Inorganic chemistry: the study of structures and compounds of substances made from all elements, except carbon. Organic chemistry: the study of the compound of carbon. Physical (or theoretical) chemistry: the application of mathematical methods to chemical problems. Analytical chemistry: quantitatively and qualitatively analyzes chemical compounds. Biochemistry (or physiological chemistry): the study of chemical reactions within living cells and the chemical structures of living material.
This technique is known as a “Flipped” or “Reversed” classroom, and has proven useful in multiple fields.
Attend class regularly. As mundane as this can feel, regular attendance will ensure that you don’t miss the explanation of new topics. It’s easier to keep up with the class lessons than to catch up.
Discuss with your teacher or with your classmates if you have any problems with the chemistry topic. If you’re struggling to understand a concept, ask your instructor for study guides or worksheets.
This is especially important in the chemistry classroom. New concepts and equations will be built on those that you’ve covered earlier in the semester (or quarter), so it’s important that you understand ideas of chemistry. Having these written in your notes will help you remember. Pinning down the important points that your instructor has presented in a class period will help you to understand key topics and ideas.
Take advantage of your school’s study-hall period to review notes from chemistry. [6] X Research source You may find it easier to retain concepts when reading them from your own notes rather than from a textbook, since you will have already written the concepts in terms you understand.
When working problems, avoid referring to the answer key unless you’re utterly confused. Work problems on your own as much as possible. Study chemistry every day so that you retain as much of the information as possible. You will learn more and be more productive if you study chemistry for two hours each day, rather than 10 hours on Saturday.
Many students consider the chemical formulas and math equations to be the most challenging aspects of a chemistry course, so these are where you should focus your time. If you need to, brush up on: logarithms and simple algebra, fractions, percentages, and exponential numbers. [9] X Research source Try to make your chemistry homework as visual and concrete as possible. If you try to keep it all in your head, it’ll be trickier to understand. [10] X Expert Source Chris Hasegawa, PhDRetired Science Professor & Dean Expert Interview. 29 July 2021.
If you don’t have a copy of the periodic table, it’s available for free at many online chemistry websites. Always keep a copy of the periodic table next to you when you study chemistry. [13] X Expert Source Chris Hasegawa, PhDRetired Science Professor & Dean Expert Interview. 29 July 2021.
Practice drawing any diagrams in your lectures, then label them. Although it may feel repetitive at first, this can help you understand the structure of chemicals. This may also help you memorize information that will come up on a test.
Be attentive to your studying. Work in an environment with as few distractions as possible. Shut off the TV, put away food and snacks, and work in quiet, distraction-free space.
Solve sample tests or chemistry questions. This will make you more comfortable with tackling genuine test questions, and will also increase your chemistry confidence. Ask your instructor for sample tests, or search online for “sample chemistry test questions,” and specify your grade level.
Flashcards are a helpful way to commit these symbols and terms to memory. Review these flashcards multiple times throughout a week, and a few times a day when a test is upcoming. [17] X Research source
