Six-mark physics questions: how to structure an explanation

Why good students score badly

Students write what they know instead of what is asked. They repeat one idea in three different sentences — which earns one mark, once. They explain brilliantly but skip the 'obvious' step, and the obvious step was on the checklist. Length is not the goal; coverage is.

The formula

Before writing, plan the principles, evidence or steps the question needs. Put explanations in a logical order, using “because” and “therefore” when the relationship is causal. Name quantities clearly so that the reader knows what is increasing or decreasing. Use the mark allocation to judge depth, without forcing one sentence per mark.

After writing, check that each statement is relevant and scientifically correct. Remove contradictions and repeated ideas. If the question asks for a comparison, address both cases; if it asks for evaluation, use the evidence and explain the limitations.

Make the physics clear, connect the reasoning and answer the question asked.

Train it on past papers

Choose a small set of longer questions from your own board. Plan an answer, write it and compare it with the specific scheme. Note missing physics, unsupported conclusions and unclear links. Then attempt another question on the same topic in a different context to check that the reasoning transfers.