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Student advice from past CHE 111 students (at the end of the semester) for future CHE 111 students...
Fall 2016
Work on the labs and finish them as soon as possible because waiting until they are due will cause you to forget things and you also have more time to review the work on the lab.
Start studying right away so you don’t fall behind.
Study harder and most of the information you’ll need to pass this course is from the lecture so focus.
Use all possible resources (Q&A Sheets, Things to Know, etc). Start the lab report immediately after lab or lecture.
Do as much extra credit as you can even if you feel that your current grade is fine. Also, form study groups or work with another student to get a better understanding of the material.
Take this course with only one other class. You need to be able to focus on this class to be able to understand this class.
Do the work. Read the book, more than once. Take notes on everything. Don’t procrastinate on homework because you will forget it all!
It is possible to be successful in this course if you really put forth the effort. Doing homework is extremely helpful to not only understanding the material better, but it really helps your grade too. Waiting to do something at the last minute will not work in this class. Study a lot and don’t miss class if possible.
Form a study group, ready the textbook, and do practice problems.
Try to get ahead on the homework. Also, the first three weeks of material are so crucial.
Make sure you go to any available review sessions and always ask questions when you have them. Have other people to study with and bounce ideas off of. The review sessions helped me so much with understanding the material better.
Find a group to study with. Do all the homework, it adds up! Don’t procrastinate when it comes to studying for a test.
(1) Do the practice problems for each chapter. The practice problems really help with making sure you know the material well enough for the homework or exams. (2) Ask questions if you are u sure of any of the material. It is not good to wait until the last minute to ask questions. (3) Study for exams early by rereading the chapters it will cover and review previous homework assignments. If you follow these pieces of advice it will make it easier for you to pass the class.
- Have a marriage bond with chemistry and make it as strong as a covalent bond.
- Right from when you sign up to be in that chemistry marriage bond, study the rules of the marriage bond and keep all of it.
- From the first chapter of the bond, begin to study and review all materials every day because from Chapter 1 the class demands for your full attention and you have to keep to it.
- Reduce hours at work and leisure.
- Attend the review class if one is available. It is very helpful. Prof is there to answer all your questions.
- Do all your homework on time. It makes it easier and don’t be lazy about it.
- Do end of chapter extra credit questions and the Q&A for extra credit. You can’t beat that, it’s a give-away free points which pays off at the end.
- Come to class early, especially on the quiz days. Don’t miss your quizzes as the points are easy to accumulate and help you memorize so many things.
- Study every day and try to know every concept because one leads to the other on each of the chapters. It has a chain effect.
- Do not be scared. Just follow all of Dr. Tracey’s instructions and you will succeed, love chemistry, and be excited about it.

Spring 2016
Don't wait until the last minute to do your homework and lab report because it will cost you. Do Q&A sheets before starting to do the homework. It is a lot of work but it will be a lot easier.  Always look at Things to Know.  This course is very tough.  Start the assignment as early as you can, don't wait until the last minute.  Practice. Practice. Q&A's are a huge help.
Try to understand each topic before going forward because it builds up and if you don't understand Chapter 1, you will struggle in Chapter 2.  Each chapter leads to the next.
I recommend that you don't take this class if you are not prepared for the work load and time commitment.  It has been very difficult to manage this particular class with a full time work and full time school schedule. The difficulty of this class primarily relies on the time put in. There is a lot of fundamental information given and this takes time to learn.
I think the best thing is to do the homework right away after class, so you can have time to ask if you have problems with it.
Never underestimate the amount of time each homework and lab report takes to complete. Success depends upon balance and taking on too much can only lead to lower performance. If one's goal is to perform highly in this class, then much preparation is needed, early and often.
Go to recitations if they are offered, or office hours if there are no recitations.  Do every Q&A sheet!  I can't stress these two studying tools enough!
Do the homework and Q&A sheets.  If you come to every class, take good notes, and do all mandatory work (and Q&A sheets for review for tests), you'll be golden.
Find a weekly routine with at least one free day dedicated to chemistry homework, studying and labs.
Fully immerse yourself in the material!  It would be naive to assume you can treat this course like the average "intro level" or "fulfilling a prerequisite" type of course.  This class requires dedication and TIME!  To expect an excellent grade, on merely class time and a couple hours a week, is a complete myth! And... follow instructions!  They may seem redundant, but they are the very tools that will get you to where you need to be.
Do a ton of practice problems, especially the Q&A sheets.  And spend time on your homework to really understand the material, don't rush through it.  Take good notes!
Study, study, study.  Practice problems like the homework problems.  Get the study guide manual and work through that as well.  If you can't get through at least 20 hours(+) a week then I suggest you take the class at a later time.  Otherwise, you will complete the class with an unsatisfactory grade.
Take advantage of extra review sessions and recitations when they are offered, plus the tutoring center.  Also, give yourself plenty of time for assignments and do plenty of practice problems.

Fall 2015
Don't wait until the last minute to study. Doing homework and studying a little bit every day will give you a better understanding of the subject
Go to every class. Also, for tests, make sure to use those "Things to Know" packets. Go through each bullet point and know everything about the subect. Finally, memorize the ions as fast as you can, you're going to need it.
Do the homework, and when studying use the homeworks to study.
Study very hard, don't take any assignment for granted and complete each task at the best of your ability. Get help from other students and tutoring. Keep a very positive mindset as a fuel for motivation and determination throughout the course.
Do the practice sheets in the bins - they will help greatly through the course.
Make sure you memorize what needs to be memorized. Stay on top of the homework. Complete the homework and check the solutions as they're posted. Make sure you put forth the effort in as well as out of the classroom. Study a lot.
Read the book before going to class. Read your notes. Do homework over and over again. Reread the book and notes if you have time. Watch videos on youtube.
Always look at the Things to Know sheet when studying. Use your notes, Things to Know, and How to Study for Exams. If you can make it to class, listen to what the teacher has to say and take notes.
Constantly study the material and do all extra credit and homework. Cramming last minute does not go so well.
This course is challenging but doable. This class will force you to use good time management skills and ask for help. Everything you learn in this class builds off of one another. Take the time to do the Q&A's and go through the Things to Know after very lecture. Take advantage of tutoring and SI.
Actually study the 12 hours recommended for the class. Work with a smart classmate in lab, so you're not constantly having to show others what to do.
Go through the Things to Know sheet very well. Most of what you need to know on exams is on there, so it is a great way to start studying. Also, reading the textbook and going to tutoring helps so much as well.
Read the book. Read it even if you think you understand everything.
Do lots of practice. Attempt as many problems as you can. Even if you think you got it, keep on doing it. Retain the material. Do not just read it to pass the test, you need to retain it until you do your finals. Read notes. Listen attentively to lectures, never take any lecture for granted.
Spend time doing your homework and studying for exams. CHE 111 is not difficult to get a good grade for, but it needs a lot of practice and time.
I think my problem, which other new chem students may face, is I underestimated the class. Make sure that they take full advantage of tutoring and other tools. Now I get it, but I wish I saw it earlier.
Show up to every class. Find a study partner. Take the time to read the textbook.
Study. Study like there's no tomorrow. Make flash cards for the polyatomic anions and terms. Do the Q&A sheets to help with the math. Most importantly, ask questions.
Start every assignment the day you get it. You don't need to finish it, or even get half done. That way, you've made some progress well before it's due. From there, just work on it for a few minutes whenever you have some time. By splitting assignments up over a week instead of resorting to binge working, it seems like much less work.
Do the Q&A sheets at the same time as homework. Yes it is more work to do but the extra points help, and it is good practice.
Don't think CHE 111 is basic, but you must work hard to pass this class. Remember to do all the homework plus extra problems on the Q&A sheets. Also, you should attend a group study, that activity is really helpful. If you don't understand the lesson, you can ask them for help.
Practice questions from the book and do those Q&A worksheets. Also, study. Study for quizzes and focus more on procedure of the content not what content is.
Dont' ever try to cram! If you keep up with the work assigned (homework, quizzes, reading) you will thank yourself later. Take advantage of help available as well as extra credit. Doing the practice problems and Q&A's will not only boost your test grades, they are also a huge help studying and learning the material. Finally, don't skip class. Lecture makes the book make sense.
No taking other science classes combined with chemistry. Spend a lot of time for preparation. Consider going to Science Tutoring Center for help.
Get ahead early. Everything you learn builds on the last thing, so having the basics down will pay off.
Understand all of the homework when you turn it in because it relates a lot to the exams.
Be attentive in class. Do the assigned homework and ask questions if you do not follow. Do the extra credit work as this helps you to practice more problems. Study and prepare in advance for the exam as it will be really helpful.
Go to SI and tutoring even if you don't think you have a question, just go and do Q&A sheets while you have other students and aides around to help if you get stuck.
Go to the SI sessions because they are very helpful in understanding the material and if you have problems on the homework. Take advantage of the tutoring lab because it is helpful having the one-on-one attention when trying to understand the material. When you don't understand something, don't push it to the side, make sure to get clarity as soon as possible because the material builds on each other. Try to review the material, starting from the beginning, a little at a time so you're not cramming for the final.
Attend every class. Always try your hardest to be prepared for the weekly quizzes. The Q&A sheets are very helpful and they are a great tool for studying and learning the material.
Don't mess around. Do the homework and the extra credit is good for more than points.
Really devote the appropriate amount of time to this class. Studying is the key to success, you need to know the material and then some to do well on exams. Also, always do your homework!
You really will live and breathe chemistry. Use all the resources you are given because they really will be your life saver.
Always study before every test and do all the homework. Also, go to every lab so you never have to make it up.
Learn to use Professor Tracey's handouts effectively, especially Things to Know - it is not just a layout of what we will cover, but it is a crucial stugy guide/checklist. Professor Tracey will not trick you, take good notes from the board and examples given and take special notice of what she says you will/won't need to know. Leave lots of time for homework and practice - even if you usually don't have to spend a lot of time studying for other classes, you probably will for CHE 111! Practice, practice, practice!
Approach with conscientious work habits. This course will require a considerable amount of effort on you part. You must be willing to accept the challenge. If you do accept, and you feel you are getting behind, immediately consult with your professor, and/or the tutoring center to ensure that you do well. Motivation and self-discipline are the keys to your academic success.
Note cards are your friends. Studying a little bit each day will be very helpful.
First, start the homework early, so you can ask questions at SI sessions. Second, go to SI sessions. Third, do all the Q&A sheets for extra credit and practice. And fourth, srite very, very tiny on your index card. Good luck.
Take advantage of all the extra help available, and if you don't understand something ask for help right away because if you wait too long, you will get behind and your grade will reflect on that.
Students should study and write good notes as well as go to SI.

