Solve [a problem] twice:
with forces and kinematics,
then with energy
conservation. Then how do I
recognise which approach
will be shorter next time?

Same Problem, Forces Then Energy

Two routes to the same answer, plus how to pick one next time.

Prompt

Solve [a physics problem] twice: once with forces and kinematics, once with energy conservation. Then tell me how to recognise, in future problems, which approach will be shorter.