Midterm

[Lizbeth Crisanto 3D]

Are there any study tips you recommend doing for this upcoming midterm?

[Lauren Woodward 1I]

Hi! I think the best way to prepare would be to work through the optional textbook problems either alone or with a study group! I've found them to be great practice for reinforcing the topics we've learned during lectures.

[asfakhan_2H]

I think the number one thing I am going to do is practice problems from the textbook and homework since you can gain a
lot of insight and tips from these problems. Reading the textbook can also be very helpful.

[Reza Hemmati 3L]

Hi!

Something that's worked for me with chem in high school as well is to space out your studying(ie. doing 15-30 minutes of chem practice a day), which helps with retention. Also, you can try to teach a friend/family member what you've learned, which helps you gain a better conceptual understanding of chem especially.

Hope this helps ^^

[SheaZenker_3F]

I was reading reviews on Bruinwalk and one thing most reviews recommended was doing the practice problems in the textbook

[Sarah3C]

Do we have to be on the UCLA campus to take the chem midterm or can we take it from anywhere?

[Karla Vega]

^ @ Sarah, the midterm, from my understanding will be online!

[Connor_Olsen_2K]

More then anything, practice as the others have said. Also make sure you're understanding conceptually, so watch the audio-visual topics.

[Maggie Black 1C]

The syllabus has a list of extra practice problems that have been really helpful in solidifying my understanding of the material we've covered so far. I highly recommend doing all of those problems as a review before the midterm.

Here's the link to his syllabus: https://lavelle.chem.ucla.edu/wp-content/supporting-files/Chem14A/Chem14ASYLL_1.pdf

[Brianna Mercado 3D]

Hi! From advice I've heard from peers who have taken this course, they recommended doing both textbook problems and making flashcards with important topics. Hope this helps!

[Joseph Ettipio]

Heads up, asked my TA the other day and was caught off guard when she said that our midterm will be taken in the lecture hall, not at discussion. So that little dinky desk is all we get which is a bit scary.

[N Kanuri 2E]

Doing the practice problems from the textbook has been super helpful, and I think reviewing the modules on Professor Lavelle's website might be a good way to make sure you understand the basics of every unit!

[madeleinewright]

I've heard that some of the questions on the midterm are taken directly or almost directly from the textbook practice problems, so you should definitely work through those problems. I also personally like making flashcards or Quizlets and rereading through old notes so that they're fresh in my mind.

[Denise Chavez 2G]

I think the practice problems from the textbook can be very beneficial to prepare for the midterm because you are building your understanding of the topic that way, also make flashcards about topics you may be having trouble with that way you can study a little everyday and not cram study the night before.

[ElizabethKarlin2E]

I've heard that the textbook problems and homework are what's really helpful, I personally think you have to grind out practice problems until everything starts to make sense

[Christine Lin 1H]

I suggest attending some of the UA sessions! I attended one with Gabriel and I found it so helpful. They provide worksheets to reinforce some questions.

Additionally, like others have said, do the textbook problems! Dr. Lavelle has said/written many times that the textbook questions will be very similar to test questions.

Best with your studying!!

[Jamie Park 2F]

I would go over all the textbook problems and if there are any problems that I don't know, I will read the textbook to review the concepts for that specific problem(s). I hope this helps!

[Madeline_Miller]

I've heard that the best way to prepare for the midterm is to do as much practice as possible. Do the textbook fundamental practice problems and attend the UA sessions. I've found the UA sessions extremely helpful for getting a better grasp of the material!

[Christine Lin 1H]

I've heard that some of the questions on the midterm are taken directly or almost directly from the textbook practice problems, so you should definitely work through those problems. I also personally like making flashcards or Quizlets and rereading through old notes so that they're fresh in my mind.

Active learning methods are a great idea! Sometimes taking notes is helpful but ultimately, I find actually doing problems and/or using flashcards help!

I suggest learning how to use Anki! It's similar to Quizlet and more personalized. For those planning on taking the MCAT, many students who have taken it before recommend using Anki. It might be hard to learn starting off but ultimately pays off. It uses space learning and scientific techniques to help you reinforce the topics/vocab/questions.

[Amaris Cagungun 1F]

Doing the practice problems in the textbook can really help you learn how to approach problems from different angles. Since a lot of problems ask you to find different things and since the information given to you can be different each time I think it’s important to know how to approach problems from various angles since a fixed set of steps won’t always work.

[Daniela G 2C]

Practicing HW and textbook problems will definitely help. Something I like to do is work on unfamiliar problems independently to locate where I stand with the material/find which steps confuse me and then ask others for help.

[Aaron Kim 1J]

Definitely do the homework questions listed in the syllabus. It states on the Exam Schedule page that to encourage us to complete the problems, the exam will literally include questions from the homework. Also, I'd strongly recommend finding others in the class to make a study group; I find it super helpful being able to ask other classmates for help and discussing problems with others.

[Ally Mosher]

I would recommend doing the practice textbook problems and reading the textbook. And consistently posting questions on chemistry community.

[Cynthia_L_2C]

Will we be given any formulas, or is it just best to memorize them all?