Spring 2015
Always study the material, even though you may understand the material you should just nlightly review it. Take it from a student who has taken CHE 111 once before.
Do everything you need to do to make sure you fully understand the material. Such as the Q&A worksheets, practice problems in the textbook, attending SI sessions, or joining a study group. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to complete assignments (homework and labs); you won't finish them as quickly as you think you will.
This is a tough course, but it is not impossible to do well in the class. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to focus and study for CHE 111, because there's a lot of material you go through. Q&A sheets are extremely helpful, as they give you practice questions that help prep you for exams. Go over the "Things to Know" sheet and keep up with the material. Don't get behind, and make sure you understand concepts, because in chemistry, the material builds on itself.
Study and go to SI as much as you can. Memorize everything that you are told to.
Don't wait until the last minute to study. Also, believe the teacher when she says you need a lot of practice in order to really know how to do the work. The Q&A sheets are a lot of help.
Attend SI as much as possible. Accept that chemistry will need a lot of time out of your life in order to do well. The Q&A sheets are one of the best methods for practice - do them!
Take notes in class. Dr. Tracey explains the concepts in a way that is easier to understand than by just reading the book.
Do all of the Q&A sheets and make sure you can do everything in the Things to Know.
Don't miss any class whatsoever. The lessons build on each other and a hole is a hard thing to fill.
Work as many practice problems as you have time for or until you can do the problems without having to look anything up.
Take good notes. Listen to the instructor's helpful tips like "read the question again before you write your final answer." Think about what is actually happening in a reaction or in a problem instead of only applying a formula or following steps.
Do the homework, review what you got wrong, make sure you can do it correctly, and study and practice these concepts before tests. Don't just know equations, know what they mean and why you are using them because with a comprehension of the concepts, you can think your way through a problem if you get stuck.
Attend every class and take detailed notes. Work practice problems and complete the Q&A sheets. Also, make connections in the course to be able to review concepts and check practice problems.
Pat attention in the class. Do the homework and try to understand what you are doing. If you don't understand ask the professor, classmates, or SI. Q&A sheets are totally helpful. Do not study for exams one day before exam day. You will definitely screw up your grade.
Do all of the Q&A sheets. They help prepare you for the homework and exams, and they are extra credit.
Attending lecture and lab and doing homework is not enough to understand the material. Study, practice, and practice some more to make an A.
Always do your homework and study the Things to Know packet.
Prepare yourself for the course load. Don't underestimate the class.
Do the extra credit worksheets. They take some time, but the points can help you out a lot. Don't wait to do them last minute. Always get your lab partner's phone number in lab, some of them are tricky.
Make sure you attend every class. One can easily fall behind if you often miss classes.
Studying for this class is not an option. I definitely underestimated how much is necessary for the course. Use the lab to your advantage because doing it hands on makes your lecture be supported.
Do your homework as early as possible so that you have some time to work through harder questions without rushing. Do the extra credit, and always take full notes in class.

Fall 2014
Be in class and take notes for every lecture so you have more materials to study with.  In addition, be sure to check lab reports before turning them in.
Take organized and detailed notes during the lecture.  Also arrange the notes by chapters - this really helped me when I reviewed for the exams.  Review practice problems because a lot of problems on the exams are written in very similar format.  Lastly, always make a notecard for the exam.
Study every day!
The extra credit is worth it.  It helps you study for the exams, and boosts your exam grade a little.
Get to know people in your class and get their phone numbers to ask them questions when the professor is unavailable.  Also, ask questions if you're confused because a strong foundation is necessary.
Do all fo the Q&A's and book work.  Always study a lot and when you think you've studied enough, study more.
I think the most important advuce is to always be prepared.  Meaning, do the practice problems, review the notes taken in class, use the textbook (it is definitely a helpful reference book), and do all homeworks.  Everything offered is useful in being successful.
Take good notes, review your notes daily, practice problems over and over, ask questions when you don't understand, and sit in the front of the classroom.  Also, I would recommend doing at least 5 Q&A sheets weekly or biweekly.
Do everything you can to grasp the material.  Such as doing the Q&A sheets, textbook problems, review your class notes, and read the textbook.
Look up anything you didn't understand from lecture on Kahn Academy.  Also, do the extra credit worksheets suggested on the homework.
Review notes, do the practice problems and extra credit, and ask questions.  All that really helps keep everything straight and it's really helpful in understanding the material.
Make sure you are able to do practice problems without assistance and understand it for each type of problem of the "Things to Know" sheet.
Come to class to see the examples the instructor gives.  Work out each type of problem several times and go over conceptual information before each exam.
Do all Q&A sheets for chapters before the exams.  Spend time reading each section before class starts.  Take good notes in class and always go to class.
Don't do it!  Drop it before you cannot get your money back!  No, just kidding.  This class is awesome.  Coming from someone who despises science and only took it because it had math but a week into it the subject matter, the material caught fire.  There is a method to chemistry's madness.  The instructor is there to teach but can't make you learn.  You must supplement this material with the book, youtube, whatever gets it through to you.  DON'T QUIT.  Stay consistent in your studies.
Prioritize and do as much work for this class as you can.  Do practice problems, so to SI, or get a tutor if you are struggling.  Don't give up on this class so easily because there are many ways to get help in understanding, and there are many people willing to help.  Always do the homework, and study, study, study.
Be able to devote a good amount of time to chemistry outside of class.  Study, a lot and continuously throughout the semester.  If you are told to memorize something, memorize it!
Study A LOT!  Don't take another hard class in the same semester as CHE 111.  You have to devote a lot of your study time to chemistry.  I'd recommend doing all the Q&A sheets and the practice problems in the textbook. 
Go to study groups in the library.  If you have enough time, do the Q&A sheets.  Don't be a full time student and have a job too.
Study hard, take good notes, pay attention to lectures, and do as much practice as possible

Spring 2014
My advice would be to stay on top of everything, obviously, because this material can sprint away from you.  I'd say the trick is doing a little homework, a little lab, and a little test prep every single day.  Chemistry isn't about memorization, it's getting concepts/systems into your head.  It build on itself.  You can't skip a section of the coursework and move forward.
Don't be intimidated by the class or the classwork.  If you pay attention and persist, it will start to make sense.  If you are taking Prof. Tracey's class, make use of the handouts, practice problems, and Things to Know sheet.
Do not take another hard science class that requires a lot of memorization on top of it.  I would also suggest studying a lot and make flash cards.
Practice, practice, practice because even if you understand the general, overall concepts of the course, that doesn't necessarily mean you'll understand how to apply the information when asked questions about it.  So it is very important to get as much practice in as possible with answering the types of questions you'll more than likely encounter on the tests so that way your thought process will be better prepared for the actual exams themselves.
Learning chemistry is a lot like learning a foreign language or a musical instrument.  You must understand concepts and practice the material many times to master it.  Do the Q&A Sheets, extra textbook problems, and attend SI, even if you think you understand the concepts from lecture.  The "pathways for working stoichiometry problems" diagrams in the textbook were very handy for working out which tools I needed to solve problems.  Check the Things to Know sheet when reviewing for exams.
Be sure to do ALL the homework assignments since the exams are very similar.
Make sure to have good notes from class.  Do the homework.
This class involves more work and effort than most college classes, so be prepared to put a lot of time into it and make sure you go to class if you want to succeed.
Do the Q&A Sheets.  Yes, they're time consuming, but they're worth it.  I did them for the extra credit, but I learned after the first one I did that the practice made me perform better on my exams.  The gain is two-fold; you do better on exams and you get bonus points.
I would not take any other hard class with a lab along with chemistry.  I would also recommend doing a lot of practice problems and figuring out your mistakes on the homework so you do well on the exam.  The Q&A Sheets helped me study for the exams.
You need to invest a lot of time.  If you like to solve problems for a long time, you will like it, but if you don't like algebra, you will get in trouble.  Take algebra first, and then take chemistry next.
Study the material as much as you can.  Also, don't take it with any other science classes so that you can dedicate time to it.  Don't think that just doing the homework will help you learn the material.  Use all of the resources that are available to you.  If you need extra help, don't be afraid to ask for it.
Always get five of those Q&A Sheets done before a test.  They are great for review, and you get extra credit.

