Best A-level Physics Textbooks (2024)

There are a lot of great A-Level physics textbooks out there for students. These books are designed to break down the toughest of topics with simple and relatable explanations. 

If you find it difficult to flow with course textbooks or materials because they are quite wordy or do not provide enough examples, you might want to switch to any of these A-Level physics textbooks.

best a-level physics textbooks

Best A-Level Physics Textbooks: Top 7 Picks

We have compiled a list of 7 outstanding A-Level Physics textbooks for you. These books have a track record of going straight to the point and making physics topics an enjoyable ride for A-Level students.

They are also great at preparing or boosting your confidence ahead of any board examination.

1. Physics (MasteringPhysics)

 

MasteringPhysics’ Physics is the foundation you need if you wish to understand physics and its real-world applications. The problem-solving masterpiece is friendly-toned and simplifies complex concepts with a wide range of examples.

These carefully illustrated examples are designed to prepare you for the homework and assessment section. Other latest features in the textbook include learning aids such as big ideas (a quick highlight of each chapter) and real-world applications (provides the necessary logic and reasoning to solve problems).

MasteringPhysics is a role model when it comes to online homework or assessment tailored to engage students during and after lectures. Its content is effective and provides feedback that allows instructors to assess student comprehension and misconceptions.

The book is designed to accommodate all types of students, making learning processes a personal journey. In other words, you can determine if you are ready for your final exam depending on what your average score says per chapter. Purchase both the physical and eBook versions of this text to enjoy anytime access.

  • Author: James S. Walker
  • Publisher: Pearson
  • Current Edition: 5th edition (January 14, 2016)
  • Pages: 1248 Pages

2. AQA A-Level Physics Yr 1 & 2 Student Book

 

AQA A-Level Physics offers both basic and optional topics using in-depth notes, diagrams, photographs, examples and tips. Every chapter is accompanied by practice (exam-type) questions with answers at the back and a summary section.

The unbeatable student guide also provides proper guidance on practical skills students need to succeed in their final exams. Bonus features include a free kindle edition.

Please note that you will only have access to this online copy after purchasing a hardcover or paperback. The kindle copy gives you access to read the entire book on your tablet or laptop. Once the book arrives, check the cover for a unique code. This code is your pass to full-time access, do not misplace it.

  • Author: AQA (Exam Board)
  • Publisher: Coordination Group Publication Ltd
  • Current Edition: 1st edition (September 30, 2020)
  • Pages: 722 Pages

3. Cambridge IGCSE® Physics Coursebook with CD-ROM (Cambridge International IGCSE)

 

The Cambridge IGCSE Physics Coursebook is an all-in-one A-level Physics textbook. It contains all the topics in the IGCSE Physics syllabus and takes you on the journey to completion like a toddler. Its author, David Sang, has over 100 secondary textbooks to his name. He has taught physics at various levels but now devotes his time to writing textbooks and disseminating knowledge via the media.

This book comes with a CD-ROM and practical activity suggestions designed to improve your experiment ethics. The evergreen series also contains study tips, exam-style questions (and answers), summaries and practice material that can help you prepare for your final examination.

Please note that the answers to the questions in this coursebook can only be found on the CD-ROM. Try and back it up on your PC or tablet.

  • Author: David Sang
  • Publisher:‎ Cambridge University Press
  • Current Edition: 2nd edition (September 15, 2014)
  • Pages: 288 Pages

4. A-Level Physics A for OCR Student Book

 

This book is very direct and it focuses only on curriculum topics. It is the support you need if you wish to understand the back and forth of linear courses and beyond.

Unlike most specialized A-Level Physics textbooks, this book comes with user-friendly digital support. This support provides links to multiple-choice (exam-type) questions and answers you need to develop knowledge and confidence.

It is also a great resource for personal studies, checklist tracking, summary and practical preparations. All you need to enjoy this valuable piece is determination and basic internet operating skills.

  • Author: Graham Bone, Nigel Sanders, Gurinder Chadha
  • Publisher: Oxford University Press
  • Current Edition: UK edition (July 2, 2015)
  • Pages: 656 Pages

5. Cambridge International AS and A Level Physics Coursebook with CD-ROM (Cambridge International Examinations)

 

This edition is fully revised and contains topics in line with the A-Level syllabus. The coursebook provides students with the knowledge and skills needed for their examinations. Each chapter is written with a friendly tone and is beautifully colored to aid quick comprehension.

Endorsed by the Cambridge International Examination body, the book contains self-assessment questions that make it easy for learners to track their progress and prepare adequately for their examination. After reading and understanding each chapter of this book, you should be able to differentiate AS content from A-Level content at a glance.

  • Author: David Sang, Graham Jones, Gurinder Chadha
  • Publisher: Cambridge University Press
  • Current Edition: 2nd edition (September 15, 2014)
  • Pages: 574 Pages 

6. Calculations for A-Level Physics

 

This book is the revised version of the best-selling and renowned physics calculation textbook. It contains professional explanations, simplified examples and loads of examination questions and answers.

The first few chapters of this book simplify major topics like mechanics, matter, optics and waves by dividing them into subsections. The latter part discusses advanced topics such as electricity and magnetism and atomic and nuclear physics.

Written by two popular authors T.L Rowe and J.F Rounce, this book is regarded as one of the most simplified and content-rich resources in the world of physics. If what you need is backup material for your course textbooks, this is a great choice.

  • Author: T.L Lowe, J.F Rounce
  • Publisher: Oxford University Press
  • Current Edition: 4th edition (November 1, 2014)
  • Pages: 328 Pages

7. A-Level Physics For AQA Revision Guide

 

This book is a guide designed to provide you with the details of all the topics you need to study to do well in your exams. The revision text is packed with engaging summary and practice materials to keep you focused and build your confidence before you write your exam.

It also comes with exam-style questions designed to test your knowledge and track improvement. Written by Jim Breithaupt, this guide has enjoyed huge success in many academic markets (UK, Caribbean and other globally recognized schools).

  • Author: Jim Breithaupt 
  • Publisher: Oxford Secondary 
  • Current Edition: 1st edition (April 27, 2017)
  • Pages: 280 Pages