Study Tips for Chemistry

You will find that nearly all of the study skills developed in general chemistry are just as applicable in organic: you still have to put in the time for concepts to marinate, you have to dig deep in problems, and you have to be on constant vigilance to ask “why”. However, in organic chemistry, there is a new visual component to take into account: it is essential to begin viewing molecules three dimensionally (instead of as two dimensional lines and letters on paper), since the 3D structure greatly impacts the actual chemistry. To start visualizing these structures use a model kit to build molecules every time you do organic chemistry (reading, practice problems, and so on). Bring the model kit to section. Your models will reveal important properties of the molecules, like the spatial relationships between different atoms, or how easily a bond can rotate. Keep the model kit on you at all times and use it!

Above all, keeping trying!! Everyone learns at different speeds and in different ways. There are lots of resources here for you because we know you can do it with the right tools. If you don’t know where to start just ask – meet with one of the course TAs, tutors or professors. We are all here to help YOU SUCCEED!