Chemistry is one of those subjects which hold a very impactful position in Science. This part of science forms the basis of all the other aspects of the same like biology, physics, and even robotics. When talking about the scope of the same, there are multiple career options one can choose from like chemistry professor, chemical scientists, chemical researcher, the chemical handler in some manufacturing firm, quality controller in the pharma industry, and much more; the list is endless. The long list is itself proof that chemistry holds a bright future for individuals. But this all starts with keeping the basics of the subject clear and well understood. Here is when the levels of this subject come into the limelight. And for the very same reason this subject holds a lot importance in the list of all the other subjects.
The subject is bifurcated in two levels for better understanding, which is the orientation, or the initial level, and the advanced level; also called the O level and the A level chemistry. Not obvious to enunciate that one needs to pass the initial level to move on to the next one. There are many schools and colleges which ask for minimum O level chemistry certification to opt for A level studies. And there are many universities which have kept A level chemistry as the minimum qualification for higher studies in the same area of interest.
O level chemistry as already mentioned-above is the initial level where students get acquainted with many new concepts and parts of the whole subject. The topics covered in this level include atoms, ions, metallic bonding, electrolysis, acids, basis, chemical reactions and much more. Having so much to understand and cover, many students opt for extra coaching classes. But seldom have they understood that apart from extra classes, strategizing the studying patter efficiently will help them study the difficult concepts. Self-study holds a vital role in the success of any student.
Therefore students should plan out everything apart from the extra classes or regular classes which they are taking to study the subject.
- Learn Time Management:
One thing which needs to be done initially is that the student can plan out the whole day and distribute hours among the topics he or she needs to cover and also give priority to those topics which require more time. Time management is the only mantra one can follow to achieve proper understanding and completion of the same. The plan should be chalked out in such a way that every topic is allotted sufficient time. But, this practice should not be done on the cost of some leisure time; because some relaxing moments are also necessary for the mind and body to relax. Therefore equal weightage should be given to everything study and rest.
- Understand the Connection Between Topics:
Also one should try connecting the topics among themselves; there are varied topics that can be understood in an easy way when inter-connected and studied in a network pattern. Many topics share some common concepts and theories which are easy to grasp when understood together; therefore a student should take those topics together which can be interconnected, and well understood thereafter. For instance, the student can collaborate between bases and acids, atoms and ions to learn them in an interconnected manner.
- Break Larger Topics into Smaller Ones:
Many topics in O level chemistry are vast and huge, and learning anyone such topic whole at a time might pose a problem for the learner. The technique to be followed here is that students can break the large topics in various small sub-topics, and can then move with studying them further. Breaking down the complex topics in simple segments can make it more manageable. This is a very effective strategy which many students follow not only for chemistry but other subjects also.
- Refer to Good Chemistry Notes:
When talking about study material and notes, one should always refer to quality material and legit material to study. Proper flow charts and clear explanation of the concept in a standard form, along with these proper tables prepared for understanding the chemical symbols and equations. A good quality study material ensures that the student gets the right concept and in crystal clear terms.
- Practice Chemical Equations:
Along with these, practicing chemistry equations and numerical problems daily is also vital. Regular practice makes the concept more clear and understandable for the learner. Also, there are so many symbols of various chemical components that require regular revision; therefore the student should read them daily and also make flowcharts to better inter-connect them.
With so many steps that can be taken to better understand the subject, students should continuously innovate the ways one can make self-studying better and enjoyable. It’s in the hand of the learner to make the subject interesting and worth learning. And therefore he or she should try making all possible efforts to learn and understand the subject better.
Strategize, optimize, utilize and enjoy learning chemistry!