Fall 2013
You must do more than homework and go to class to be successful.  Use all available resources, and set aside dedicated time for chemistry.
Stay on top of it!  Very few things have been hard.  Utilize handouts and don't procrastinate.  The trick is to turn everything in and show up to class.  The material itself is easy, it's just the rate at which you are expected to learn it that makes this class extremely challenging.
Take advantage of every or any tutor resources that are available.  I found these very helpful in receiving extra help with problems and working in small groups to work on assignments.  In addition, and most important, listen, really listen to the professor when she tells the students to read the Things to Know handout and read the textbook chapters prior to each lecture.  The lab videos that are available were also very helpful to preview prior to lab classes.
Keep on top of your assignments, and go over them after you get them back.  I have greatly come to appreciate being able to go over homework and test questions with the posted solutions. Also, I recommend doing the Q&A's and chapter reviews.  Not only are they extra credit, they also provide an excellent study tool.
If you have little to no experience in chemsitry, you should drop out while you can get a refund, and sign up for CHE 011.
Don't take things too seriously.
Study, study, study.  Do ALL of the homework and extra credit.
Definitely make time for this class.  Do the Q&A's and always ask questions.  Remember that perfect practice makes perfect.
Take this course by itself if you can.  Most, if not all, of your time is focused on this course.  Don't make your GPA or other class work suffer, take this with easy other classes or by itself.  There is no easy way to pass, you have to do the work and apply yourself.
Make sure you have enough time for the class.  Study wise.  Make sure you get help when you need it.  The practice problems and homework help you understand and learn concepts better.
Have a select couple of days to devote to studying and homework.  You need to put aside at least three hours of those days for chemistry.
Sit in the front row during class and utilize AACC resources including SI and getting a tutor.  Do as much extra credit as possible, before attempting homework.
Use all resources given to you such as tutoring center, SI, and one-on-one tutoring.  Do all homework and don't wait until the last minute to study for a test.
Take your time on the homework.  Really learn the basics.  Go to every lab.
Study a lot and do the practice problems as well as the homework for extra practice.
Make sure you pay attention to every detail and study every chance you get.  Focus on making your test notecard the best you can, and memorize what you're supposed to.  Always do your homework and take advantage of study sessions.
Try not to procrastinate and attend SI.  Form a student/homework group.
Do every Q&A sheet right after the chapter has been taught.  They are very helpful and they can earn extra credit.
Do all the Q&A sheets and don't hesitate to get tutoring.  I'm a straight "A" student and I have struggled through chemistry.
Take advantage of all opportunitites to practice as many problems relevant to the assignments as possible, especially if it is material you will be tested on later.  Just being able to understand concepts is simply not enough.  The ability to apply the concepts under the duress of a testing situation becomes less time-consuming and less stressful when one has had practice.
Make sure you study regularly by practicing calculations and remembering formulas and relationships.
Do not take CHE 111 if you are not interested in chemistry.  If it is a requirement for your degree and you don't enjoy learning chemistry, it is going to be very difficult.
Keep on top of the work and don't wait until the last minute to study or do the homework.  Attending class is a must.  Complete the Q&A problems and read the book!
Devote a lot of time practicing problems outside of class.  That's how I personally do well in this class.
Make sure you review the Things to Know sheet.  Make sure to do relevant practice problems and look at the corrections Professor Tracey puts on your homework.
Do not rely on your index card for exams.  You must know how to apply the formulas to get the right answer.
Come to EVERY class and take notes!  I would not have been able to do my homework or study as well for exams without those notes.  Also, make sure you do ALL the homeworks and get help right away if you don't understand something.  Also, be prepared to spend A LOT of time every week on chemistry!  If you do all of this and pay attention in lecture and lab then you will be fine.  It's a lot of work, but it's worth it.
Really set aside a lot of time outside of class to study for the class and do practice problems.  Look over the homework solutions and take note of the comments that are written on the graded assignments.  I found that to be helpful.
Spend time on chemistry daily.  It gets overwhelming even if you take just one day off!  Do homework, Q&A sheets, and form a good study group also.
Read the Things to Know sheet.  It will help you so very very much.
Plan to study and do homework for at least 4-6 hours a week.  Don't get behind.  Get help if you don't understand something.  Make your notecards for your test as you go through each chapter.  Start the homework early.
Do lab and lecture homework within a day or two upon receiving it.  Schedule your time accordingly and don't take more than one other upper-level course with this course.
Do all of the homework, and Q&A's, but also review the Things to Know sheets before exams.
Do the extra credit work.  Start it on the first week.  You finish one Q&A sheet? Do another.  Do problems from the book.  It'll help not only your exam scores, but everything - even your lab grade.  Don't wait until the last few weeks to turn the extra credit in, either.
Don't get behind and do all the homework.  Complete the Q&A sheets.  Do as much extra credit work as you can - the practice is worth it.
The Things to Know packet will help so much when preparing for tests.  Take it seriously.  A lot of the topics are on the tests, especially the names of scientists.
Study hard and do all your homework for great review.
Attend every class, take clear notes, attend SI sessions, do the homework early, get tutoring at the first sign of trouble, and form study groups with classmates.
Do all homeworks and Q&A sheets.  Study for all exams.  Don't miss any quizzes or homeworks.
Work hard, study hard, do Q&A sheets, fill your notecard as much as possible, do lots of practice problems, do ALL homework, and check solutions for ones you got wrong.
Make sure you have the time devoted to your studies.  It is a great class if you put the time into it.
Review your notes before each class.  Practice problems, especially things you don't understand.

Spring 2013
Find a study group - it's a good indicator of where you're at because to be able to teach others how to work out a problem you have to have a pretty good understanding of it yourself
Do all Q&A's, study lecture covered material, and homework is the key to success.
Devote enough time to the class studying.
Make time to do all the homework. Try to keep up with the new material. Join a study group if you have time.
Be prepared for a lot of work! And if you don't understand something, ask about it, immediately!
This class its a tough course. Stay on top of all the work, study, and review your notes frequently. The homework and quizzes help a lot if you take the time to understand them. I highly recommend taking advantage of the Q&A sheets, they helped me prepare for the tests. This is not a class where you cram the night before and you will be fine for the test. You have to start studying at least a week in advance. Take good notes, write down EVERYTHING!. Dr. Tracey gives great examples during lecture that will help you out with homework. I also recommend taking advantage of the Tutoring Center and paying good attention in labs. Overall it's a great class, and if you stay on top of your work, if you are taking other courses, really learn to balance and manage your time, and take good clear notes, you should do fine. Good luck!
Do extra practice problems, review all homework before exams, and study your lecture notes.
Make sure you really need this class. You might only need CHE 115 instead.
Do the Q&A's, read the chapters you do not understand in class, ask questions, do not be afraid to make a study group, study with friends to fill the gaps you may have missed in lecture, and make note cards on the first day with the darn cations and anions! To this day I study those cards almost every night, and I thought I had excellent memory, but I still get them confused!
Study for this class in most of your spare time. This class takes a lot of supplemental work and teaching yourself the material. Start the homework early so there is time to ask questions and take advantage of emailing or asking the instructor for help. Lastly, studying for tests is a month-long process, so start early.
Take good notes in class. Don't hesitate to ask for clarification if there is anything you miss or don't understand.
Look over your notes every day, get a tutor right away if you don't understand something, and do the question and answer problems.
Don't overload your schedule and workload. Make sure not only that there is time for study, but also time for relationships and for rest. Study and knowledge is good, but it should not become the ultimate thing.
Do as many Q&A sheets as possible. It helps you become familiar with the equations and different scenarios and really makes the exames less stressful. Study with someone else that's currently taking the class or get in a study group. Talking about the course material with other people will help you understand and remember it more easily. Also, start reviewing for exams about two weeks in advance - do practice problems, make flash cards, etc. It really helps and you won't regret the time your invest.
Your exam card has limited space, so use it wisely. To the Q&A sheets. the extra credit is great, but honing your skills in this class will really save you. Get a study buddy, two heads are better than one! Don't get stuck on any one thing, get help right away or you'll continue to make the same mistakes throughout the semester.
Just study.
Stay organized, keep all of your old graded work, and print and go over all the homework and test solutions.
Take good notes in class, study the notes and homework ahead of time before the exams.
Do all of the homework and the Q&A sheets. These make the tests much easier. Homework is usually more difficult than the exam. Memorize the necessary cations and polyatomic anions, that makes the class ten times easier!!! It takes work, but it's worth it.
Start studying fir tests well before the date of the test. Make sure you spend time on homework to help practice. Make sure you read over your Things to Know before taking a test.
Do all the homework, attend every class, ans use extra resources for help. For students like myself, who have not had a chemistry class in over 6 years, review the basics before the semester starts.
Study from day one, do not put anything off even if you think you have the time.
Taking good notes in class helps a lot when you go to study for your tests and even for homework. Do all of your homeworks! Also, I think doing Q&A sheets gives you good practice when you are reviewing. If you memorize the things you need to memorize (polyatomic ions, conversions) , you will do much better on quizzes.
Practice is the key to success in this class. The more practice you do the better you will do on exams and homeworks, in addition to quizzes. Also, it is important to begin studying about a week in advanced for exams.

