Chemistry Advice

FutureNurseInfo · Nov 17, 2017

Hi there, sorry about your situation. let me cut to the chase: there are lots of study routines that many students use. However, not every study habit can work for same two students. You just have to find your unique way of studying. I believe that success in passing the course depends on 2 factors: the quality of the professor (and his/her attitude, time management skills, and organizational skills) and, of course, your desire to put in effort in studying and using appropriate study habits that work for you. I will assume that your professor is organized, and clear in his/her expectations and grading criteria. To study for exams you can try the following:

1. Ask the professor if study guide is available. If not make your own. Now that you have taken a few exams you know what their format is and what is likely to appear on the next exam. Having that in mind, create a 1-2 page study guide with important terms, concepts, diagrams, reactions etc.

2. Every day, try to spend at least 30 minutes going over the material of the previous lecture(s). You need to have that information internalized. This way you do not have to cram all of the material on the night before the exam.

3. Remember, your goal is not to memorize and then forget. You have to understand how A clicks with B and results in C. For example, you are studying acid-base neutralization. Read the passage and then stop to recall information in your own words. Make a quick sketch of what it looks like, a diagram, something visual.

4. Whenever you feel you are failing, do not wait till last minute to speak to the professor. Go and speak to him/her. Ask what you can do to improve your study habits. Is there extra credit available?

5. Finally, on the day of the exam, spend another 30 minutes to go over the notes. Breathe. Pop in a sweet drop to give you that glucose rush.

I hope this helps!

littleboyboo · Nov 27, 2017

I absolutely did not care for the chemistry course I had to take. It wasn't easy whatsoever, and the professor I had was kinda terrible. Anyway, I salvaged a C in that class, and plan on retaking it.

My first exam was an 84, and then a 94 on the second. However, I got sick in the semester and it threw me behind!

I've never heard anyone on here like the chemistry courses much. It's not so uncommon for ppl to make a low score on an exam or two in chemistry. Hang in there and study harder! Do the best you can!

xxstarrynitesxx · Nov 29, 2017

I actually really enjoyed chemistry! Are you struggling more with the concepts or doing the actual problems? FutureNurseInfo gave some incredible advice on how I would approach the concepts. Applying the concepts can be challenging for a number of people. I personally would recommend practicing problems. Familiarizing yourself with how certain problems are set up will help to build your confidence. If there was a formula, write it down each and every single time.

I would also recommend seeing if your school offers Tutorial Services (tutoring) or SI sessions. Reaching out to another student doing well in the class can also help or even finding a YouTube video. I am not sure how you are studying now, but keep working hard!

happiness_love · Nov 29, 2017

I'm currently taking chemistry right now ! It's so hard but you can do it! I would recommend to study no matter what. There is some concepts I don't understand but youtube is the way to go! You can also go on quizlet, there is so many helpful flashcards. Read your textbook and after your done write notes from textbook and powerpoints. I feel like reading the textbook and writing notes from powerpoint and textbook has helped me out so much! Do as many practice questions as you can! Goodluck !