:

• Showing your working clearly

• Stating which physics principle you're using

• Including correct units

• Drawing accurate, labelled diagrams

Learn from your mistakes. Keep a list of questions you got wrong and why. Review this list regularly.

Make Physics Visual

Since physics deals with abstract concepts, visual learning can be incredibly helpful.

Use diagrams constantly. Draw force diagrams, circuit diagrams, ray diagrams, and energy transfer diagrams. The act of drawing helps you understand and remember.

Watch animations and simulations. Seeing how electrons move through circuits or how forces affect motion makes abstract ideas concrete. Many free resources exist online.

Colour-code your notes. Use different colours for different types of information (formulas in blue, definitions in green, examples in red). This creates visual memory cues.

Break Study Into Topic Blocks

Don't try to revise everything at once. Physics has several distinct topics, and they don't all connect directly.

Create a study schedule that tackles one topic at a time. Spend a few days on motion, then move to forces, and so on.

After covering a topic, complete practice questions specifically on that topic. This focused approach is more effective than random, scattered revision.

Get Comfortable With Practicals

Even though you don't do physical experiments in the exam, practical understanding is assessed.

Make sure you know common apparatus (ammeters, voltmeters, measuring cylinders, thermometers) and what they're used for.

Understand the difference between independent variables (what you change), dependent variables (what you measure), and control variables (what you keep the same).

Practice describing experimental methods clearly and identifying sources of error or ways to improve accuracy.

Ask for Help When You're Stuck

Physics builds on previous knowledge. If you don't understand something, the confusion will snowball.

Don't struggle in silence. Ask your teacher, a tutor, a classmate, or use online resources to clarify confusing concepts.

Sometimes a different explanation or approach makes everything click. If one explanation doesn't work, try finding another.

Self-Assessment: Are You Ready for IGCSE Physics?

Use this checklist to reflect on your current readiness. Be honest with yourself—this isn't a test, just a tool to help you identify areas to focus on.

Content Knowledge:

• I can recall and use key formulas without always checking my notes

• I understand the core concepts in each Physics topic, not just memorise them

• I can explain Physics concepts in my own words to someone else

Mathematical Skills:

• I feel confident rearranging formulas to make different variables the subject

• I can convert between different units (km to m, kW to W, etc.)

• I'm comfortable with calculations involving significant figures, fractions, and standard form

Exam Technique:

• I've practised past papers under timed conditions

• I understand what different command words mean (explain, describe, calculate)

• I know how to structure extended answers and use scientific terminology

Study Habits:

• I have a regular revision schedule and stick to it

• I use active learning methods (not just reading notes)

• I test myself regularly to identify gaps in my knowledge

Practical Understanding:

• I know the names and uses of common apparatus

• I can describe experimental methods clearly

• I understand variables (independent, dependent, control)

Support and Resources:

• I ask for help when I don't understand something

• I have access to quality revision materials and past papers

• I know where to find additional support if I need it

What Your Results Mean

If you ticked most boxes: You're in a strong position. Keep up your current study habits and continue practising past papers. Focus on refining your exam technique and timing.

If you ticked about half: You have a solid foundation, but need to strengthen specific areas. Look at which sections you left unchecked and create a focused improvement plan. Consider dedicating extra time to your weakest areas.

If you ticked fewer than half: Don't panic—you've identified where to focus your efforts. This is actually valuable information. Speak to your teacher about catching up on core concepts. Create a structured revision plan, starting with the fundamentals.

Remember, this assessment is just a snapshot of where you are right now. With focused effort, any of these areas can improve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is IGCSE Physics Harder Than GCSE Physics?

IGCSE and GCSE Physics are broadly similar in difficulty and content. Both qualifications require mathematical skills, conceptual understanding, and practical knowledge.

Some students find IGCSE slightly more challenging because it has less content repetition throughout the course. GCSE Physics may spend more time on certain topics.

However, the difference isn't significant. If you can handle one, you can handle the other. The real factor in difficulty is your school's teaching, your personal study habits, and how well the teaching style suits your learning preferences.

Both qualifications are recognised internationally and by UK universities. Choose based on which exam board your school offers, not on perceived difficulty.

Can I Do Well in Physics If I'm Not Great at Maths?

Yes, absolutely. While maths is important in Physics, you don't need to be a maths wizard to succeed.

The mathematical level required for IGCSE Physics is not extremely advanced. Most calculations involve:

• Basic arithmetic

• Simple algebra (rearranging formulas)

• Working with units and conversions

• Basic graph skills

If you're getting at least a pass grade in IGCSE Maths, you have the skills needed for IGCSE Physics calculations.

