This memory aid covers Memory Aid — ETCP within The Water Cycle for GCSE Biology. Topic 6: The Water Cycle It is section 8 of 11 in this topic. Use it for quick recall, then test yourself straight afterwards so the memory aid becomes usable in an answer.
🧠 Memory Aid — ETCP
Remember the four key stages of the water cycle using the phrase:
"Every Tuesday Creates Puddles"
- E — Evaporation (water → vapour, from oceans and lakes)
- T — Transpiration (water → vapour, from plant leaves)
- C — Condensation (vapour → droplets, forming clouds)
- P — Precipitation (droplets → rain/snow, falling to earth)
Then add percolation and run-off for the return journey of water to the sea.
Practice questions for The Water Cycle
What is the water cycle?
Explain the role of transpiration in the water cycle.
Quick recall flashcards
What is evaporation in the water cycle?
The sun's energy heats liquid water on the surface of oceans, lakes and rivers.
Water molecules gain enough energy to escape as water vapour (an invisible gas) and rise into the atmosphere.
What is the water cycle?
The continuous movement of water between oceans, atmosphere, land and living organisms.
Driven by solar energy. Water is recycled — never created or destroyed.