General Chemistry Hints for Success

Attend Class

• Learn material at a consistent, gradual pace.
• Review material following lecture.
• Expect lecture to introduce and clarify concepts.

Do Suggested Problems

• Spend at least 30 minutes on chemistry each day.
• Limit the use of the answer key.
• Relate each problem to specific concepts. Why is the answer expected?
• Expect to spend five or more hours per week solving problems.

Seek Help Early!

• Ask questions!
• If a concept is unclear ask the instructor for help immediately
• Don't wait until the night before the exam to try to clarify concepts.

Prepare for Exams

• Work additional problems.
• Test your understanding:
  • Work problems backwards; start with the answer and find the information originally given.
  • Write detailed solutions for problems; describe the rationale for each step in words.
  • Explain problem solutions to a partner.
  • Relate problem solutions to general concepts.

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