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Bassel Malek, MSc P.E.

Ever wonder how your peers are always ahead of the curve? It's simple. They find easy tutorials and extras to help them along their classroom journey. This course has been designed to be just that. Throughout the course, students are introduced to the core concepts they need to master in order to be ahead of the curve. Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I will help you navigate and understand many of the new principles you will learn in your first organic chemistry course.

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What's inside

Learning objective

This course will break down the core concepts of the first half of your organic chemistry journey. students will be able to fully understand their course material, learn easy shortcuts, and be ahead of the curve.

Syllabus

Introduction
Organic molecules can be drawn in many ways. After completion of this section, you will be able to interpret all of the information contained in the most common way molecules are shown.
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Let's test what you learned so far!

Let's put your knowledge to the test!

Let's test what you learned thus far on resonance!

Let's test your skills on the different patterns and significant structures!

Let's put your skills to the test!

Let's cement the above concepts!

Let's test your knowledge!

Let's test your skills!

Let's see how much you know!

Let's put you to the test!

Let's solidify your knowledge!

Let's see how much you learned!

Let's put that knowledge into practice!

Let's review with some practice questions!

Let's get some practice!

Let's cement the final set of reactions!

Try to predict the outcomes!

Let's test your synthesis techniques!

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Breaks down core concepts, offering shortcuts that may help students stay ahead in their organic chemistry coursework
Covers topics such as resonance, molecular geometry, acid-base reactions, and nomenclature, which are foundational for understanding organic chemistry
Includes sections on reaction mechanisms, substitution, elimination, and addition reactions, which are standard topics in organic chemistry curricula
Features practice quizzes after each section, allowing students to test their knowledge and reinforce learning
Devotes a section to synthesis techniques, which are essential for predicting reaction outcomes and designing multi-step syntheses
Requires learners to understand and interpret bond-line drawings, which is a fundamental skill in organic chemistry