Fall 2012
If you don't have the time or energy to devote several hours to the homework each week, several hours to the lab reports each week, and several hours studying/practicing for the tests and quizzes, drop the class and take it when you do have the time and energy.  Also, the Q&A sheets might not be worth much extra credit, but the extra practice is invaluable, and will give you the experience needed to do well on the tests.
Do a lot of practice problems.  The more you see a concept or problem solved, the more you understand it.  CHE 111 is not hard unless you're not putting forth the effort to try and learn it.
Work hard and study throughout the entire semester, not just towards finals.  Similar to math classes, chemistry is additive in the sense that it adds on to itself.  You must have a good understanding of the basics to move on to more advanced material.  The basics are used in the more advanced material, and it is use the entire semester.
First of all, I would advise students to not take this course lightly regarding the amount of time required to keep up with homework and study for exams.  It is not a phone-in class.  I would suggest that they carefully consider the complexity and workload of other classes and commitments they have during the same time taking CHE 111.  Not all credits are created equal.  CHE 111 easily required twice the amount fo time and effort that any two general education classes combined have taken.  Plan out time in advance for attending tutoring sessions.  If you do not have a solid background in high school chemistry and math, arrange for a tutor from the very beginning of the class.  Work as many extra credit problems as possible; more so because this will help you better understand the material.  The extra points are a bonus.  Get into a study group right from the start of the course.  The sooner you build your chemistry help support network, the better chance you have of being successful.  I would recommend you seek help right away if there's anything you do not understand.  I'd suggest that if you are serious about taking a degree path that requires CHE 111 and beyond, shop for an instructor wisely.  Look for an instructor that will give you the best value for your buck, not simply ones who may be easier.  Lastly, I would recommend taking the course with Dr. Tracey.  Pass or not, I'm convinced I got the best value for the time I was able to put into this course of instruction.
Attendance and doing the homework are key in this class.  Also, if you work to understand and relate the lab to the topics covered in lecture, this helps a lot!  Dr. Tracey does an awesome job of providing extra help on her website as well.
Plan on studying all the time.  Make sure you have enough time to study or take the class another time.  If you are not right out of high school chemistry, I would recommend that you take CHE 011 as a refresher course.  Last but not least, brush up on your algebra before you start the course.
Review Q&A sheets.  They are very helpful for practice.
Complete all homework because understanding the homework will reflect your grade.  Also, try and relate the material to something you're interested in, this will also increase your understanding.
Study a lot.  Utilize SI and tutoring.
Take good notes because the textbook is terrible.  Do many practice problems, especially extra credit before tests so you benefit from both.
Really look over the Things to Know sheets before the test.  Also, commit to learning the anions, it saves so much time.  Also, what helped me the most was, if I was confused on a topic, I would look it up on YouTube - this is very helpful because they give detailed explanations that you can pause and rewind. Or if you have an I-phone, get Khan Academy.
Expect a challenging course.  I know that I am good at working out problems with an example in front of me, but I easily confuse formulas or steps on a test, so I would encourage you to seek help if you have the same problems.  Homework is also extremely helpful, but only if you do it and review it once you get it back, so you can note your mistakes.
Don't save homework assignments until the last minute.  Study for exams ahead of time.  Do all the homeworks, they are great preparation for quizzes and exams.  Use the Science Tutoring Center.
Study a lot.  Stay focused and pay attention.  Ask questions.
Be prepared for the next class.  Easy at the start, but gets harder and builds on top of one another, so be prepared at all times.
Don't miss class!  After you leave class with a homework assignment, sit down and do it as soon as you can.  Do all of the questions on the Q&A sheets.  You get some extra credit and it helps you prepare for exams.  Don't wait until the last minute to study for exams.  Keep up with the material throughout the semester.  Good luck!
Even though the class will get tougher, don't give up.  You never know if it'll get easier (which it did for me).  Tough it out, keep trying.  Study your notes (especially naming compounds/acids/etc).  Put everything you've got into it, and you will not fail.  Lastly, when the instructor says "study for at least12 hours for the class, tests, and such" DO IT!  It will all pay off!
Be prepared to study a lot.  Find a few other students to study with so you have others to motivate you.  What you don't think is going to be on the test will more than likely be on the test.  Good luck!
Study after every class.  Do extra credit worksheets.  Go to SI or get a tutor.  This class requires a lot of outside work, especially if you're not very good at chemistry or haven't had it in awhile.
Take notes, open your ears, and switch on your brain.  Do the homework, practice all you can, study for quizzes.
Attend all classes, do all the homework, and have fun in lab.
Do the extra credit assignments, they will probably come in handy toward the end of the semester.  Also, take advantage of the free help offered at AACC.
Chemistry is building blocks much like math.  If you take the time to master the basics, the more complicated problems will be much easier.
Review all homework problems and all Q&A sheets before every exam.  The problems in the book do not reflect the problems that are given on the exam.  Definitely read the textbook for help, but really understand the homework and Q&A sheet problems because they reflect the format used by the professor.  I did well in lecture and had serious problems with the lab reports, but have absolutely no advice to reflect why I did so poorly in lab but understood everything and performed well in all lecture assignments.  I did well with independent study, but did attend a few SI and chemistry club tutoring sessions and the leaders were absolutely fantastic and helpful.  Amongst the best I have ever experienced.
There are two main things I would suggest.  1)  Read the book BEFORE coming to class.  This will allow class to help solidify what you read.  2) Plan out your notecard that you can use on exams way ahead of time.  Often I found myself scrambling to finish the card before the test.
Read the textbook.
Grind it out!  CHE 111 is a hard class that comes with a lot of work and sacrifices need to be made in order for you to get the grade you want, but it can be achieved, so do not give up.  I tried to take CHE 111 last semester along with physics and biology, and it was nearly impossible, so I dropped chemistry because I thought it was too hard.  I have always been an honor roll student, I am on the Dean's list, and am a member of the Phi Beta Kappa honor society at AAC, and this class even got the best of me.  I thought all summer about the way I went out and it upset me, so I came back determined to succeed, and I believe I have.  This class requires dedication but is very rewarding in the end, and is one where you can actually look back at where you started and see how much you have learned.  There will be times when you will feel overwhelmed, but there are many people around you who want you to succeed and many places to go for help, so just stay the course, and grind it out.
Notes are your best friend, copy everything you see.
Do the extra credit!!  The practice is very valuable in learning the material, and the extra points are a bonus.  If you don't understand something, use your resources and reach out immediately.  Most lessons are compounding so it is important to learn the required material before moving forward.
Study, study, study.  Practice, practice, practice.  Ask questions.
Actually study.  This isn't your high school chemistry class.  In the beginning, I laughed at the projected study time needed.  I didn't study and did poorly.  Judging by the previous homework question, I feel I need to study yet again, which leads me to point 2...  Don't procrastinate because right now this homework is due today, so I don't have time to re-study, which defeats point 1.
Make sure you have enough time put aside in order to finish all of the homework for the class.
Read the textbook!  The examples are especially helpful.  Also, remember that chemistry is a system and that it all fits together.  Try to connect all the ideas that you can.
Make sure all your basic algebra skills are good, and memorize the ions really well.  I remembered them best by grouping them by charge.
Study.  Do as many practice problems as you can.  Read the book, then re-read the book.  Also, make sure that you have enough time for this class in your schedule.
Pay attention in class.  Sit in the front so you are less likely to be distracted.  Study hard for exams!  Make sure to understand the concepts.  Use an index card for the exams - useful tool.  Find a study buddy.  Make little summary sheets for each unit exam to help you on the final.  Stay after, go online, use the internet, find a tutor - anything you need to help you out.
Take detailed notes.  Study!  Stay ahead of the game - read future chapters.  Complete all 400 extra credit problems.  Pay attention to the Things to Know handout.  Complete all labs - they help you understand material a lot.  Come to every class.
Practice the math problems over and over.  Review notes every day.
Make sure you are very comfortable with dimensional analysis and know how to name acids.
Make sure you go to every class and do as many Q&A sheets as possible.
Do as many practice problems as possible, go for extra help when unsure about anything, and do your best to never miss class.
Make sure you manage your time wisely and dedicate time for chemistry.  Also, ask questions and do the homework!
Pay attention and take notes - it's not a very difficult class otherwise.
Write down every example that is discussed in class.  This will help with working through homework.  It will also make studying for tests easier.
Go to class.
Dedicate at least 2 hours of study time for just doing the homework, and try to do the extra credit worksheets to help review.
Don't procrastinate anything you can do now, and take advantage of extra credit.
STUDY!  And when you are done, STUDY more!  Also, I found that when I did not have time for tutoring, I found YouTube very helpful.

