Chemistry and chemical discoveries underpin every sphere of science, technology, and industry. There’s an urgent need for chemists to help make our lives better, so if you pursue a career in this area, you’ll contribute to society directly. You can support pharmaceutics, criminal justice, metallurgy, or sustainability organizations. Not all chemists wear white coats. Chemistry isn’t what movies and TV make it to be. It’s so much more than that.
Just like any science, chemistry involves specific skills. You have to analyze data, solve problems, pay close attention to details, and communicate your findings verbally and in writing. Learning chemistry means learning how to be objective and how to reason. Completing a chemistry degree will prepare you with other skills, such as time management, research, group communication, and job ethics.
Since chemistry is a vast discipline, it’s not enough to master the basics. You need to know a little bit of everything, which involves breaking into unfamiliar territory. Memorization will only help you so far. Learning chemistry takes time and patience. Here are some suggestions to consider.
Brush Up Your Math Skills
While you don’t need to know advanced mathematical topics, you should be able to handle large amounts of data. Plus, you’ll have to solve many equations and formulas. If math is studied independently of chemistry, it’ll never find meaning. Simply put, you’ll struggle to apply the knowledge in the contexts you’ll encounter.
Become familiar with the following math concepts:
- Negative numbers
- Fractions
- Logarithms
- Algebraic equations
- Scientific notation
Don’t ever operate under the assumption that your math skills are solid. Identify knowledge gaps and make an action plan. There’s a range of textbooks available to help chemistry learners develop math knowledge and skills, and it’s recommended to implement the daily practice. When possible, step away from the book and practice.
Check out online study options to get the math practice you desperately need. Watch short video lessons centered around math and find tests that help you apply what you’re learning. Test-taking doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It’s just you. Sooner or later, you’ll have to assess your knowledge and skills.
Make Flashcards for A New Concept/Word
Use note cards to improve your memory. Make a flashcard for every new concept or word you come across. They’re great when you don’t have time to sit down and take a test, or you want to focus studying on specific areas. Have the name of a concept on one side and some definitions on another side. Equally, you can have a reaction on one side and the reaction name on the other side.
There are inefficient ways to use flashcards, of course. For example, it’s not a good idea to use complex cards that don’t encourage proper recall. You risk mistaking recognition for actual knowledge. Flashcards are only effective provided they’re used correctly. Using pre-made cards can be helpful, but you’re better off making your own flashcards. It forces you to present the information in your own words.
Here’s everything you need to know about making flashcards:
- Go through the subject matter
- Mark important definitions, terms, key phrases, formulas, etc.
- Make your flashcards (explain the ideas in your own words)
Get used to making flashcards as you continue to study, preferably immediately after you’ve covered a topic or unit. Ideally, you should test yourself across several topics.
Get Books, Resources, And Materials to Study
If you want to tackle learning chemistry, get your hands on as much information as possible. Invest in books, resources, and materials to study. You can order everything you need online. Speaking of which, this is the information age. You can find a bunch of study resources online. The quickest way to find something is to use a search engine like Google, Bing, or Yahoo. Don’t just visit just any website, and make sure the information is trustworthy.
Here are some examples of informational websites you should check out:
- Wikipedia. It’s one of the world’s most informative websites. Wikipedia continues to be a reliable source of information on various subjects, including chemistry. It’s true that anyone can write and edit information, but let’s not forget that experts constantly review the content.
- YouTube. The chances are that you’ll find a channel explaining everything you need to know. Tutors use YouTube, along with traditional teaching methods. Anyway, check out channels like the Chemical Bullion, the American Chemical Society, and Chemistry Guru.
- SciFinder. Undoubtedly, SciFinder is one of the most comprehensive databases for the chemical literature. You can research topics, search by author names, and learn more about chemical structures. The best part is that you can set up alerts for what you’re interested in. An alert is called Keep me Posted.
Find A Tutor for Chemistry
What better way to learn chemistry than with the help of a high-rated, experienced teacher? If you struggle with major topics such as electrochemistry, a tutor can help you overcome learning challenges related to chemistry. Online tutoring will provide you with the skills-building you need conveniently and cost-effectively. Chemistry doesn’t have to be too much of a headache, and you’ll get help with everything from balancing equations to understanding acids and bases.
Your chemistry tutor will most likely have an impressive background, having coached countless eager learners. Even if a lesson is difficult, you’ll be encouraged to give it your best. There’s no point in studying alone when you can join a tuition program. You’ll gain more confidence (and better grades). Acquiring knowledge isn’t overwhelming since you have support by your side. But you’ll need a lot of discipline.
The chemistry tutor simplifies things, tackling them from a different perspective. You get to focus on what’s bothering you. In chemistry tuition, you can ask as many questions as you like, so you can gain knowledge and prevent confusion. Also, you can build a relationship with your teacher. If you’re keen on people, you’ll build a connection.