[Samantha Toscano 2C]

One of the best study tips that I learned from my psych class: DISTRIBUTE YOUR STUDY SESSIONS ! Always schedule a consistent time where you can review topics with time ! It will be one the the best ways to learn in the long-run (:

[Abigail Tran 14a]

I recommend joining a study group because oftentimes people bring up questions that you have never thought of so you can learn from that and cover your blindspots before the test.

[305723807]

take notes and read

[Jamie Lau 2J]

Personally I have been reviewing my notes nightly and asking to study with peers. Don't be afraid to ask questions if you have problems since there are a lot of people willing to help you whether it's your TAs or classmates. Also, don't forget to give yourself breaks while studying since it's important to stay focused and mindful to retain information.

[Kristen Bansil 1G]

Hey there, I find that doing the problems provided in the outlines as well as a consistent study schedule helps you develop a foundation for your understanding as well as solve problems quicker and more efficiently!

[Jeremy 3B]

After reviewing your notes I think the best thing to do would be to work through the practice problems in the book and the problems that the TA gave you during discussion section.

[kiara chan]

I'd say watching the lecture videos on the website. I like those a lot more than the recorded lectures sometimes. Also definitely do the syllabus questions from the textbook, those practice problems are a godsend.

[Matthew Li 1B]

best way to study is to do all the optional book problems and also to go to your TA's office hour to ask for more questions and help

[Kirsten Yu 2K]

I would focus on the practice textbook problems that are stated in the course outline. Quizlet and flashcards are great for additional help as well!

[Peter Fernandez 2K]

I would do all the optional textbook problems, review Achieve, and study with friends by trying to teach them the concepts! If you're still struggling, I recommend going to the UA step-up sessions!

[Hannah Choi 1K]

Textbook problems seem to be the general consensus, and I agree. They are really helpful, and apparently some will appear on the test. I would also suggest going to the UA workshops because the worksheets that the UAs make are extremely helpful, especially with review of previous lessons.

[Monse Mata 3D]

My recommendation and something that I am doing is going over and doing some practice problems from the textbook which I personally feel are very helpful :)

[KatieWu 1E]

I would just do a lot of the textbook problems and specifically practice the concepts you are less familiar with and review the notes. And of course trying not to procrastinate too much and study at least a couple days before the midterm :)

[oliviahelou]

I personally advise you to rewatch the lectures on ccle (x 1.5 speed) and do the achieve homework. You can also ask your TA for extra worksheets!

[Clarence Clavite 2K]

Hello, as far as studying tips goes, self testing and spaced repetition are really effective ways to study that help with retaining information. Both have been shown to be high utility when it comes to studying. Hope this helps!

[Jessica Arcos 2H]

Hi! So what I've heard from some students who already took his class, it is very helpful to practice the textbook problems he provides on the syllabus because sometimes he uses the same exact questions or similar ones. Also, I think watching the videos he has on his website would be a good start.

[Victoria Sigala 2A]

I would recommend doing the practice problems he assigns as well as focusing a bit more on the sections you're having most problems with. If you are in AAP there we will do midterm review on Thursday the 21st and I believe that will be very helpful.

[Lawrence Javelo Disc 3B]

Hi,

For the midterm I've been going through all of the notes I've had before and highlighting everything that needs to be looked over again. I've been doing the questions in the syllabus again as well as extra review!

[Esmeralda_Solis_2D]

Go through your notes and practice. I usually redo the practice problems from lectures, discussions, and online resources. Practicing is the best way to prepare for any kind of exam.

[Anton Truskovsky 2K]

Textbook problems are key. Also, someone in the Chem 14 Group-Me compiled all of the problems into a "study guide", which is very handy. Also, quiz yourself of broad concepts and how they are related to each other.

[Ameerah Hameed 3B]

I have noticed so far that going over the practice problems in the textbook have solidified my understanding on most of the course topics. Additionally, if I am still confused on a specific topic I will watch Dr. Lavelle's video on it.

[Rebekah Jung 1C]

practice problems and more practice problems. also, being able to re-teach the concepts to yourself/others is a good way to gauge how well you understand the concepts.

[Amy Kalteis 2F]

Among everything else everyone has already said, I like to go through my notes and make a condensed note/formula sheet! This makes it easy to do more practice problems and see which formulas or topics I should focus more time on studying.

[Macy_Anderson_2F]

Hi! I will be studying by reviewing all of the practice problems in the textbook that Dr. Lavelle listed on the syllabus. I will also be reviewing the achieve questions. I also find that explaining concepts on Chemistry Community can be very helpful because you can gain a stronger understanding of it conceptually.

[905574994]

Does anyone know where to find the answers to the practice problems in the textbook?

[Ashley Fakolujo 3H]

I suggest attending some of the UA sessions! I attended one with Gabriel and I found it so helpful. They provide worksheets to reinforce some questions.

Additionally, like others have said, do the textbook problems! Dr. Lavelle has said/written many times that the textbook questions will be very similar to test questions.

Best with your studying!!

Do you know if Gabriel will be holding sessions this week before the midterm and if so, when and how can we attend?

