Reading the textbook

[Jane Wang 1E]

I actuallly dont read the textbook and whenever I have a question I either ask the UA's or go to the professor's office hours.

Does this work better than reading the text book?

[Ainsley McCabe 2D]

I actuallly dont read the textbook and whenever I have a question I either ask the UA's or go to the professor's office hours.

Does this work better than reading the text book?

I think the office hours are extremely helpful, but the book really gives you a larger understanding and also more practice problems to work on.

[Mari Masunaga 1G]

Yes! I find it very helpful. But also remember that it's ok if you don't read the entirety of a section. I also find textbook lingo hard to process, so I mostly look at bolded topics or definitions.

[Wenhan Li_3d]

I think writing note is definitely helpful for me. Some people prefer typing or simply review but writing is an automatic information processing experience that immediately took place. So I really recommend you to try this.

[Mario Prado 1K]

Hello,

Yes I find it very helpful when I read the textbook as it gives me a better understanding of the subject and allows me to review on my own outside of lectures.

Hope this helps.

[HannahArabi14a]

I agree that reading the textbook can get intimidating, but I recommend approaching it as a reference guide to clear up any misunderstandings from the lecture or homework assignments. The way I like to look at a textbook reading is by memorizing and really understanding the facts that are important to know when answering the question. Don't spend too much time trying to memorize the concepts, it's ideal to understand the concepts so that you can break down any facts and questions. For example in anatomy I would want to focus on the facts and terminology of an organ system, but for concepts I wouldn't focus upon them as much. Concepts could be for example: What is the concept of cell theory?

[Ameerah Hameed 3B]

Personally, I completely understand where you’re coming from. I get worried when I feel like I don't understand the concepts as quickly as I should. However, what seems to have worked for me in the past year is taking notes on the readings in the textbook and getting definitions down. By doing this, (even if I don’t completely understand what I’m reading) I can be familiar with the words when they’re brought up during lecture rather than feeling completely lost and out of the loop.

[Samantha Quevedo 2L]

The textbook can be overwhelming, but I find it helpful that as you are reading, try to do some practice problems along with it. If you feel that you do not understand the practice problems yet to do alongside the reading then drawing visuals as you read is something I find helpful.

[Jane Wang 1E]

I actuallly dont read the textbook and whenever I have a question I either ask the UA's or go to the professor's office hours.

Does this work better than reading the text book?

I think the office hours are extremely helpful, but the book really gives you a larger understanding and also more practice problems to work on.

OK, I wil try both ways, thanks for your help!

[605733348]

When I encounter confusing problems and notes I go back to textbooks to find an anwser.

[Vanessa_Ong_3F]

I usually read the textbook when I do not understand something completely, but I think it depends on what your learning style is. I would suggest skimming and summarizing if you are struggling to get through the text.

[asfakhan_2H]

personally, i think the textbook is a great resource and doing the practice problems assigned for each section really prepares and tests your knowledge. Jotting down key concepts or main ideas is also a very good way to remember important points.

[Sarah3C]

Is there anywhere to find a more detailed answer section for the textbook? I know some websites have textbook answers, but I can't find one for this book.

[Kirsten Yu 2K]

Personally, I like reading the textbook after lectures. Most of the time, it answers most, if not all, of the questions I come up with.

[Theo Teske 3B]

Is there anywhere to find a more detailed answer section for the textbook? I know some websites have textbook answers, but I can't find one for this book.

I would also love more detailed answers to the textbook questions. If there isn't some resource readily available, maybe Dr Lavelle or one of the TAs could walk through some of the answers in depth?

[Gabby Burgess 2I]

Hi!
Honestly it is a lot of time to spend on the textbook, but if you focus on setting aside either a certain number of pages or a certain time limit, that can be so helpful mentally.
You got it, hope that helps!

[Niyati 1F]

I find it helpful to review the topics we will cover in class beforehand. This way I have a basis before getting a deeper understanding.

[Jacob Kirkosian 3C]

The textbook is helpful in clarifying details from the lecture. It provides a more in-depth look into the material and example problems provided during the lecture.

[Rebekah Jung 1C]

I think reading the textbook would be helpful for more conteptual problems and ideas. The textbook problems are super important to understand and work through, expecially the ones he assigns in preparation for the midterm.

[Alexis Rempillo 3B]

I have similar experiences when I need to read a huge amount of text. I sometimes feel like giving up. What I learned that could help would watch the lectures first to get a gist idea of it. And then you can read and take extra notes for a better understanding of the subject. Another method could be to skim through the text before the lecture and then come back to read in a more confident manner. You can try other methods to see what best fits you. In the end, we are all learning here, so don't forget to not burn yourself out! :D

[Alyssa H]

I totally agree!! I really struggle with focusing when I have to read a large amount of text in order to learn a new concept. Personally, listening to lectures and taking good notes before reading the book has helped with that, as I can come to the book with a better understanding and then simply add to my lecture notes. Feels like much less of a task and helps save time!

