I promised earlier this year to create comprehensive study guides on the subjects I teach. I’m happy to bring to life the Chemistry Study Guide I’ve been woking on for the past few weeks!
This isn’t just another list of my study tips. I carefully curated and designed this Notion-based Chemistry website to give you one-stop access to building a strong foundation in Chemistry, especially for beginners.
There are a gazillion websites out there and sorting through them to find reliable, helpful information can be overwhelming and time-consuming, especially when you don’t even know where to start. As a STEM teacher, I’ve taken the time to put together a list of 12 sections I believe will be useful to you including the hard stuff and some fun!
Everything is clearly linked and easy to navigate. One of the main reasons I built this site is to create something long-lasting, unlike carousel posts and reels that disappear into the algorithm. I hope you’ll keep it alive by sharing it with someone who might need it too.
Here’s what’s inside:
- The basic study tips
- How to apply theory using my GAESSS method
- Exam strategies that actually work
- A free comprehensive chemistry textbook + what’s in it
- Free and paid resources that I’ve vetted
- Study schedules and planner/note-taking templates
- Helpful apps, tools & YouTube playlists
- Chemistry in movies, shows & fun trivia
- A science news hub to stay updated
01.
Your notes should be organized. Aim to cover each topic and respective subtopics in detail. Use visuals wherever you can!
02.
Here is a format that I created and use with my students to help them answer word problems in chemistry:
Below are sample practice problems taken from my Grade 11 Chemistry class notes for my students using The GAESSS Method:
03.
When it comes to doing well on Chemistry tests, strategy matters just as much as studying. I’ve included some test prep tips that have helped my own students feel more confident and prepared on exam day.
04.
I can’t believe this resource is free. It just goes to show that there are people like Mark Bishop who genuinely put in the time and effort to create helpful resources simply to support others in their learning journey. This textbook comes in text, audio, video, PowerPoint presentations, concept maps and more!
05.
I know learning on your own can be fun but sometimes a structured approach makes all the difference, especially when if you don’t know where to begin. I’ve gathered several reputable platforms that offer clear and engaging lessons. As an educator in Ontario, I also made sure to include resources that align with the Canadian curriculum, such as TVO Learn.
06.
Getting stuck on Chemistry concepts or difficult questions is very common. This is when you look beyond your textbook such as YouTube videos, Reddit threads and online forums. Don’t be shy to post questions on reddit and other forums. You’d be surprised how many people are willing to help!
07.
Through my stationery shop—Project Studiously, I’ve created note-taking and student planner templates in both digital and printable formats that I believe will be genuinely useful for staying organized and managing your studies. I’ve also added other helpful resources I use in my own classrooms, including workbooks, past exam papers, and condensed notes for each grade.
08.
Like I’ve said from the start, Chemistry takes time and consistent effort. To truly do well, you’ll need to set aside time after school and on weekends. I’ve put together a mock study schedule to help you get started—feel free to adjust it to fit your own routine!
09.
In this age of digital learning, no Chemistry study guide feels complete without a few helpful apps and tools. My top picks are Anki, Quizlet and Khan Academy. I’ve made sure to include options that work across iOS, Android and web platforms so they’re accessible to as many people as possible!
10.
What’s studying Chemistry without a little romanticization? And what better way to set the mood than with some amazing background music! I’ve scoured YouTube and gathered some of my favourite playlists. These are the ones I still listen to while getting work done. Enjoy the vibes and happy studying!
11.
I don’t see Chemistry as some boring STEM subject. It’s actually everywhere in our everyday lives. From Breaking Bad to fascinating documentaries, I’ve put together a list of shows, movies and mini videos that make learning Chemistry fun and entertaining.
12.
New compounds, materials and substances are being developed every day thanks to Chemistry. If you’re curious about what some of the brightest minds are exploring and uncovering, I did the digging for you!
