How to approach GAMSAT Physics Questions

In this tutorial, I break down a high-yield GAMSAT Section 3 problem that follows a mechanistic reasoning process — the exact format ACER uses to test your understanding of systems equilibrium.

We walk through a three-part structure:

1️⃣ Rules

Build your conceptual scaffold with the four fundamental vector variables in mechanics:

  • Displacement

  • Velocity

  • Acceleration

  • Time

2️⃣ Diagrams

Learn to draw and interpret Free Body Diagrams (FBDs) — the critical bridge between textual information and quantitative reasoning. We practice how to convert written descriptions into clean, labeled Free body diagrams.

3️⃣ Answering the Question

Apply reasoning to:

  • Identify missing variables by inferring relationships from your FBD

  • Select the appropriate mechanics equation that isolates a single unknown

  • Solve efficiently without overcomplicating

🎯 This scaffold mirrors how ACER rewards reasoning: not just rote application of formulas, but logical deduction built on structured diagram-based thinking.