Learning chemistry requires both the assimilation of many new concepts and the development of analytical skills. As you progress through the chemistry course, it is important that you acquire good study habits to facilitate the learning process Chemistry WordPress Blog. I suggest the following ideas to be successful in the study of chemistry:
Don’t be late! In the study of chemistry, new topics are based on previous knowledge. If you fall behind in reading and solving problems, you will have problems dealing with the following topics, as all studying is useless if you only study the day before the evaluation.
Focus. The amount of information you will receive in the chemistry course will sometimes seem overwhelming and complicated. It is very important to recognize the concepts and skills that are especially important. Pay close attention to the skills highlighted in the sample exercises. Take note of the phrases or guidelines that seem important to you or that the teacher emphasizes.
Take notes during class. Your notes will be a clear and concise record of the material your teacher considers most important. Use the notes that you can find in textbooks, it is the best way for you to realize what material should be studied.
Briefly read the topics before they are presented in class. Having prior knowledge of a topic before class will allow you to take better notes. First read the introduction and summary, and then do a quick read of the chapter in your textbook, this way you can ask the teacher your biggest questions and complement your learning. Avoid the idea that you have to learn and understand everything the first time.
After class, carefully read the topics covered in class. You will likely need to read the assigned material more than once to master it. As you read, pay attention to the concepts presented and their application in the practice exercises. Once you feel that you understand the practice exercises, repeat them as many times as necessary, the more you practice the same exercise the less doubts you will have and it will be useful for similar exercises. In particular, do not succumb to the temptation of looking at the solutions manual (if you have access to one) before you have made a sincere effort to solve the exercise on your own. If you get really stuck on an exercise, ask your teacher, TA, or another student for help. Spending more than 20 minutes on a single exercise is rarely productive, unless you know that its degree of difficulty is exceptional.
The key is to work hard, study effectively, and take advantage of the tools available, including this book. The intention is to help you learn more about the world of chemistry and understand why it is the central science.
