The study of chemistry, like that of other scientific subjects in which mathematics is widely used, requires commitment and effort. It is necessary to learn equations, formulas and graphs; some concepts need to be learned by heart, while others require a deep understanding of chemical structures and mathematical equations. To excel, you need to develop good study habits, pay attention during lectures and lab exercises, as well as do your homework. Chemistry requires a lot of patience, enthusiasm and, above all, a good relationship with matter.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Maximizing Lesson Profit
Step 1. Understand the discipline you are studying
Chemistry is generally divided into five broad categories, each of which includes specific disciplines and provides for particular study methods. If you understand what field you are studying and what it means, you have a solid foundation and are ready to learn all the ins and outs. The five categories are:
- Inorganic chemistry: study of the structures and compounds of substances created by all elements except carbon;
- Organic chemistry: the study of carbon compounds;
- Physical chemistry: the application of mathematical methods to chemistry problems;
- Analytical chemistry: quantitative and qualitative analysis of chemical compounds;
- Biochemistry: the study of the chemical reactions that take place inside living cells and the chemical structures of living matter.
Step 2. Read the topic of the lesson before going to class
In this way, you become more familiar with the subject and during the teacher's explanations you can better understand the doubts that arise from reading. By reading the material (such as textbook chapters or handouts) you can familiarize yourself with the topics in advance.
This "reverse" technique has proved useful in many fields
Step 3. Listen to the teacher carefully
By following it carefully it should be easier to understand the subject, since the teacher's job is to explain and clarify the information; do not take this opportunity for granted, but take advantage of it by actively concentrating to learn every detail.
Attend classes regularly. As trivial as it may seem, introducing yourself to class allows you not to miss any explanation of the new topics; it is easier to keep up the pace by following the lessons than it is to catch up
Step 4. Ask questions
Don't hesitate to discuss your doubts during the lesson if you don't understand some passage, equation or topic. No question is too trivial to ask; if you feel confused during the lesson, your classmates are likely to have the same problem.
- If you are having trouble studying something, talk to your teacher or classmates about it.
- If you can't understand a concept, ask the teacher for some handouts or notes.
Step 5. Take lots of notes
You can imagine writing the "summary" of the lesson: what the teacher said, the new topics or equations that were presented, what the relevant questions were and their answers.
- These details are especially important in chemistry classes. The new concepts and equations develop on those previously studied, it is therefore important to understand the matter progressively; written notes help you remember them.
- By pinning down the highlights that the teacher presented in class on paper, you can better understand the topics and concepts.
Step 6. Review your notes
You can review them as you do your homework after class. It is best to reorganize them within a short time; if you wait for the weekend to do it, you may forget some steps.
- Take advantage of the "down time" between lessons to review chemistry notes.
- It may be easier to internalize concepts when you read them from your notes than in the textbook, as you have already written them in words you understand.
Part 2 of 3: Establishing Productive Homework Habits
Step 1. Reread the textbook
Before you try your hand at chemistry problems and homework, read again the chapters that cover the topics covered in class; in this way, you strengthen the understanding of the concepts and save time during the exercises.
- When trying to solve problems, avoid peeking at solutions, unless you are completely "on the high seas"; try to get the job done on your own.
- Study chemistry every day to internalize information as much as possible; if you dedicate a couple of hours a day to the subject, you can learn more and more productively than "slaving" for ten hours on Saturdays alone.
Step 2. Make an effort to understand homework problems
This process takes time, but it is much more important than taking shortcuts to reach the solution; pay particular attention to the mathematics, chemical formulas and equations.
Many students believe that mathematical formulas and equations are the most complicated part of the chemistry course, so they are the aspects you need to focus on the most; if necessary, review logarithms and basic algebra, fractions, percentages and powers
Step 3. Get the most up-to-date version of the modern periodic table
Typically, professors provide a copy, but if you don't ask for it, you may not get it. It is an indispensable support, the periodic table is a complex method of representing the vital information of chemistry; learn to read it, keep it in your textbook and in your notes.
If you don't have a copy, you can download and print it for free from many chemistry websites
Step 4. Address each problem gradually
Many students skip some chemistry problems and math equations, as they take some time; however, they are also the most important part of getting good grades in this matter. Learn from the mistakes you've made in the past with previous problems and don't move on to a new exercise until you've done the first one correctly.
Practice drawing each lesson chart and setting a correct legend. While it may seem repetitive, it helps you understand the structure of chemical compounds, as well as allowing you to memorize incoming test information
Part 3 of 3: Preparing for Class Assignments and Exams
Step 1. Study the topic of the class assignment
At the end of each month (or at the end of each section of the chemistry course) you should study all the material explained in that time frame; if it helps, you can study with friends and analyze the answers to possible questions together.
Pay attention to the study. Try to focus in an environment with as few distractions as possible; turn off the TV, put away food and snacks, keep the room quiet and peaceful
Step 2. Make sure you understand the basic concepts
To get good grades on exams and homework, you need to master the basics of the subject to solve the most complex problems when they arise. Before a task, make sure you understand the meaning of certain numbers and are familiar with the periodic table of elements, names and chemical symbols.
Solve problems or questions in exam simulations. This way, you feel more confident when facing the actual class test, as well as mastering the subject better. Ask the professor to provide you with mock exams or do online research specifying the level of the course
Step 3. Write and memorize the symbols and terminology of chemistry
Just as with many other science subjects, some academic aspects of chemistry must be remembered by heart, especially before an exam; write the definitions of terms, chemical symbols, names and properties of the 30-40 most common elements.
Flashcards are a very useful means of becoming familiar with these aspects of the subject; reread them many times throughout the week and several times a day as the exam approaches
Advice
- To test your knowledge of chemistry, try explaining what you have learned to someone who is not in your class; if you can be clear and convey the concepts, you probably master the subject.
- Although not everyone is good for chemistry, if you like the subject you may have less difficulty.
- Regardless of the area of chemistry you want to learn and get good grades for, you must respect the subject and prepare with academic zeal.
