1 answer
Madison
Student
West Lafayette, Indiana
1
Question
Asked
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How to study for gen chem tests and overall make the material make sense?
Hi, I'm currently a freshman studying neurobiology and right now I have to take a gen chem class. I'm really struggling and don't have a very good grade in the class. I do fine in the labs but when it comes to learning the material for the test I'm not doing well. I've tried different study methods, use practice problems from the professor that are very similar to the ones that will be on the test and nothing is working. I'm worried I'm going to have to retake the class. #fall25
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1 answer
Madhu Mahalingam
Educational development
3
Answers
Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
Updated
Madhu’s Answer
To learn General Chemistry effectively, treat it like learning a new language. Practice regularly to improve. Start by preparing before class, participate actively during class, and use what you learn for assignments afterward. Follow this routine each week for every unit and chapter.
When studying, focus on what you've learned:
1. Use your textbook to read a section and summarize it in your own words. If allowed, use AI tools to summarize and compare with your version to see what's missing.
2. Work through example problems and practice exercises to test your understanding.
3. Complete end-of-chapter exercises in a notebook, showing all steps with correct units and figures. This builds confidence for exams.
4. Visit your professor during office hours to clarify any doubts.
5. Use quizzes to identify gaps in your knowledge. If allowed, use AI to create practice questions and explain your answers to check your understanding.
6. Join a study group to regularly practice problems. The more you work independently, the more confident you'll become.
7. Keep a journal of problems you often get wrong and seek help from your study group, professor, or AI tools.
Start these activities from the first day of the course and make them part of your weekly routine. When studying for exams, focus on reviewing and filling any remaining gaps in your understanding.
If you follow this diligently, you will do well in General Chemistry.
When studying, focus on what you've learned:
1. Use your textbook to read a section and summarize it in your own words. If allowed, use AI tools to summarize and compare with your version to see what's missing.
2. Work through example problems and practice exercises to test your understanding.
3. Complete end-of-chapter exercises in a notebook, showing all steps with correct units and figures. This builds confidence for exams.
4. Visit your professor during office hours to clarify any doubts.
5. Use quizzes to identify gaps in your knowledge. If allowed, use AI to create practice questions and explain your answers to check your understanding.
6. Join a study group to regularly practice problems. The more you work independently, the more confident you'll become.
7. Keep a journal of problems you often get wrong and seek help from your study group, professor, or AI tools.
Start these activities from the first day of the course and make them part of your weekly routine. When studying for exams, focus on reviewing and filling any remaining gaps in your understanding.
If you follow this diligently, you will do well in General Chemistry.