Spring 2012
1. Master your scientific calculator before class starts.  If you have not taken a math class recently, you probably should.
2.  If you have never had chemistry in either HS or college (I had not), take CHE 011 first and don't be ashamed to do so.  I learned the hard way.  I have a BS and an MS from a prestigious four year state university and this course is one of the toughest I've taken.
3.  DO NOT underestimate the time this course takes!  For me, 12 hours a week between homework, lab preps and lab reports was not enough time to complete everything.  This is really more like a 5 credit hour course unless you are quite familiar with the material and are very smart.  If it is easy for you, you can always add an 8 week course halfway through the semester.
4.  DO use Dr. Tracey's website, handouts and suggestions.  They are all very helpful.
5.  If you can, take Dr. Tracey's lab while in her lecture.  I recommend doing so.  Every bit of reinforcement helps!
6.  Use Dr. Tracey's chat to help you with lab and homework.  She won't give you the answers, but will point you in the right direction.
6.  Do all the extra credit you can.  It really helps in test preparation.
Do all the homework, come to as many classes as possible, do extra credit.
Work in bits every day rather than cramming work in all at once.
Spend more time on doing practice exercises than reading notes.  Because when you read you tend to understand everything, but when you work on exercises you encounter difficulties.  Also, it's better to do those exercises on a daily basis in order to ask questions to your instructor way before any exam.
Spend enough time studying as it takes to understand the material.
Always do your homework and try at least some of the book questions and the Q&A questions.  Working with the equations and concepts is how you learn them.  I would also recommend as a way to study for exams that you redo all the homeworks pertaining to that exam and check them against the solutions to make sure you know the material.  It will also help you to identify what you really know and what you need to study more and/or put on your notecard.  You can also do book problems or Q&A problems for extra practice.
Do the extra credit every week.  It gives you a lot of practice and adds up over time.  It's something I would take advantage of if I were to take the class again.
Seek help early and go to as many SI sessions as possible.  Review the homework solutions - it clarifies a lot if you don't understand the homework.
Take great notes because they are very helpful to complete homework and to study for quizzes and exams.
Go over notes frequently after class.  When doing my homework, the class notes helped a lot.  Also I used my book.  Don't expect because this is general chemistry for it to be easy.  It's a tough course with a lot of material but chemistry is the base of all things science.
Buy and use the Study Guide.  It takes concepts from lecture and condenses them.
Use all the resources available.  Also, seek out other resources not provided by AACC, because it can't hurt to supplement with other books or videos.
Do a LOT of practice problems from the book and make sure you understand all the homework problems.  That'll make it easier to do the tests.
Memorize everything that Dr. Tracey tells you to memorize.  Do all the extra credit.  Do all the homework and study the homework (very much like test).  Study for all quizzes and memorize all polyatomic and monatomic ions.
Practice!  If you don't try at least 10-20 problems a week, you are not doing all you can.

Fall 2011
Don't fall behind in any work because everything you learn, you use for the rest of the semester.  Also, DO the extra credit.  I wish I would have.  Lastly, study well in advance before exams and use the flashcard Dr. Tracey allows for every exam and the final.
Spend more time practicing chemistry problems and read the book besides the teacher's notes.
Buy the binder version of the textbook.  Not only is it cheaper, but you can remove the reference sections and store them in your binder.  This is especially helpful when some of the homework requires you to reference the textbook.
Attend every class and check the homework solutions online to see what you should study for a test.
Practicing problems helped me a lot and I never give up on myself.  Just keep on practicing the problems and go to a science tutoring center to get some help.  Attend all classes and pay attention in the class.
Do the Q&A Sheets.  They really do help!  Practice problems for all assignments are key to understanding and grasping the steps to problems.
Study, study, and study!  Note cards and practice problems are a must. 
Study, study, study!  If at first you struggle and don't feel you can pass, retake it!  It helps you better understand things.  Also, do NOT leave anything to the last minute.  And do a lot of extra credit! 
Make sure you understand the homework problems well because if you understand and study the homework, the tests are easy.
Don't give up!  It really does get better with practice, there is just a learning curve.  Also, plan to spend more time working on it each week than is recommended.
Take notes obsessively.  It will benefit you in homework assignments, studying for tests, and keep you awake during long lectures.
This is definitely a class you need to work at to understand.  Do a lot of practice problems.  If you don't understand, ask!  Extra credit helps a lot.
Review the material from the beginning throughout the entire semester, not just before the exam, especially polyatomic ions.
Previous chemistry experience helps a lot.  Don't miss a single lecture and pay close attention.  Make sure you are able to do any type of calculation that might be given on a test.  Make sure you have conversions and significant figures completely down; you will need these skills throughout the entire course.  Do every homework problem.
Study, study, and study.  The biggest thing is doing well on tests.  Do the homework because the homework is worth a lot and it is good to practice and study from.
CHE 111 is not an easy course.  Without a strong interest in chemistry, it is very hard to keep up.  I would advise you to spend most of your time studying for this class.  As long as you have an instructor that knows what he/she is talking about, you should do fine.
Do all the homework, even if you're unsure whether you are doing them correctly.  Always check the homework solutions.  READ, READ, READ the textbook as many times as needed.  Do even more practice problems with corresponding Q&A Sheets.  Relax, have an open mind, ask questions, and most importantly, HAVE FUN!  Also, utilize the evening chat sessions online, they help.
Do all the extra credit/practice problems.  Go to all the tutoring sessions possible.
You need to check homework solutions to understand what you did wrong, and for exams.  And do practice problems.  Sit down and actually study. 
1. Put the Ions to Know and Conversion Factors to Know handouts in plastic page protectors - you will use them often until you memorize them.  2. Put important formulas, etc on a notecard early, and keep it handy - this will allow you to work more practice problems more quickly which will help you to memorize the formulas and other information efficiently, by practicing.  3. Buy colored pens or pencils to help keep notes and diagrams readable.  4. Your notes are your best resource for figuring out the homework so take good notes!
STUDY!  STUDY!  STUDY!  Do as many practice problems as you can, and then do more!
The lectures are invaluable - DON'T MISS THEM.  Be sure to read the text thoroughly.  It contains a lot of details that can't be crammed into a lecture.  PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE.  Do as much as possible.  Be sure to memorize the polyatomic ions list.
Do the homework, don't wait until the last minute to make your notecard for exams, do Q&A Sheets, and study for exams.
Make sure you go over the day's notes after you get home to make sure you understand what was gone over.  Go over the Things to Know sheet as you read through the chapters.  Print off the homework solutions and review that with any problems you get wrong on the homework.
Start the extra credit right away.  It will really help you.  Always read the labs and go through them before you get to class.
1.  Go to any available student instruction sessions or attend the Science Tutoring Center regularly.  Most students are having the same problems as you and it helps to study and learn new material with peers.  2.  Do the Q&A papers.  They have answers so you can see where you are making mistakes.
Do all the homework plus the extra credit.  And make sure to know every section because the material builds on itself.  And memorize the list of ions - right away!  Lastly, get help if needed, and do not hesitate .  The Tutoring Center is very helpful as well as study groups.
Keep looking back at the homework solutions posted to solve something you need help on and to keep old lessons fresh.
DO the extra credit, actually spend hours studying daily, and don't let your guard down just because you can use an index card on tests.
Know your ions.  Don't panic on test day - rely on what you know.
Do all your homework.
Take good notes during class, and make sure to use them while doing homework and also to study for a quiz or test.
Get all the help you need from all the resources available.  Ask early and ask often, even if you're super annoying.  At least you will understand the material and do well.  And buy a big eraser.
Attend every lecture and focus/take good notes.  Work on homework right away, because you will have questions that you will need to make time to get answered (tutoring).  Take advantage of the free tutoring.  Work on extra credit (it will come in handy). 
Do ALL the homework and review the correct answers.  It helps with finding your weak points and correctly them.  The correct answers worked out helps monumentally!
Do the homework before the due dates.  I often run out of time.  The Q&A Sheets provide all the practice you need to do well.  Make sure you can do all the homework problems for the test.
Put study time in religiously.  Try to keep things simple.  Memorize anions and cations.  Get really good at stoichiometry and dimensional analysis.  Points lost from significant figures will add up over the semester.  The lab manual can help simplify some procedures (especially Lewis structures).  Flask cards - this is the only class they've ever worked for me.  Teach someone that has no idea about chemistry (I taught my mom) - that helps you remember steps better.
Only take this class if you are good at math and have an enthusiastic view on learning chemistry.
Take intro to chemistry first.  Also, do extra credit, it helps me study.
Don't get married in the middle of the semester.  Learn how to manage your time.  Make sure you have enough time to study.
Attend every lecture.  You are given everything you need to complete homework problems and do well on exams.  The material is presented in a way that seems very refined.  The lectures were very easy to understand and the notes given were very helpful in completing assignments.  Look over homework assignments long before they are due.  Some homework assignments take much more time to complete than others.

Spring 2011
Take the same lab teacher as your lecture teacher.  Do all extra credit points.
Study a ridiculous amount and do ALL the homework.
Make sure that you do a lot of practice problems, do all of the Q&A sheets that are given out.  Also, go to SI, they really help.
Make sure you know and understand the homework so that you will succeed on the exams easily.  Also, go to SI, they really do help.  Do all the extra credit.
Do a lot of supplemental problems, and do them well before exams because they are time consuming!!
Study homework solutions.
Read the textbook and do practice problems prior to the lecture covering each topic.
Take notes during class, pay attention, and never miss a lecture.  The book does not explain nearly as well as Dr. Tracey does.
Do practice problems.  Pay attention in class.  Do not save homework/labs until the night before.  Use/take advantage of 3x5 cards on tests.
Do your homework, take good notes that are accurate and detailed, always take the same professor for lab and lecture, and never miss class.
It takes a lot of time and effort to do well in this course.  Like you are told, about 12 hours a week of studying and doing extra problems is necessary.  Doing extra problems is key and helps to solidify what you are learning.  A lot of material is covered, so coming to class is important as well as reading the text.
Get into the habit of doing practice problems early on in the semester, because at some point, you will need practice on one of the topics covered.  Always come to class and write down everything.
Attend every class because everything learned in this class builds on the last thing.  AND MEMORIZE IONS.
Make sure you go to all of the lectures and labs, take good notes, pay close attention, and make sure to study hard by doing all of the homework and doing Q&A sheets.
Make sure you do all the homework.  It really helps on the exams.  Even though it seems a lot it's good practice and you're better prepared.  And take the same lecture and lab professor.
1.  Don't miss class.  2.  Don't miss class.  3.  Do the homework.  4.  Don't wait until the last minute to get work done.  5.  Google is awesome.
CHE 111 is a very interesting, but rather hard course.  In order to succeed in this class, you need to come to the class regularly, take good notes, and study a LOT!  Homework and extra credit assignments really help because they will guide you to how well you know the subject, and what else you need to do in order to improve.  Chemistry requires a lot of dedication and time, so you need to be aware of the time you need for this course.
Make sure you have the TIME to dedicate.  Keep up on the homework and extra credit.  Use extra credit to study - it's a great help and extra points on exams.  Do not fall behind, buddy up with classmates when studying, and take the time to do everything!  The extra credit may be time consuming, but in the end, it is super helpful.  And don't be scared of lab, it's not too bad!

