When you come across a compound, draw the structure for it. Read through the notes before class every day so that you will know what is coming up.
Getting extra help from a one-on-one tutor can also be beneficial if you are really struggling.
You don’t have to number the carbons for proper labeling, just number them so you know how many there are and you can put them in the correct position in the products.
As the pKa of an acid increases, the stability of the conjugate base increases. As the polarity of a molecule increases, the boiling point increases. When you increase the chain length of a hydrocarbon, the boiling point increases.
The modeling kit helps you avoid mistakes when answering questions on exams and homework.
Once you have identified the functional groups in the reaction, work the problem backwards (from product to reactant) using the maps as a guide.
Do a set of practice problems from your book every day to keep up with the material.
Once you have mastered the vocabulary, make new flashcards for reactions and structures.
Choose study partners that learn at the same rate you do. If the group is too fast or too slow for you, it won’t be as beneficial.
While this may not work for everyone, it is good to try it out and see if it helps you think ideas through properly before writing them down.
Break up your studying into large and small blocks of time. If you only have ten minutes, flip through some flashcards. If you have an hour or two, do practice problems.
If something you wrote during class doesn’t make sense, attend office hours to ask for clarification. Ask your professor for permission to record class lectures so you can listen to them again if you are having difficulty.
Try to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep each night. Make time for exercise, even if it’s just a walk with a friend. Make an effort to eat more fruits and vegetables and stay away from sodas and excess caffeine.
Make sure you have plenty of space to spread out. Keep your study space stocked with everything you will need (paper, calculator, scissors, snacks, etc. ) so you won’t have to go hunting and get distracted.