The key is practice. The more you work with IGCSE Physics formulas and calculations, the more comfortable you'll become. Many students who struggle with "pure" maths find they actually cope better with maths in IGCSE Physics contexts because there's a real-world application.

Focus on understanding what each formula means physically, not just manipulating symbols. This helps the maths make more sense.

What Are the Hardest Topics in IGCSE Physics?

This varies by student, but certain topics consistently challenge learners:

• Electricity and circuits – abstract concepts like current, potential difference, and resistance can cause difficulties. Series vs parallel circuits confuse many students.

• Nuclear physics – it involves particles you can't see and processes that seem counterintuitive. Radioactive decay, half-life calculations, and nuclear structure require careful understanding.

• Magnetism and electromagnetism – it involves invisible forces and rules that feel complicated. Understanding electromagnetic induction and transformers requires visualising motion and changing fields.

• Wave properties – abstract ideas like frequency, wavelength, and wave speed can feel challenging. The difference between transverse and longitudinal waves trips students up.

• Momentum and collisions – it requires careful mathematical work and understanding conservation principles.

The good news? Once these topics "click," they become much easier. The initial confusion is normal and temporary.

Should I Choose Triple Science If I Find Physics Hard?

You could take 3 separate IGCSE sciences, usually IGCSE Physics, IGCSE Chemistry and IGCSE Biology. This is often referred to as ‘triple science’.

You can also take combined science, where you gain two IGCSE grades and study all three sciences to a lesser extent. 

Or you could take the single IGCSE option, where you receive one IGCSE grade, but study all three science subjects even more narrowly.

Which option you choose depends on your future plans and current situation.

Choose Triple Science (including IGCSE Physics) if:

• You want to study Physics, Engineering, or related subjects at A-Level or university

• You need Physics for your career goals

• You're finding Physics challenging, but not impossible

• You're willing to put in extra effort to improve

Consider not taking Triple Science if:

• You genuinely dislike Physics, and it's causing significant stress

• Your career plans don't require Physics beyond IGCSE

• You're already overwhelmed with other subjects

• You'd perform better by focusing on subjects you enjoy and excel at

Remember that finding something difficult isn't a reason to quit—it's a reason to work smarter. Many students who initially struggled with Physics ended up doing well and even enjoying it.

Speak to your teacher about your concerns. They can give you personalised advice based on your performance and potential.

How Can I Improve If I'm Already Struggling with Physics?

If you're currently finding Physics tough, here's your action plan:

Identify specific problem areas. Don't just say "I'm bad at Physics." Pinpoint exactly what you don't understand. Is it electricity? Specific types of questions? Mathematical manipulation?

Go back to basics. Sometimes you're struggling with Topic 5 because you didn't fully understand Topic 2. Review earlier content to ensure you have solid foundations.

Practice deliberately. Don't just do random questions. Focus intensively on your weak areas until they improve. Use mark schemes to understand what makes a good answer.

Change your study method. Try videos, diagrams, flashcards, or explaining concepts aloud. Different approaches suit different learners.

Get help. Talk to your teacher during or after class. Consider getting a tutor, joining a study group, or using online resources. Sometimes one good explanation makes everything clear.

Be patient with yourself. Understanding Physics takes time. You're learning to think in new ways. Progress might feel slow, but consistency pays off.

Most importantly, don't suffer in silence. Asking for help is a sign of maturity, not weakness.

Final Thoughts

Let's return to where we started: Is IGCSE Physics hard?

Yes, it can be. IGCSE Physics requires you to think logically, apply mathematical skills, and understand abstract concepts. It's a subject that challenges most students at some point.

But here's what matters more: IGCSE Physics is manageable, success is common, and improvement is always possible.

Over 80% of students achieve Grade C or above (opens in a new tab), proving that the vast majority of students who put in the work get good results. You can absolutely be one of them.

What makes the biggest difference isn't natural ability or being "good at science." It's your approach, your effort, and your willingness to keep going when things feel difficult.

Use the right study strategies. Practice consistently with past papers. Ask for help when you need it. Break complex ideas down into manageable chunks. Stay curious about why things happen, not just memorising what happens.

Physics is supposed to be challenging—that's what makes it valuable. Employers and universities value Physics qualifications precisely because they demonstrate problem-solving skills, logical thinking, and perseverance.

You've got this. Start with one topic, master it, and build from there. Every student who succeeded in IGCSE Physics started exactly where you are now, wondering if they could do it.

The answer is yes. You can.

References

• Cambridge International Education: Cambridge IGCSE candidate grades June 2025 (opens in a new tab)

• Pearson: International GCSE (9-1) Specifications Grade Statistics (Provisional) International Only June 2025 (opens in a new tab)