Start with the first 3 sections of the Unit 1 one-page cheatsheet below. The full sheet is a PDF you can print.
| Scalar | Vector |
|---|---|
| Magnitude only | Magnitude + direction |
| Distance, speed | Displacement, velocity, acceleration, position |
| No sign needed | Arrow notation: v; sign shows direction in 1D |
In one dimension: Sign (+ or −) completely describes direction. Vector notation not required for components along an axis.
Vector sum rule: Opposite directions = opposite signs.
Displacement: Δx = x − x₀
Average velocity: vavg = Δx/Δt
Average acceleration: aavg = Δv/Δt
Key idea: Acceleration occurs when magnitude or direction of velocity changes.
Instantaneous values: Calculate average over very small time interval to approximate instantaneous velocity or acceleration.
Object model: Treat object as point; ignore size, shape, internal structure.
vx = vx0 + axt
x = x₀ + vx0t + ½axt²
vx² = vx0² + 2ax(x − x₀)
Use for: Linear motion in one dimension with constant acceleration.
Gravity near Earth: ag = g ≈ 10 m/s² (downward).
Choosing equations: Pick the equation that contains the three known quantities and the one unknown.
6 more sections are on the one-page PDF:
Reading Motion Graphs
Reference Frames & Relative Motion
Two-Dimensional Motion & Components
Motion Representations
Common Problem-Solving Moves
Key Distinctions
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Unit 1: Kinematics on one page, aligned to the 2026-2027 course. Made and checked by the Fiveable Content Team.
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Preview: Standard
1.1 Scalars and Vectors in One Dimension
Standard
1.5 Vectors and Motion in Two Dimensions
Formula sheet
1.5 Vectors and Motion in Two Dimensions
Standard
Each topic has a full study guide. See the whole unit.