If given unknown compound, identify what functional groups and the reactions and properties
related to that. Use any hints in question about compound. First draw displayed formula if just
given structural formula.
• Pay most attention to the ‘weird’ stuff question says.
• If unsure, just use logic and go with it and persevere.
• Draw out into displayed formula first to avoid mistakes.
• If question says ‘less volatile’, they are comparing, so I need to compare.
• Always give reactants and conditions needed for reaction, even if question doesn’t ask for it.
• When asks for balanced equations in organic chemistry, do structural formula.
• If question gives in molecular, do molecular in answer.
• Exam usually gives structural, convert to displayed to make less mistakes. But make sure balanced
if an equation.
• Remember to state name of reaction mechanism.
• For suggest questions, just think of what examiner wants you to write, what proves knowledge.
• If questions presents two steps between reactant and product, means need to go round to get to
product, need an extra step.
• ‘Write the different isomers’-referring to E/Z if has double bond and explain what E/Z is in relation
to products.
• If two functional group on compound, will react twice if excess of reactant.
• Remember H3C.
• Acid catalysts are not part of chemical equation
