Series and parallel paths — study worksheet

1. Read the core idea

Components in series share the same current, and their resistances add. Parallel branches have the same voltage across them. Adding a parallel conducting branch lowers the equivalent resistance of ideal positive resistors. Trace the junctions rather than judging the drawing’s physical arrangement; a diagram may bend wires without changing which components share a connection.

2. Trace the worked example

Two 4 Ω resistors in series total 8 Ω. Two 4 Ω resistors in parallel have an equivalent resistance of 2 Ω.

Write the steps or relationships that explain the result:

3. Use the method

Mark junctions, identify each path, and decide what stays equal before calculating.

Summarize the method in your own words, with a diagram or labeled units where useful:

4. Record a mistake to avoid

A component drawn beside another is not necessarily connected in parallel.

Describe how you will recognize and correct this mistake:

5. Review after practice

Use the mixed practice check linked in the hub. Record the skill you need to revisit and your next study step.