Fall 2010
Always attend class and take really good notes. In addition, studying the material often will help come exam time.
Study, study, study! Don’t fall behind, it will catch up with you. Be smart and stay on top of thing, it makes like a lot easier.
Always come to class and take notes. One day missed will set someone back because there is a lot of information given each class period. Also, always study for exams and do many extra problems in the book or from the Q&A sheets.
Please buy the book before you sign up for the class. It would mean as much as a letter grade change, even if you go to all the classes and take all the notes.
Do practice problems, get help if you need it, and PRACTICE!
Make sure you have the time necessary to dedicate to this course outside of class. The 12+ hours per week is a pretty good estimate in my opinion of what is required to really be successful in this course. People need to be honest with themselves and need to really assess if they are willing to make the necessary sacrifices to really put in the work. I would also advise anyone who has made the decision to take this course to use the resources on Dr. Tracey’s website, especially the Q&A sheets. They have been a big help and everyone should take full advantage of all of those resources.
Study from the beginning of the semester because you’ll never believe how much material falls together by the end of the semester.
Study more, review your notes, and so the practice problems in the book.
Don’t wait until the last minute to do your homework and lab reports. Put any information you’re not 100% comfortable with on your note card. Make sure to look over the posted homework and exam solutions.
You should know that the easiest way to succeed in class is to come to class. Missing a lecture puts you behind and you miss crucial explanations and examples. Also, taking good notes during lecture and taking the time to do practice problems for extra credit are good study habits.
Keep up with the work because if you fall behind it is hard to catch back up since the class moves quickly through the material.
Study! Study! Study! Don’t wait until the last minute to start an assignment or think you can get by without studying!!
Do your best to do all assigned work as soon as possible and ask questions as soon as they occur to prevent falling behind.
Study a lot, do the extra credit and do a lot of practice problems. Also make sure you review and study before the quizzes.
Take time to develop a strong conceptual understanding of the material. Questions involving both theory and calculations will be easier to solve if you understand what is occurring.
Do adequate practice problems. Just because they are not “required” they really are needed. Make sure the problems you do reflect the concepts in the homework in the most efficient manner. As students we do have a heavy load, so it is important to not wear yourself out with problems you already know how to do well. Do memorize the polyatomic ions and conversion factors – it makes life easier. Do not approach problems as an arduous task but as a challenge to take you to new levels of thought. Do not think you are smarter because you do not ask questions – it is in fact dumber to not. Have fun. Make brain connections to experience. Be aware of your goals, if you know chemistry is not your thing be aware of that and make it your thing.
Don’t take two science courses in one semester. Chemistry requires a lot of dedication and time, so you need to be realistic about the time you put in this course.
Really start studying early for tests because there is a lot of information. So don’t wait until the last minute or there will be too much information to remember.
Ask for help whenever needed. Always. Even if you sort of understand, make sure you fully understand.
Be nice to your classmates, you never know when they’ll be able to help make things click for you!
Study for at least the recommended time, make a study group online, and attend the homework chat.
Use note cards to memorize the ions, and put effort into practice problems.
Don’t stress. I was a student who came straight out of high school assuming CHE 111 would be easy, like my biology class, but it wasn’t. In Dr. Tracey’s class you actually learn information and you don’t just study to do “good”. Working hard is essential, but don’t become overwhelmed by the workload, it’ll be worth it in the end. Just take your time and pace yourself, whether you were a straight A student or just an average Joe. Good luck and I know you can do well. :-)
Always study and do extra work. Do not ever fall behind or you will regret it. Also, work hard – it will pay off.
It is very important to do a lot of practice problems! Practice, practice, and practice is the key. You will need to make time for this subject as it will be very time consuming. Don’t let yourself fall out of track by ignoring the little things you feel you don’t understand, or hope that you’ll somehow get it later. Get help on it right away! Do not study for the test the night before!! Give it plenty of time, do the problems from the worksheet, and the reviews from the end of the chapter, and ask for help when you need it (there are many sources for it).
Think outside the box, take good notes, remember equations and practice, especially stoichiometry.
First, most importantly, I want to stress how imperative it is to have a lot of time to devote to the class. Also, never give up. If you ever get stuck on a problem, do not get discouraged. It is very easy to find help in the book, through a friend, or even a chemistry website, plus the instructor’s office hours, SI sessions, and the Science Tutoring Center.
I would definitely recommend staying on top of the Q&A sheets because they really help to just overall build your confidence with solving problems.
When Dr. Tracey says something is “need to know” you should memorize it. Learn the anions and cations, both monatomic and polyatomic, and continue to practice them throughout the semester. Practice, practice, practice! If you are taking 12+ credits with this class, be sure you have enough time to devote to this class for study time or you may quickly fall behind. The best advice I was given was, if you cannot remember a conversion factor on a test, make it up and finish the problem for partial credit.
Prepare yourself to work really hard. If you’re not willing to put a lot of effort and time into this class, you will not make it very far. This class can be very easy if you read your notes and you take the time to do the Q&A sheets. Also, the homework is very helpful to prepare you for the exam. The most helpful advice I got for this class that has really helped me is to redo all the homework before an exam. It really helps you focus on everything you need to know.
Do all of the Q&A sheets. Do them as they are relevant to get the most out of them. Go to every class. If you struggle with algebra, you should review that as well.
Do as many practice problems as possible.
Make sure you do, or at least attempt, all of the homework assignments. Don’t miss any of the classes. Even missing one class of notes gets really confusing.
Do the homework as soon as possible after class. Never skip homework, it’s how you learn most of the material. Do the Q&A sheets and read the book. Ask if you need help – do not get behind because class moves quick!
Do not try to take this class if your last algebra class was in your distant past as you will spend most of your time struggling with the math and have little time to absorb the concepts.
You need to understand the material before you do the homework, and keep practicing.
Work hard and do everything required so that when stuff happens your grade won’t die.
Make sure you, from the beginning, complete your homework assignments. On that note, if you don’t master the material the assignments are based on, the homework problems will take that much longer. It’s a cascading effect because if you don’t master the material, the homework takes that much longer to complete. And if you aren’t able to get through your homework quickly, you’ll definitely have a hard time completing your exams in the time allowed.
Keep up, come to class, put in the time and effort to do practice problems outside of class. Be proactive if you’re having trouble because there are plenty of opportunities to succeed.
Always come to class. The material will not make sense to you otherwise. Don’t wait until the last minute for homework and tests. Always do practice problems and any extra credit given. If you put in the time, you’ll absolutely get more out of this class. It’s tough material, but it’s possible if you want it to be.
Make sure you do all of your homework. Do extra problems to help you. Do extra credit and study hard. Make flashcards for each test. Make sure you devote enough time just for this class.

