Knowledge of chemistry is essential to better understand other scientific disciplines. Chemistry is commonly known as central science because it overlaps other sciences. However, the study of chemistry is different compared to the study of Biology for example. A memorization of the concept without understanding the concept will not work. The following steps are given as a chemistry study guide or guidelines that you must keep in mind when studying chemistry. This does not matter if is general chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, analytical chemistry or any other sub-branch of chemistry. This is very useful for students enrolled in AP-chemistry.
1) Make sure you take time to read the concept and understand it: example learning the concept of naming organic compounds, you will need to learn the rules step- by- step, including exceptions if any.
2) Review each example that is used to illustrate the concept. This is required in building a solid foundation especially if you are studying organic chemistry.
3) Develop a habit of re-writing each example yourself whether it is chemical formulas, calculations or chemical equations or chemical reactions.
4) Leave or your notes aside and move to practice problems or exercises which could be found at the end of the section or end of the chapter if your instructor or tutor is using a chemistry textbook.
5) Now you should be ready to combine both, your class notes and exercises whichever needs clarifications and remember, for every hour chemistry lecture class hour you will need to spend at least two for study.
6) Work in group or with the help of a chemistry tutor if you can. There are chemistry study help centers to assist you.
7) Study chemistry frequently with chemistry tutor, chemistry tutorials or with any chemistry study help in order to keep all concepts fresh as this will give you more motivation to learn more.
What not to do:
- Do not start practice sample without reading and understanding the concept.
- Do not leave your notes for last minute study
- Do not study all alone and by yourself
- Do not focus your study on reading without any practice.
- Do not try to memorize without understanding