The GRE physics subject test is one of 6 GRE subject tests that you can take. GRE subject tests are different from the general test. These are specialized tests that measure your ability to understand a given subject’s fundamental principles and apply these principles to solve problems.
The contents of the Physics GRE test are derived from the first three years of undergraduate physics. Students are tested on classical mechanics, electromagnetism, optics and wave phenomena, thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, quantum mechanics, etc.
The format of the test is multiple-choice with approximately 100 questions. Questions can include diagrams, graphs, experimental data, and descriptions of physical situations.
Since GRE subject tests are not as common as the general test, finding test prep material can be challenging. Hence, in this article, I will be listing the 10 best Physics books you can use to prepare for your GRE physics test.
In this Article
- 1. Conquering the Physics GRE
- 2. Schaum’s 3,000 Solved Problems in Physics
- 3. Fundamentals of Physics
- 4. Introduction to Special Relativity
- 5. Classical Electromagnetism
- 6. Sears and Zemansky’s University Physics
- 7. University of Chicago Graduate Problems in Physics with Solutions
- 8. Sterling Test Prep Physics GRE Practice Questions
- 9. Princeton Problems in Physics with Solutions
- 10. GRE Physics w/ CD by REA
1. Conquering the Physics GRE
Conquering the Physics GRE by Yoni Kahn is a great starting book for your GRE physics prep. It contains a complete review of all the topics that are tested on the Physics GRE. You will find various tips and tricks to help solve problems quickly. The book also includes 3 full-length practice tests.
Key Features:
- Complete review of all the GRE Physics topics.
- Numerous tips, strategies, and tricks to help solve questions more quickly.
- Walk-through of the structure and format of the test.
- 3 full-length GRE physics practice tests.
Get it here.
2. Schaum’s 3,000 Solved Problems in Physics
This book is perfect after you are done with your initial preparation. It contains 3000 solved problems with detailed step-by-step solutions. The book contains clear diagrams and illustrations for better understanding. Almost all of the GRE physics topics are covered in this book.
Key Features:
- 3,000 solved problems
- Problems from every area of physics
- Clear diagrams and illustrations
- Comprehensive index
- Appropriate for all high school and undergraduate physics courses
- Step-by-step solutions to problems
- Thousands of practice problems with a wealth of questions on each topic
Get it here.
3. Fundamentals of Physics
Fundamentals of Physics by David Halliday is a timeless classic tried and tested for over 30 years. You will find clear explanations of fundamental physics concepts coupled with solved problems.
Key Features:
- Problem-solving tactics are provided to help the reader solve problems and avoid common errors.
- This new edition features several thousand ends of chapter problems rewritten to streamline both the presentations and answers.
- Chapter Puzzlers open each chapter with an intriguing application or question explained or answered in the chapter.
- Complete coverage of GRE Physics topics.
Get it here.
4. Introduction to Special Relativity
This is not an all-in-one Physics book but instead an in-depth study of special relativity, which is tested on GRE physics. This is a great book to learn undergrad-level special relativity concepts.
Key Features:
- Concise and well-written explanation of one of the most influential theories in modern physics.
- Replete with examples that make it especially suitable for self-study.
- Topics include classical relativity and the relativity postulate, time dilation, the twin paradox, momentum and energy, particles of zero mass, electric and magnetic fields and forces, and more.
- Complete coverage of all special relativity concepts tested on GRE physics.
Get it here.
5. Classical Electromagnetism
Nearly 20% of GRE Physics topics are taken from electromagnetism, and there is no better book than classical electromagnetism by Jerrold Franklin to grasp the topics.
Key Features:
- It contains all GRE physics topics as outlined on ETS’ website, i.e., Lorentz force, induction, Maxwell’s equations, electromagnetic waves, AC circuits, etc.
- Text advances from the basic laws of electricity and magnetism to classical electromagnetism in a quantum world.
- Focuses on core concepts and related aspects of maths and physics.
- Clear diagrams and illustrations where needed.
Get it here.
6. Sears and Zemansky’s University Physics
University Physics by Young and Freedman is a perfect resource if you want to brush up on all of your undergrad physics from a single source. It contains complete coverage of all the topics that are tested on GRE physics.
Key Features:
- Complete coverage of all GRE physics topics.
- Ideal for learning physics concepts from scratch.
- Clear and detailed explanations coupled with solved problems.
- Colorful illustrations and diagrams for better learning.
Get it here.
7. University of Chicago Graduate Problems in Physics with Solutions
If you want a practical understanding of GRE physics in problem-solving, this is the ideal book. Keep in mind that this book is suitable for those who already understand all the different physics topics taught at the undergrad level.
Key Features:
- Covers a broad range of topics, from simple mechanics to nuclear physics.
- Unlike many examination questions, the problems presented are intriguing ones, and physical concepts are emphasized in the solutions.
- Complete coverage of GRE Physics topics.
- Clear and detailed answer explanations.
Get it here.
8. Sterling Test Prep Physics GRE Practice Questions
Sterling Test Prep GRE Physics offers more than 1300 high yield physics practice questions with detailed explanations. This is a great practice book with key formulas and equations outlined for each topic.
Key Features:
- 12 diagnostic tests to help you identify your strengths and weaknesses to optimize your preparation strategy.
- Topical practice question sets to drill down on each topic from a variety of angles and formula applications.
- Test-taking strategies to maximize your performance on the test day.
- Sheets of formulae, equations, variables, and units to know for each topic.
- 1,335 high yield physics practice questions.
Get it here.
9. Princeton Problems in Physics with Solutions
Princeton Problems in Physics is an ideal book for grasping GRE physics concepts through solved problems. All problems are selected based on usefulness, interest, and originality. It contains complete coverage of all the various GRE.
Key Features:
- Complete coverage of GRE physics topics.
- 100s of useful problems with detailed step-by-step solutions.
- Problems have been culled from the physics department’s preliminary and general examinations at Princeton University for its graduate program.
- Clear diagrams for each problem for better understanding.
Get it here.
10. GRE Physics w/ CD by REA
This book contains a thorough review of all the GRE Physics topics tested on the exam. Each chapter contains key examples that help reinforce concepts. The book comes with 4 full-length GRE Physics practice tests.
Key Features:
- Focused chapter reviews cover all the information tested on the GRE Physics exam.
- Each review chapter contains examples to reinforce key concepts.
- The book includes four full-length practice tests based on the most recent GRE Physics exam.
- Each test contains every type of question that can be expected on the GRE.
Get it here.