Spring 2010
Do not procrastinate.  Start working on assignments when you receive them, don't wait until the last minute.  Stay on top of the work.
Read the chapter before over it in class.  Get help early if you have trouble.  Start the homework well before the night before.  Go to the online chat sessions.  Do extra credit!  Find other people in class to study with.
Understand that this is a very demanding course.  If you haven't had a recent high school chemistry or CHE 011, I would advise you to take the CHE 011 course to help prepare so once in CHE 111 you are more familiar with the material.  Be consistent from day one.  DO NOT fall behind, even a little!  It will throw you off for the rest of the semester.
Space out study time.  Studying a little each day is a good way to stay organized and learn the material. Also, learn how to balance your other classes with this class because this class requires a lot of time and effort to understand the material.
Form a study group with classmates early on in the semester, in addition to SI meetings.
Do practice problems... lots of them.
Don't get behind.  Keep up with the homework, start the homework the class you get the assignment.  Do as much as possible after each class as you learn it.  Do the Q&A's and start them early to get as many extra credit points as possible.  To do well on a test, re-do all of the homework AT LEAST once the week of the test and re-do the Q&A's and problems at the end of the chapters if enough time available.
Do not wait until the last minute to do your homework or look over and study the material.  Practice! Practice! Practice!
If you don't have the time to dedicate at least 20 hours a week to this class, don't even waste your time.  Use study groups.  And most important, read the textbook and hand write all your notes.
Study hard, work hard, do extra extra problems, turn in as much extra credit as possible, and always check back to see what you need to work on (when you get homework and tests back).
Study every chance you get, and do the extra credit.
I would encourage future CHE 111 students to focus much of their time on chemistry,  form study groups with people as soon as the semester starts, and take advantage of any extra credit opportunities.
STUDY.  Study every day and especially do the Q&A sheets and practice problems.
For future CHE 111 students, I would do them the favor that my friends did me:  I'd refer them to Dr. Tracey's website and tell them to click on every single link.  The sooner they can familiarize themselves with the material presented there, the better.  I visited the site before the end of last semester, and was able to get a head start by working through some practice problems and by reading ahead based on the posted schedule/order of covered material.
If you do not have the time, dedication, and drive to get through this class, don't waste your time.  Do not underestimate the amount of work it will take for you to do well in this class!
Always turn in homework complete and on time.  Homework points will help a lot in pulling your grade up, as well as points earned through extra credit (i.e., Review Problems, Practice Exercises, Q&A Sheets, and Chemistry Club Activities).
Do lots of practice problems!  Study well in advance for exams!  Get help if you need it.  Take advantage of extra credit.
Take this class seriously.  You don't have to overthink everything and stress yourself out if you do all the work and as much extra credit as you can.  This class requires one to think abstractly and like any math based or abstract subject, one must practice and practice.  This class is way easy if you practice all the time.
Don't skip class.  Take detailed notes in class.  Read the textbook.  Memorize everything you're told (flash cards are handy).  Practice the problems when needed so you know you understand.
ALWAYS come to class and take clear notes.  Do as many Q&A sheets as possible, they are very helpful.  Don't procrastinate whatever you do, it won't help in the long run.
Don't be overly confident in yourself.  You have to put in the hours and there is no way around it.
Keep up with the work and make sure you understand everything before you get too far behind.
Pay attention the whole 50 minutes in class, take notes, and do your homework.
My biggest and most important piece of advice for future students is GO TO CLASS!!!  Going to class is so essential to passing this class.  If I had not had good attendance, I can absolutely say that I would be failing.  Attending class gives you valuable information that you cannot get from simply reading the book.  The examples shown in class are exactly what are going to be on your homework and exams.  Without them you will spend hours rooting through your book for simple pieces of information you could have gotten from class.  Another piece of advice would be to do the absolute best you can do in the beginning of the semester.  Do this because the material you learn just gets harder and harder.  You really need to learn the basics in the beginning because everything else builds from that.  Finally, do not wait until the night before the exam to study for it.  You need to give yourself much more time than this because to do good on the exam you need to do practice problems so you actually learn how to do the problems.

Fall 2009
Don't take your professor's advice lightly.  They know what they're talking about.
Study, do homework the day you learn the material, do extra credit, study every day, treat this class like 8 credits!
If you think you have studied enough, go back and study more because enough is never enough.
Be patient.  Be very careful with your significant figures and units.  Double check your answers.
Do not procrastinate unless you want to spend all night doing your homework the night before.
For sure, study a lot!  If you get behind, go to office hours.  Get on Sunday chats, even if you don't have questions you can learn from other people.  NEVER miss a class.  Go to every lab.  Do homework ahead of time.  Take notes on everything.  Some things may seem unimportant, but everything comes into play at some point.  FOCUS the whole 50 minutes of class.
I recommend that all students participate in the online chat.  If I couldn't understand something all I had to do was ask and Professor Tracey would help me to understand.  Also take good notes!  Clear notes help a lot.
There are a few words of advice that I would offer to the future CHE 111 students.  I would recommend that they would complete all the Q&A's and do as much extra credit as possible.  I would also recommend that they do the homework throughout the week and not wait until the weekend as well as review the material throughout the week.  I would also advise them to study way in advance for all tests and to always show up to class.  I learned that procrastination and even missing one class will really hurt you.  Lastly, work hard and set aside plenty of time for this class.
Keep up with all the material and make sure you understand every chapter.  Read the book and do as many problems as you can.  Ask questions and go to the Tutoring Center for help.  Form study groups and go over material covered in class.
Don't procrastinate!  Work will very quickly jump up and surprise you.
For future CHE 111 students I highly advise them to READ the chapters and not try to just go by class notes.  Read the chapters before lectures and begin so when the professor talks about it you will better understand it.  Q&A sheets are key to success and making note cards right after you read the chapter to be able to look through them for tests.
Study a few hours each week so you don't have to cram before the tests.  Do the homework in sections and don't procrastinate.
Study a week before tests.  Utilize tutors and do all extra credit.
I would like to advise that the future students should attend every class and do homework.  And they also should prepare for class quizzes.  The Q&A from the web also may help for tests.
Do as many supplemental sheets as possible (these are very helpful for review also).  Do NOT miss class.  Do all of the homework.  Go back and review your notes regularly.  Get help as soon as you need it, don't wait.  Everything is cumulative.
Spread your homework out evenly throughout the week and study your notes regularly.  Do the Q&A sheets.  They help you learn the topics thoroughly and they're worth extra credit points.
Take very good notes, do homework, study more than you think for the tests.  Again VERY good notes!
Spend at least two hours reviewing the notes after finishing the class and go over them, making sure that everything is understood.  Also, when you can't do some problems, to to the Tutoring Center and take advantage of it as long as it's free.  Do as much extra credit as you can.  Most importantly, don't give up when you don't understand.
The main advice I would give future CHE 111 students is to make sure you have the time to study the material.  I would also encourage students to use all the possible resources (SI, Science Tutoring Center, on-line forums) that are available to them.
Use the extra credit to study, you will get points for doing something you normally would do anyway.  When life starts to ask more of your time, ask others for help, sacrifice study time as a last resort!

Spring 2009
Make time almost every day to study material that you went over in class.  Also, do as much extra credit as possible.  Finally, do the homework throughout the week.
Do all the Q&A's, they are helpful.  Take good notes.  Go to every class.
Do the Q&A sheets.  It gives you extra practice as well as extra credit.  Take good notes and ask good questions.
I would tell them to RUN!!  Just kidding - do all the Q&A's and get a personal tutor asap.
Study, study, study!  When you feel like you're not getting it, get help right away, even if it is something simple, get help.
Do all the extra credit you can, and try to do good on the homework.
If you have to take this class, go to the Tutoring Center every day.
Study in advance for the tests.  Also, try not to forget any of the topics because you need them for the final.
Don't wait until the last minute to do homework because there is a lot.  You really need to pay attention and concentrate on this class to pass the course.
Show up to class, pay attention, and do as m any practice problems as you can.  They are a good study tool!
Take this course seriously.  If you don't have enough time to read and study every day, you will not do good.
DO NOT SLACK OFF.  If you need help, a tutor is WELL WORTH your time.  Get all the extra credit you can.
Go to Chemistry Club!  It's fun and you get extra credit.  Also make sure you study a week before a test.
Be sure to really learn the things you are told to memorize because you will use them through the whole course.  Also, do the homework and extra credit sheets - the practice makes the tests a lot easier.
Study really hard and do extra credit because it really helps.
Have the determination to succeed even though some may find CHE 111 to be difficult.  Also, work closely with the professor for help when the need arises.


Fall 2008
Attend each class.  Do each homework.  Solve all problems from Q&A and end of chapter.  Get help as soon as you need it.
Make sure to make time to finish homework and lab.  Try to take good notes.   Miss as little class as possible.
Use the chat rooms because they are very helpful.  Extra credit should be done if you are falling behind.  Keep up with the reading and Q&A sheets because when it comes time for the HW sheets, it will be easy.
Be organized and practice a lot.
Make sure you know what you are doing and why before doing the homework.  If you don't know then there are plenty of resources you can use to help.
This class contains a lot of information.  Future CHE 111 students should always have good notes in class because they really do help with the homework and exams.  The chats are also very helpful and I also advise not to wait until the last day to do the homework worksheets.
Read the material in the textbook before it is covered in class, then again after the class.  Participate in study groups.  Do all of the homework assignments and available extra credit.
Review notes.  Do practice problems.  Q&A sheets.
Make sure you can do time management.
This course requires a lot of time and effort outside of class.  Do all of the practice sheets and some of the chapter questions.  The more practice the more you absorb.  This is not an easy effortless class.
Do tons of practice problems.
Do the extra credit.  Do a couple problems each night.  It is a great supplement to the homework, gives you practice on problems that might be on the test, and the extra points can really add up.  Don't procrastinate.  If you don't understand something, get help as soon as possible.  the information builds on itself, so if you don't understand something it'll affect how you understand something in the future.
Come to class, to pay attention, and ask questions.  Also, it is extremely important to do the homework.  I think that if the homework wasn't collected, I would not do it and most likely would have dropped the class from the result of not knowing how to do any of the problems.  The homework is very helpful on understanding what was covered in class and helps to prepare for the tests.  Take time to study for the weekly quizzes.  They are a great way to boost your grade.  The extra credit sheets are helpful too.  If you can, turn them in for credit, but at least look at them and try a few problems for practice when studying for a test.
Don't put off the work and do lots of practice problems.
(1) Do your homework completely.  (2) Take any extra credit opportunities you get.  (3) At the first sign that you're doing poorly, GET HELP IMMEDIATELY (SI, teachers, tutors, friends, parents).
Make sure you give yourself enough time to study.  Try to find someone in class you can talk to and don't be afraid to ask questions.
Be sure you need a lab science before you take it.  Be sure you have time to do it.  If you are getting help and still don't understand and it is taking time away from other classes, do not be ashamed to withdraw.
Spend more time on it than you think they need to at the beginning.  As the semester progresses it becomes harder and harder to find extra time to work on it.