[Ashley Fakolujo 3H]

Does anyone know where to find the answers to the practice problems in the textbook?

Scroll all the way down to the section underneath the questions

[205677523]

Just so everyone knows, my TA said that we'll be split up into classrooms to take the midterm (so we won't be in the main lecture hall and will have a lot more desk space to work!!). We're supposed to get emails with more info this week :)

[Christine Lin 1H]

I suggest attending some of the UA sessions! I attended one with Gabriel and I found it so helpful. They provide worksheets to reinforce some questions.

Additionally, like others have said, do the textbook problems! Dr. Lavelle has said/written many times that the textbook questions will be very similar to test questions.

Best with your studying!!

Do you know if Gabriel will be holding sessions this week before the midterm and if so, when and how can we attend?

Hey Ashley!

I believe Gabriel will hold a session today (Sun. Oct. 17) from 1pm-2pm and it will be a midterm review session (usually we do a worksheet of chem word problems). Here is the link to his worksheets and solutions:
https://drive.google.com/drive/u/0/fold ... VfSrQr9xoF.
You can also search up his name (gabriel) in the upper righthand corner search bar.

Here is also a list of Undergrad Assistant Workshops and Step-Up sessions.
https://lavelle.chem.ucla.edu/wp-conten ... PL_ALL.pdf

Hope to see you in some workshops/step-up sessions!
Best with studying and midterms!

Christine Lin

[Christine Lin 1H]

Just so everyone knows, my TA said that we'll be split up into classrooms to take the midterm (so we won't be in the main lecture hall and will have a lot more desk space to work!!). We're supposed to get emails with more info this week :)

Thank you for the info!!

I'm still worried about the wifi issues and tech issues, but I'm glad 400+ people won't be crammed into one lecture hall :,)
Look forward to more information!

Wishing you all the best for studying and midterms!

[madeleinewright]

Definitely do the textbook problems, because some of them will be on the midterm. Also, go over the audio-visual modules and go to office hours/workshops if you have questions or want help understanding something.

[Amy Huynh 1B]

I recommend doing practice problems to help you find out which topics you are struggling with. Then, you can review those specific topics further by watching videos or doing some textbook reading!

[Shannon Lau 14B - 1H]

My TA was the one that actually recommended me this (shoutout to Noelle) but she said to list all the topics that were covered and to close the book or any notes that you have and to start writing what you know about each topic. Then you should look at what you had written and check it. Look at which topic you didn't have much knowledge about and focus more on those.

[Paige Steffler]

Is there any tips for the day of the midterm? It seems like doing the textbook problems, homework, and rewatching the lectures seems like a great way to study over the week leading up, but is there anything that has helped people with nerves/confidence right before the test?

[Christine Lin 1H]

Is there any tips for the day of the midterm? It seems like doing the textbook problems, homework, and rewatching the lectures seems like a great way to study over the week leading up, but is there anything that has helped people with nerves/confidence right before the test?

Hi Paige,

I think you can feel and more prepared by familiarizing yourself with the material and doing as many practice problems as possible can make you feel more confident. Maybe you can also place yourself in a classroom/study space during the same lecture times on the upcoming days to practice getting used to doing chem in that time. We like routine and it won't feel as daunting when we actually have to do the exam.

Don't try any new things (like drinking coffee if you usually don't drink coffee) before the exam. Know how to use Respondus and make sure your computer/device is fully charged before the exam.

This is my first midterm at UCLA as well and I'm nervous too! I think as long as we are prepared and have confidence in ourselves, we'll be okay :) Staying calm and composed during an exam (or any situation) is just as important and knowing the material.

Wishing you the best on studying and the midterm — you got this!

[Matthew Li 1B]

also go to office hours and ua hours to get more practice

[Sujin Lim 1H]

I also recommend that you go over each of the learning objectives/outlines under the Learning Outcomes section on the professor's website! I personally find it really help to answer each of those objectives out loud, like I am teaching another student. Going over them with a friend/peer would also be helpful!

[Christina Gigoux 1D]

Hi!
I would go through the textbook problems, read over your notes, and look over the equations/constants sheet. For anything that you are unsure of, I would do some extra problems or go over the textbook. Additionally, I would go over the outline and see if you can explain each of the listed topics.

[Anisa Subbiah 14B 1L]

Do we have to be on the UCLA campus to take the chem midterm or can we take it from anywhere?

Hi Sarah!
From what I understand the exam is online but we still take them in person in our lecture halls using a lockdown browser. I think you would need to get permission to do it off campus!

[Jordyn Lee 1J]

Hi, will we need a graphing calculator or is a scientific calculator sufficient enough for the midterm?

[605778346]

Hi, I'm currently studying for my midterm and I think that doing the textbook problems will help prepare us.

[Alice Weber 3I]

Hi! I would say to do the questions in the textbook assigned in the syllabus and go over any notes you took and try to come up with questions yourself.

[Anika Scott 3A]

Simply put, take advantage of everything that is provided to you. Use your TA's, UA's, the step-up sessions, and I have heard that doing the textbook problems is also super beneficial.