Organic Chemistry (CHEM 3510/3511 and CHEM 3520/3521)

Organic chemistry is a field near and dear to my heart. I teach the organic chemistry sequence which is taken by all chemistry majors and most biology majors. 

Organic is considered one of the most difficult subjects on a college campus, but I try my hardest to pull as many students through as can. Organic chemistry is the study of carbon. Well, that's only one element right? That can't be so hard, right?!? RIGHT?!?!?

Unfortunately, it is. If you would like some helpful hints before climbing into organic chemistry, here you go:

1. Buy the textbook, the study guide, and a molecular model kit. These are instrumental to passing the class with a C or better. I'm okay if you buy the previous edition as long as you use it!
2. Pass general chemistry with a B or better. We say that you need a C or better, but most students who get a C in general chemistry don't fare well in organic chemistry. If you do find yourself in that situation, make sure you look closely over Lewis Dot Structures, intermolecular forces, weak acid/base chemistry, valence, electron configurations, and VSEPR theory BEFORE getting into organic.
3. Read the book before class. Ask questions early and often. 

Those are some of my tips for success!