Spring 2008
Take time to read the book, the lecture is great but let it reinforce what you had already read.
Come to class, ask questions, spend a lot of time outside of class working on chemistry, and don't slack off at the end of the semester!
Take the course seriously and actually study.
Study and memorize conversions.
Believe the instructor when they tell you this is a hard class.  Always keep up with homework, lab reports, and do as much extra credit as possible.
Don't procrastinate.  Chemistry problems are very time consuming, especially if the material is new and has to be learned.
Attend class!  Do lots of problems from the book.
Do many, many practice problems, it really helps.
First, make sure they have extra time after classroom time, from 12 to 14 hours a week available just to concentrate in this subject.  Second, attend every class, even if the professor does not take attendance.  Classroom lectures are essential together with practice problems and reading to understand the material.  As soon as they do not understand something ask right away.  Attend tutoring center.  The professors here are great, very helpful and easy to understand.  This class can become very difficult if it is left behind, very hard to catch up.  If students are interested in learning very interesting things related to chemistry, this is a perfect course.  Together with lab everything falls into place.
Study, study, study!  Please take it seriously when they say you need a minimal amount of time to study (12 hours) weekly because that's only to carry a low B average.  Mrs. Tracey was very helpful and provides more than ample opportunities for extra help, ie, extra credit dittos, recommended practice problems at the top of each homework, and online questions and answers.
Study, practice problems, and then study some more.  This class it not to be taken lightly.  You must devote a lot of time for studying.  If you do the homework and extra credit problems, along with some studying you will be able to achieve a good grade in this class.
Make sure you miss a little class as possible.
They should spend more time doing homework.
I recommend using the textbook.  The textbook can really help with people that don't pick everything up in class.  Every day in class I keep my book out and what the instructor is going over in class I follow and take notes with the textbook.
I suggest that you read the chapter twice so you know why/how certain things are solved how they are.

Fall 2007
This class will demand (much like a small child) that you give it attention. If you TAKE GOOD NOTES, do MANY practice problems, get help if needed IMMEDIATELY, and devote an appropriate amount of time and space (limit other classes to take with it) you will find that the amount of knowledge you gain will grow and develop very quickly into something you can appreciate on a day to day basis. really take the fact that this is not an easy class, and that is requires a lot of time to prepare for seriously!
Study hard and relax on tests.  If you can not figure out a problem, wait a hair and go back to it. And just keep up the good work.
I always try to take good notes in class. Your notes will be a huge help when you are trying to do homework or studying. I also go to Dr. Tracey's website and get all the extra problem sheets (with answers) and I make sure that I know how to solve every simple exercise in there. This really helps you a lot with the exam!
Study, study, study! If at all possible, try not to work. If you must work, do minimal hours. Repetition with study and extra credit problems is the key. Homework assignments can be challenging so don't wait to the last minute. The website is fantastic, you must use it!!
Purchase the required text but ALSO purchase, borrow or steal another textbook! Many of the explanations and examples in the required text were not sufficient for practice. Check Dr. Tracey's website regularly. If you have the opportunity, join a dedicated study group. Attend the SI meetings. Practice! Practice!! Practice!!! DO NOT be afraid to ask for help!
Dedicate LOTS of time to study. The study time alone is a part-time job.
Plan on having a whole day each week devoted to chemistry, as a minimum.
Do all the extra credit sheets before each exam - practice makes perfect. Attend class - the book isn't great and Dr. Tracey has a great easy way of explaining. Utilize the website - it has a lot of great user friendly info.
Hmmm...I'm not doing so well, not sure if I'd be good for advice.  But I think if I would have practiced the main topics a little more I would have been a lot better off.  I spent a good amount of time on homework and did well with those and quizzes but I obviously should have spent more time studying for the tests.  Working with chemistry 2 days a week isn't enough. Try and break it into smaller chunks and more often, that way it stays more fresh. Prepare your index cards for tests at the beginning of the semester and immediately following each test. Memorize the basics early in the semester, really get them down because they will help you through the whole semester.
Attend every class. Do all assignments. Go above and beyond - do extra problems (back of the book) and read the chapters (there is plenty of time between tests). Cancel your cable tv or satellite tv.
Manage your time wisely. Don't wait to the week of the test to study, but study as you go.
Do practice problems. Avoid missing even one class. Do problems contained in Q&A sheets. Memorize ions and review frequently. Consider putting ions on 3x5 cards and reviewing those cards daily for weeks. Seek help early if something is not clear. Obtain extra credit as often as possible.

Spring 2003
My one piece of advice is:  study, study, study.  The class may seem easy, but it's really not.
Do all the homework and if you don't understand get someone to go over it with you because it helps for tests.
The advice I would give for future students is to basically give it your best.  Attend ALL classes, take good notes, ask questions, do tons of example problems, and do not forget to open the book and just read.
I would tell future students to not take your warning lightly on the amount of time needed for this class.  You really do need to spend a lot of time preparing for this class.
I would tell them however much time they allot for homework, double it.  And don't wait until the day before it is due.  Although you told us, I would tell them again, be sure to not miss any labs.  Playing catch-up in the lab work sucks.
Make sure you do all the reading.  It's a big help if you have some kind of idea about the lecture before the lecture.
Start your homework early so you're not doing it through the night.
Make sure you study!  Mostly in class because she teaches the material so much easier than learning it from the book.
On piece of advice I would give to future students is to learn your anions and cations early!
The piece of advice that I could give to future students at this class is:  Do lots of practice problems.  Read each chapter before the class.  Keep up with the work.  Don't miss the class unless it's an emergency
I would tell future students that, in order to receive a good grade in this class, they should try not to miss any classes, take good notes, do all homework, set aside plenty of time to study, and read the chapters thoroughly.
I have never done so much homework for one course.  If you take it you need to be fully devoted into earning a good grade.
One thing I would tell future students is to do the homework, practice the problems, and study for tests.
I would tell other students to come to every class.  Do all of your homework...they make the tests so much easier.  Keep up because everything builds, if you are told to memorize it...then do it!
Advice I would give to a future student is to simply take the course seriously.  The material itself isn't especially difficult and the teacher presents it all very clearly.  the only thing the student needs to do is keep on top of the material which doesn't necessarily mean 10 hours of studying a week, just as much as is needed to get the concepts.  And read the text.

Fall 2001
Take what your instructor says about spending 12 hours outside the classroom very seriously!
Study hard.
Don't take a full course load.
Do all the extra credit.  Go to SI from the get-go.  Use all of the resources available to you for outside help.
Don't get behind. Turn in and do good on ALL homework and writing assignments.  Do extra credit early in semester.
Do the homework and extra credit and work with another student(s).   Working with someone else helped me the most.
Do not get behind and get help as soon as you don't understand something.
Be ready to spend a lot of time on this class.
Spend extra time to study at home - at least 15 hours per week.
DO the homework, problems in the text, Q&A sheets.  Do as many exercises as possible.
Do lots of homework/practice.
Take this class and this class only!
Be sure to understand everything.  If any doubts, get help right away, especially after a test.
Attend lecture all the time.  Try not to miss class.  Do all the homework handouts.
Do the homework.
Do all your work and study.  Chemistry will take up most of your time compared to other classes.
Really work hard.
First, accept that this material must be digested.  You can master it, but it may take a lot of work on your part.  You may not understand it the first time, but if you work a lot of problems, you can and will comprehend it.
If you aren't a science major and make the mistake of taking this class, don't take more than two other classes at the same time.  If you are, then do the homework, read the book, ask questions and you should be all right.
Pay attention and do more than just the given assignments.
Don't miss any classes.
Do the practice problems as much as possible.
Don't take this class and BIO 101 at the same time.
Don't miss any classes.  Study or review notes most every day.  Do homework, extra credit and problems in book.  Also, attend chat sessions.  Use book for clarifying info - I didn't read cover to cover.
Start your homework the day you get it.  Don't put it off til the last minute!
Attending lecture is the most helpful.  I did not miss any classes during the semester, I would recommend this to everybody.  The teacher's explanation is always better than reading the book.

Spring 2001
Do lots of practice problems and read the chapter briefly before class.
Keep up with the work.
Don't give up when the material seems too hard. Keep with it.
Do every assignment as soon as you get it, it's easy to get behind.
As long as you are willing to look at chemistry as a challenge and you're willing, and able to devote at least 3 hours per day on average you can and will do well.
Be prepared to spend the time studying, if you do, you can be successful.
Take the time for this class to study and understand the material.
Do your homework.
Take notes in class that are clear and precise, and attend every class, and take advantage of all the extra help offered to you.
To make sure you study and if you don't understand something, go get help.
Don't miss class - a lot of information is covered in each class and you could easily fall behind if you skip.
Clear out all plans for everything - you must study 99.9% of the day with 0.1% for sleep. Not really but you must study to do well in the class.
Study.
Not only do all of the homework but start it well in advance of the day it's due.
Do all the homework because it will help you keep up with the class and review for tests, and take plenty of notes.
Study, study, study and don't take any more than one other class.
Be prepared for a lot of hard work, even if you're good in science, this is not an easy class.
Use your time wisely, there is a lot of work that needs to be done to successfully complete this class, and you have to be prepared to give up an hour of 90210 to do your homework.
Do your homework and writing assignments, also, attend class regularly.
Do the work!! The only way to understand some of this stuff is to practice it.
Study and do the problems at the end of each chapter to help cement the procedures.
You need a lot of study time - try to schedule this class on a semester with, say, only 8 or 9 other credit hours.
Read the book and do the homework.
Work hard, and make sure to read the textbook. Going to SI helps a lot too.
Do the work.
You will only fail if you refuse to get up and try again.

last updated 15 January 2017


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