Problem solving

One of the hardest parts of physics is not solving a problem - it's setting up the problem to solve in the first place. Because each question you face will be different, it can be difficult to list generic steps you need to follow. In general, try this out: 

D - Draw a diagram of the scenario. Include a coordinate frame with directions for x and y.
R - Relevant equations. Based on what's given and what's needed, pick a useful equation
S - Solve for an unknown variable. This could take multiple steps for complicated problems.
I - Insert known values (if the problem you're solving is numerical - not always the case for AP)
C - Compute a solution (again, if the solution needs to be numerical)
K - Kick back and enjoy your success. 

What if we encounter a problem where the acceleration is NOT constant? Odds are, they'll give you position, velocity, or acceleration as a FUNCTION of time. You'd need to apply derivatives (or, as we'll do later in the semester, anti-derivatives) to find these other factors as a factor of time as well. See the video below for a quick example: