Advice
1. If you are in any doubt as to whether to apply to Oxford then I suggest you apply.
If you enjoy your subject, are adept at it and want to be stretched at one of the world's finest universities then I recommend you apply. Oxford is not 'for' any particular type of person. All that matters is academic ability and the right attitude towards your subject.
2. Don't be put off by the PAT
In recent years, the Physics Aptitude Test has become even more challenging and there are very few exams aimed at students of school age which are more difficult than it. However, the PAT has to be challenging in order to distinguish between the most able students and some questions are only answered correctly by a handful of candidates, so if you find it difficult then you are not alone. Almost all questions can be unlocked with a few simple ideas and some perseverance. It is also worth noting that up until now you are used to gaining very high percentages in exams and tests. For the PAT and degree exams 50% is a real achievement and 75% is an excellent mark.
3. Use solutions properly
Try to resist consulting a solution too soon. Ideally you should only do this after a long time, preferably with a break at some point. Also try to be sure that the source of the solution is trustworthy, treat it sceptically and make sure you understand every step. Not all solutions presented may even be correct!
4. Start your preparation early and don't cram.
The optimal time to start preparing is as soon as you decide to apply. Try to finish your preparation in good time and avoid working late the night before the test. This may have worked for GCSEs but the PAT is more competitive and you will need to be focused to achieve your potential. If you would like to learn with me please contact me to formulate a plan. I am likely to recommend a useful strategy which can be implemented immediately.
5. Ask your teachers to re-order their lessons to cover relevant topics before the PAT.
Most teachers would be sympathetic to this request and it shouldn't inconvenience them too much.
1. If you are in any doubt as to whether to apply to Oxford then I suggest you apply.
If you enjoy your subject, are adept at it and want to be stretched at one of the world's finest universities then I recommend you apply. Oxford is not 'for' any particular type of person. All that matters is academic ability and the right attitude towards your subject.
2. Don't be put off by the PAT
In recent years, the Physics Aptitude Test has become even more challenging and there are very few exams aimed at students of school age which are more difficult than it. However, the PAT has to be challenging in order to distinguish between the most able students and some questions are only answered correctly by a handful of candidates, so if you find it difficult then you are not alone. Almost all questions can be unlocked with a few simple ideas and some perseverance. It is also worth noting that up until now you are used to gaining very high percentages in exams and tests. For the PAT and degree exams 50% is a real achievement and 75% is an excellent mark.
3. Use solutions properly
Try to resist consulting a solution too soon. Ideally you should only do this after a long time, preferably with a break at some point. Also try to be sure that the source of the solution is trustworthy, treat it sceptically and make sure you understand every step. Not all solutions presented may even be correct!
4. Start your preparation early and don't cram.
The optimal time to start preparing is as soon as you decide to apply. Try to finish your preparation in good time and avoid working late the night before the test. This may have worked for GCSEs but the PAT is more competitive and you will need to be focused to achieve your potential. If you would like to learn with me please contact me to formulate a plan. I am likely to recommend a useful strategy which can be implemented immediately.
5. Ask your teachers to re-order their lessons to cover relevant topics before the PAT.
Most teachers would be sympathetic to this request and it shouldn't inconvenience them too much.