When figuring out acceleration, students sometimes make a few important mistakes. Here’s a list of what to watch out for:

1. Not Thinking About Direction: Acceleration has direction. This means if something speeds up and then slows down, it can have both positive and negative acceleration.

2. Using the Wrong Formula: Make sure to use the right formula. It looks like this:
   $a = \frac{\Delta v}{\Delta t}$
   Here, $\Delta v$ means the change in speed, and $\Delta t$ is the time it takes for that change.

3. Forgetting About Units: Always double-check your units! Acceleration is usually measured in meters per second squared (m/s²). So, remember to convert your measurements if needed.

By keeping these tips in mind, students can avoid making common mistakes and confidently calculate acceleration!