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Reviews summary

Helpful organic chemistry sidekick

According to learners, this course serves as an incredibly helpful sidekick to their main organic chemistry studies. Students say it excels at explaining difficult core concepts like resonance, mechanisms, and stereochemistry in a clear and digestible way, often making complex topics click when other resources didn't. While most agree it's not a standalone replacement for a full university course, it's highly valued as a supplementary tool for review and solidifying understanding. It's particularly praised for breaking down foundational principles, helping students navigate the challenging first half of the subject and often giving them a better grasp than their required texts or lectures.
Great for reviewing material.
"Excellent resource for reviewing before exams."
"I used this to brush up on concepts and it was very effective."
"Quickly reviewed chapters I struggled with in my main course."
Covers core concepts thoroughly.
"Provides a strong foundation in the basics of Orgo I."
"Covers all the essential topics for the first semester."
"Helped me get ahead of the curve in understanding fundamental principles."
Ideal as a helper for a main course.
"This is the perfect sidekick to my university organic chemistry course."
"Used this course alongside my lectures and it helped solidify everything."
"Great for reinforcing concepts learned in class."
"Not a standalone course, but an invaluable supplement for review and understanding."
Breaks down complex topics simply.
"The way the instructor explains resonance and mechanisms finally made sense to me."
"He simplifies concepts that my textbook makes overly complicated."
"The explanations are crystal clear, which is exactly what I needed for Orgo I."
"Loved how he broke down stereochemistry – it finally clicked!"
"Really appreciate the clarity on fundamental principles."
Could use more practice problems.
"Wish there were more practice problems provided."
"The explanations are great, but more examples to work through would be helpful."
"Need to find external problems to truly master the concepts covered here."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I with these activities:
Review General Chemistry Concepts
Strengthen your understanding of fundamental chemistry principles, which are essential for grasping organic chemistry concepts like acid-base reactions and molecular structure.
Browse courses on General Chemistry
Show steps
  • Review your general chemistry textbook or notes.
  • Work through practice problems on stoichiometry and bonding.
  • Focus on acid-base chemistry and thermodynamics.
Build a Molecular Model Kit
Enhance your spatial reasoning and understanding of molecular geometry by building models of organic molecules.
Show steps
  • Purchase a molecular model kit or gather materials to build your own.
  • Build models of molecules discussed in the course.
  • Use the models to visualize conformations and stereochemistry.
Read 'Organic Chemistry' by Paula Yurkanis Bruice
Supplement your learning with a widely respected organic chemistry textbook to gain a more in-depth understanding of the subject matter.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters corresponding to the course syllabus.
  • Work through the example problems in the book.
  • Attempt the end-of-chapter problems for practice.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Practice Drawing Resonance Structures
Improve your ability to quickly and accurately draw resonance structures, a crucial skill for understanding reaction mechanisms and stability.
Show steps
  • Find online resources with resonance structure drawing exercises.
  • Draw resonance structures for a variety of molecules.
  • Check your answers against the solutions.
  • Repeat until you can draw them quickly and accurately.
Explore 'Organic Chemistry as a Second Language' by David R. Klein
Gain a different perspective on organic chemistry concepts with a book designed to simplify complex topics and provide extra practice.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters that align with the course material.
  • Work through the examples and practice problems.
  • Use the book to clarify any confusing concepts.
Create Flashcards for Key Reactions
Reinforce your memory of important reactions and reagents by creating flashcards, which can be used for quick review and self-testing.
Show steps
  • Identify the key reactions covered in each section.
  • Create flashcards with the reaction name on one side and the mechanism/reactants/products on the other.
  • Review the flashcards regularly.
Tutor a Classmate
Solidify your understanding of organic chemistry by explaining concepts to a classmate, which forces you to articulate your knowledge and identify any gaps.
Show steps
  • Offer to tutor a classmate who is struggling with the material.
  • Prepare explanations and examples for the topics they find difficult.
  • Answer their questions and provide feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Biochemist
Biochemists study the chemical processes within living organisms. This involves understanding the structure and function of biomolecules, such as proteins, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids, which are all organic compounds. This role often requires a PhD. Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I may help you build a strong foundation in organic chemistry, which is essential for understanding the behavior of biomolecules. The course's sections on molecular structure, isomerism, and reaction mechanisms may be particularly helpful. A biochemist is a vital part of research.
Analytical Chemist
Analytical chemists identify and quantify the chemical components of substances. They use a variety of techniques, including spectroscopy and chromatography, to analyze samples. Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I may help you gain a deeper understanding of the organic molecules you will be analyzing. The course's sections on molecular structure, resonance, and isomerism may be particularly relevant. The analyst may find their job easier as a result of training with this course. An advanced degree is often required for this role.
Pharmacologist
Pharmacologists study the effects of drugs on living organisms. This involves understanding how drugs interact with biological molecules and how they are metabolized. This role often requires a PhD. Because most drugs are organic compounds, a strong background in organic chemistry is essential. Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I may help you understand the chemical structures and properties of drugs, as well as their mechanisms of action. The sections on nomenclature, mechanisms, and synthesis may be particularly valuable. This course may be a great way to break into pharmacology.
Research Assistant
A research assistant supports scientists in conducting experiments, analyzing data, and writing reports. In chemistry, this often involves organic synthesis, reaction analysis, and compound characterization. Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I may help you understand the fundamentals of organic chemistry, including resonance, acid-base reactions, and reaction mechanisms. Understanding these basics may enable you to assist with advanced research projects more effectively. The section on synthesis, including single and multi-step synthesis may be particularly applicable.