[105532700]

taking notes while reading the textbooks is definitely very helpful

[Matthew Nguyen 3G]

Reading the supplementary material has been a helpful in filling out holes in concepts I don't understand. Also I high recommend doing the textbook problems

[Kimberly_martinez2I]

I read the textbook when I need to understand a concept better and to look at the examples.

[Kirsten Yu 2K]

Even though it feels tedious to get through at times, I highly value reading the textbook. It comes in handy when I'm looking into concepts I don't completely understand.

[Neha Jonnalagadda 2D]

I find that reading the textbook helps when you have to get problems from the textbook done. Especially because a lot of the problems are direct copies of what they explain in the textbook. It is a little confusing though sometimes especially because it goes much further into detail than Dr. Lavelle teaches us.

[Neha Jonnalagadda 2D]

In terms of studying for the midterms or finals, I didn't really read the textbook unless there was a concept on the outlines that I really did not understand. The textbook goes into depth really well and almost to a point that isn't necessary for the exams we have to take (so far based on my experience).

[705573518]

Reading through the textbook and completing the problems on the syllabus is a must to do well in this class. It helped me be well prepared for the midterm and also just furthered my understanding of the topics.

[705573518]

I actuallly dont read the textbook and whenever I have a question I either ask the UA's or go to the professor's office hours.

Does this work better than reading the text book?

Reading the textbook and doing the textbook problems was really helpful for me personally. Going to UA sessions/TA office hours was very helpful when I still didn't understand something after going through the textbook.

[Lizzy Bulla 3K]

I find it really helpful to read the textbook but that's because I like taking notes and that's how I learn best. If you find it to be intimidating you should try Khan Academy/youtube videos and that might be a bit easier to digest

[Jamie Park 2F]

Hi! I agree with you. Reading the textbook can be intimidating. I would still try to go over the textbook when I am completely new to the concept. I try to understand at least the key terms so I can understand what Prof. Lavelle is saying in the lectures. Usually, the lectures help me clarify the concepts in the textbook and identify what's important to know for the exam. I hope this helps!

[N Kanuri 2E]

For me personally, I find it helpful to read the sections, take notes, and immediately follow up with the outlined practice problems. However, this doesn't work for everyone. I understand that it can be intimidating, so maybe try working on it with a friend or study buddy! YouTube videos and other online resources can also help make information more digestible! Good luck!

[Mahli Martinez 2I]

Hi! I do find myself reading the textbook once I need more help understanding a certain concept or idea. If you find yourself intimidated, maybe refer to some of the modules Lavelle has provided? Those are always pretty helpful.

[Amaris Cagungun 1F]

The textbook does help with clarifying some concepts. Personally for me, it really helped with learning all the shells and sub shells. I would say look to the textbook if other resources don’t help!

[Zara Okeiyi 3C]

I have the same experience as you while reading the textbook, mostly because I am unfamiliar with the concept of using one that is entirely online. It may help to buy a physical copy.

[205769933]

Definitely take it slowly and don’t try to read the textbook in one go! Since it’s such a large piece of material really take the time to split the information into sections.

[HannahArabi14a]

When going over something like a chapter from a textbook, I find that the best way to break it down is to take notes and do the practice problems that are provided in textbook so that you know whether or not you are applying the concepts properly. It may be difficult to start, but the best thing to do is not look at the whole chapter and try to understand and focus on it in one setting. You need to break it down with either using the pomodoro technique, where you can read and take notes for like 35 to 40 minutes and then take a break for about 5 to 10 minutes doing something you have fun as a hobby. When you transition your focus from academics to something else it gives you time to refresh and give your mind a break. Don't try to study for over an hour in one sitting, take multiple breaks so you don't burn out, studying in one sitting without breaks I argue would lead to a diminishing return on knowing what you are reading.

[305692127]

When reading the textbook, is it better to do the examples the way it has been provided, or the way Dr. Lavelle does it in lecture. I sometimes look up khan academy videos for reference and they sometimes have a different approach as well.

[Sara Dolmo 2J]

I sometimes read the textbook to gain a little. bit more understanding of topics we learn in class.

[Julia Todorov 2F]

Reading the textbook helps a lot. Sometimes I will try the textbook problems without reading the textbook first to see what I already know, then I read through and it really solidifies what you already know and helps clarify the things you didn't. Sometimes though, the textbook will go into detail about things we don't really need to worry about, so I recommend having his outline out for reference while reading the book!

[Isabella Perez Dis3L]

Personally, I find it easier by going through the course reader to review key concepts. When I am doing the homework and stumble upon a question/concept I don't fully understand, I utilize the textbook to go into depth.

