How to Succeed in Chemistry

For some, general chemistry will be extremely interesting and exciting. For those students, you should remember to take advantage of every resource you have and get involved with the department. Talk to professors and figure out all the opportunities there are at UTA to get involved in chemistry and the fascinating research being conducted at this University.

However, not all of you will think as fondly of chemistry. For those who aren't as excited about chemistry, remember many fields of science require a solid knowledge of all the topics learned in these classes, and many other fields require the problem solving skills that this class will help develop. The main tool for success in these classes is your ability to stay motivated. Getting an 'A' and learning all you need to know is not an impossible task. Putting in the time and effort will actually make this a very reachable goal. If you feel stuck, lost, or just need some extra help then the chemistry clinic and the chemistry professors are always willing and happy to help.

Use your resources! Be prepared to put in the time and try to stay as motivated as you can, remembering that you are working toward whatever educational goal you have set for yourself. This class may be a fun part of that path to your goal, or it may seem to be a little rough. Whatever the case is, put in the effort and stay motivated and you may be surprised how well you can do!

Chemistry Success Videos

Chemistry Success Tips

For information that I have to learn by sheer memorization (such as the long list of anions and compounds) I made my own study sheets of the name with a "__________________" next to it that I had to write it out. It had about 120 of them on each sheet and I did that sheet no less than 20 times.

You'd be amazed at how quickly you can do all 120 of those problems after about the fifth or sixth time. After its all been said and done, I know that what works for me in general chemistry is being physically involved in concepts (aka working them out, over and over again). It's much more useful than reading, reading, reading and reading some more and not having it physically connect with me. -Anonymous

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry

The University of Texas at Arlington · Arlington, Texas 76019-0065 USA

Phone: 817-272-3171 | Fax: 817-272-3808