How to Solve Chemistry Problems easily

Solve problems in whatever way is easiest for you. There are usually
several ways to solve any problem in chemistry and arrive at the correct answer. For example, when converting units some students prefer to use a dimensional analysis whereas others prefer to set up a proportion.

Do what is easiest for you. Remember that the test is all multiple choice. That means that no one is going to be checking your work and judging you by which solution method you chose. So solve the problem any way you like.

Build good problem-solving skills

1. When you ?rst read a question, make a list of the given values and variables and the units for the variables.
2. Ask yourself, “What do I have and what do I need to get?” The link between what you have and what you need to get is either an equation that you should be familiar with or certain speci?c steps to follow to solve particular types of problems.
3. Solve the problem and see if the answer makes sense. For example, if you know that one variable should be much larger than another, make sure your answer re?ects that relationship.

Make sure you know what the question is asking