Paper 2 in IB Physics HL is topical by design: each long question spans one main theme (e.g., gravitational fields + orbital motion). Practicing with a topic bank that includes (8–12 marks) trains the stamina and structured writing needed.
The benefits of using an IB Physics HL question bank are numerous:
Their "Solve with Me" videos are excellent for visual learners struggling with complex diagrams. 3. Pestle (Free)
Excellent for breaking down questions by specific syllabus points.
After two years of HL Physics, here is my ranking of the best question banks available, where to find them, and how to use them. ib physics hl question bank by topic top
: Exceptional for its focus on video explanations, offering over 2,000 walkthroughs for past paper questions (May 2016–2024). Its question bank is specifically aligned with the new 2025 syllabus themes.
While known for IA ideas, their resources offer strong conceptual breakdowns.
Strengths
Heavy on theory and specific formulas. Don't let the abstract nature of the photoelectric effect trip you up. How to Use a Question Bank Effectively Paper 2 in IB Physics HL is topical
This topic turns classical physics on its head. Topical practice focuses on radioactivity, binding energy, and Feynman diagrams. The HL extension introduces the photoelectric effect, Bohr’s atomic model, wave-particle duality, and the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. How to Use an IB Physics HL Question Bank Effectively
Calculating torque, rotational equilibrium, and moment of inertia (HL exclusive). Relativity:
Torque, moment of inertia, and rotational dynamics.
Transverse vs. longitudinal waves and the EM spectrum. : Exceptional for its focus on video explanations,
Best for: On-the-go drilling. OSC’s app-based question bank is excellent for the 15 minutes between classes. Their HL Astrophysics (Option D, now folded into standard syllabus) questions are particularly strong for Paper 3 calculations.
Kinematics, forces, work/energy/power, momentum.
A is not a static archive but an adaptive learning environment. Its architecture respects cognitive load theory, mirrors the IB's own syllabus weighting, and diagnostically targets weak sub-topics. For educators, it enables formative assessment at a granular level; for students, it replaces frustration with structured progression.
While sitting a full 2024 past paper is great for timing, it’s a poor way to learn. If you struggle with Topic 12: Quantum and Nuclear Physics , seeing one question every hour isn't going to fix the gap in your knowledge.
How to Step-by-Step Optimize Your Revision with a Question Bank