During a particularly complex physics exam, which involved dealing with about two dozen different parameters, I encountered a problem focused on resonance in the context of frequency filtering. This problem involved coils and capacitors, components commonly used in electronic circuits.

When I saw the given values, I noticed a unique pattern where the effects of the coils and capacitors were effectively cancelling each other out. This observation allowed me to significantly simplify the problem. Instead of diving into complex calculations, I transformed one complicated problem into two simpler ones, making it much easier to solve.

Initially, the examiner was sceptical of my approach, as they expected a solution involving specific equations and laws. I had to argue my case, explaining that if just one of the given parameter values had been different, the pattern I observed wouldn’t have existed. The problem would indeed have required more complex calculations. Interestingly, it took me longer to explain it in words than to detect it.

After about 15 minutes of discussion, the examiner finally understood my reasoning and conceded. Ultimately, I was awarded the points for the problem, which was a satisfying conclusion to a challenging exam.