[dahlia Faruque]

Personally, I find it helpful to read the book if you are stuck on a certain topic because the book is very in-depth and detailed so at first, it may seem challenging. However, after watching the online lectures and doing some exercises the book helps with the small details and bringing everything together.

[dahlia Faruque]

Personally, I find it helpful to read the book if you are stuck on a certain topic because the book is very in-depth and detailed so at first, it may seem challenging. However, after watching the online lectures and doing some exercises the book helps with the small details and bringing everything together.

[Kayla Ziebell 1H]

Sometimes I also get intimidated reading the textbook. I recommend searching on YouTube 'The Organic Chemistry Tutor.' I have found his videos really helpful and he's had videos on every topic I've had trouble on. I have found that he breaks it down and goes over the content very slowly. Sometimes watching his videos then reading the book will clear up some of the confusing stuff in the book.

[Esmeralda_Solis_2D]

I highly recommend reading the textbook, even if you skim through it. It does contain a lot of material but it will help you further understand the concepts that were mentioned in lecture or to learn new ones.

[505705039]

Hi,
I think reading the textbook is important especially when needing to understand topics further and it also provides clarification for what is being taught in class.

[Daniel N]

I also get intimidated reading the textbook. I used to never read the TBs for other classes, but I guess I have a special relationship with this class. I tend to take notes as I read through the book.

[Morgan Micallef 1A]

I try to only go to the textbook when I'm really confused on a topic, otherwise, TAs are generally more helpful for specific questions. I also get stressed out by the language in the textbook

[Esther Kim]

Reading the textbook helps me understand the material a lot more in depth

[hanniaghernandez]

Hey! I think at this point in time there is not a lot of time nor would it be so beneficial to read the whole textbook. I would suggest doing the practice problems and practice tests on the material that is on the syllabus. Good luck on finals!

[Isabelle Kludt 2B]

I can see how it is overwhelming, don't worry I don't think reading the whole thing is necessary. I would just use it to focus on topics you don't understand as well or are struggling with.

[Mrinalini Mishra 2L]

I find that having a physical copy of the textbook makes it easier for me to read the book and do the problems without getting distracted. You can find them for $20 to rent off of Amazon for a solid quarter.

[dericasu3a]

I find that having a physical copy of the textbook makes it easier for me to read the book and do the problems without getting distracted. You can find them for $20 to rent off of Amazon for a solid quarter.

I agree with the physical copy thing. Letting my eyes take a break from constantly staring at a screen is super helpful. Also just physically holding the book and writing notes down by hand does something subconsciously for my learning.

[Mrinalini Mishra 2L]

I find that having a physical copy of the textbook makes it easier for me to read the book and do the problems without getting distracted. You can find them for $20 to rent off of Amazon for a solid quarter.

I agree with the physical copy thing. Letting my eyes take a break from constantly staring at a screen is super helpful. Also just physically holding the book and writing notes down by hand does something subconsciously for my learning.

Also the textbook has answers to odd problems, so it helps me my learning by being able to check my answers once I've finished a section.

[Jessica Li 1G]

I think reading the textbook is more effective for learning concepts quickly through chemical equations and visual representation of the learning. I also use it to reference my knowledge to past sections whenever I need it.

[Misha_Khan_2H]

Don't try to read it all at once, break into smaller sections topic-wise. Personally reading the textbook does help me cause it gives an in depth explanation of all concepts taught in class.

[David Facio 3C]

Other than reading the textbook, does anyone have outside resources such as animated science youtube channel recommendations for visual learners?

[dericasu3a]

Other than reading the textbook, does anyone have outside resources such as animated science youtube channel recommendations for visual learners?

For chemical concepts, I would recommend The Organic Chemistry Tutor, Bozeman Science, Khan Academy, and Crash Course if you like visuals/animations. Professor Dave Explains is more lecture-style, and NurdRage is good for lab and experimental-based stuff. Hope this helps!

[Vashe Sundar 3H]

As a visual learner myself, I highly recommend Organic Chemistry Tutor. They have content varying from calculus to organic chemistry.

[Mara Crooks 1F]

I have a similar problem but have found Khan Academy has helped a lot. Also, I use a reader for a Chrome Extension called Speechify that helps me follow along with textbook reading a lot better.

[Mrinalini Mishra 2L]

As a visual learner myself, I highly recommend Organic Chemistry Tutor. They have content varying from calculus to organic chemistry.

Their videos are great! Super helpful and clear.

[Jamie Park 2F]

I get intimidated too, so I just use it as an extra reference. If I don't understand what is covered in the lecture, I would just jump to the textbook section that explains it.

[Parinita Jithendra 2A]

for me, I would say that it is helpful to review the textbook if you are unsure about a topic. However, I think that the textbook problems are definitely the best way to go practice the material and understand it better.