Science Teacher
A science teacher specializing in chemistry educates students, often at the high school or early college level. They explain chemical principles, conduct laboratory experiments, and assess student understanding. Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I, with its breakdown of core concepts such as resonance, molecular geometry, and mechanisms, helps build a foundation for teaching these topics clearly and effectively. In this role you may draw on the course's coverage of nomenclature and stereochemistry to explain these concepts to students. The teacher may find the review provided in this course to be beneficial.
Laboratory Technician
A laboratory technician often works in a chemistry lab, assisting with experiments and analyses, so knowledge of organic chemistry is valuable. This role involves setting up equipment, preparing solutions, and meticulously recording data. Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I may help you solidify your foundation in core organic chemistry concepts such as molecular structure, resonance, and acid-base reactions, all essential for accurate experimentation. Understanding the principles covered in the course such as naming compounds and reaction mechanisms may enhance your ability to follow protocols and understand the underlying science. This course may be beneficial for anyone looking to understand their lab work.
Computational Chemist
Computational chemists use computer simulations to study chemical phenomena. This involves using quantum mechanics, molecular dynamics, and other computational methods to model the behavior of molecules. Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I may help you understand the underlying chemical principles behind these simulations. The course material concerning molecular structure, bonding, and reactivity are applicable to this role. This kind of chemist is an important component of research.
Materials Scientist
Materials scientists develop and characterize new materials with specific properties. This can involve working with polymers, composites, and other organic materials. Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I may help you understand the chemical structure and properties of organic materials. This course may cover the topics of molecular structure, bonding, and reactivity, which are all important for materials science. A materials scientist will find this course useful.
Environmental Technician
Environmental technicians monitor environmental conditions, collect samples, and analyze pollutants. Many pollutants are organic compounds, so a background in organic chemistry can be helpful. This role involves fieldwork, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation. Learning about organic molecules from Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I may help you identify and understand the behavior of organic pollutants in the environment. The sections on molecular structure, isomerism, and reactions may be particularly valuable. An environmental technician who understands organic chemistry is a valuable asset.
Patent Agent
Patent agents help inventors protect their intellectual property by preparing and prosecuting patent applications. Those with a background in chemistry often specialize in chemical or pharmaceutical patents. This role requires a strong understanding of both science and law. Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I may help you understand the chemical concepts and terminology used in patent applications related to organic compounds and reactions. The sections on nomenclature, mechanisms, and synthesis may be particularly valuable. For a patent agent, attention to detail is key.
Quality Control Analyst
Quality control analysts ensure that products meet specific standards and regulations. Those working with chemicals or pharmaceuticals may utilize organic chemistry knowledge. This role involves analyzing samples, performing tests, and documenting results. Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I may help you understand the principles behind chemical reactions, molecular structures, and analytical techniques used in quality control. The section on nomenclature may prove particularly helpful for identifying and verifying the components of a compound. A quality control analyst may find this course to be a valuable tool.
Technical Writer
Technical writers create documentation for technical products and processes. Those working for companies in the chemical, pharmaceutical, or biotech fields may need a background in organic chemistry. This role involves researching technical information, writing clear and concise documentation, and working with subject matter experts. Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I may help you become more familiar with organic chemistry concepts, terminology, and reactions. The sections on nomenclature and mechanisms may be particularly valuable for accurately describing chemical compounds and processes. Technical writing can be a rewarding career choice.
Regulatory Affairs Specialist
Regulatory affairs specialists ensure that products comply with relevant regulations. Those working in the chemical, pharmaceutical, or food industries often need a background in organic chemistry. This role involves reviewing scientific data, preparing regulatory submissions, and interacting with regulatory agencies. Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I may help you understand the chemical principles and terminology used in regulatory documents. Concepts such as molecular structure and isomerism covered in this course will be helpful. A regulatory affairs specialist should pursue continuous learning.
Science Journalist
Science journalists communicate scientific information to the public through articles, blog posts, and other media. Those who focus on chemistry or related fields will benefit from a strong understanding of organic chemistry. Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I may help you gain a solid foundation in the core concepts of organic chemistry. Understanding topics such as molecular structure, resonance, and reaction mechanisms may enable you to explain complex scientific ideas in an accessible and engaging way. In particular, a science journalist can use the nomenclature section to clarify chemical compounds.
Medical Scribe
Medical scribes document patient encounters in real-time, assisting physicians and other healthcare providers. While not directly related to chemistry, a medical scribe may benefit from understanding the chemical basis of pharmaceuticals and disease processes. Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I may help you familiarize yourself with the structures and properties of organic molecules that are relevant to medicine. The section on nomenclature may assist in accurately recording medication names and chemical compounds. A medical scribe with a solid scientific background may be more confident in their role.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Course Sidekick: Organic Chemistry I.
Is designed to help students who struggle with organic chemistry. It breaks down complex concepts into simpler terms and provides numerous examples and practice problems. It is particularly helpful for students who need additional support in understanding the fundamental principles. This book is more valuable as additional reading than it is as a current reference.

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