Today, I’m going to be mainly showing some helpful resources to help self-study/assist high schoolers with learning AP Chem or preparing for USNCO. These resources will be presented, in my opinion, from most useful to least useful.
For context, I got a 4 on AP Chem Freshmen year despite even taking outside classes. I also scored 62/70 on last years USNCO (we were given an alternate exam instead of the planned one due to rumors of cheating). Ive been learning chemistry for almost 3 years now
Number 1 is MOST DEFENITELY important
https://www.youtube.com/@TheOrganicChemistryTutor
After watching almost all of his catalog relating to chemistry, I can say that his videos are excellent for preparing with USNCO and even better at AP Chem (in fact some of the stuff he teaches is even too hard for AP Chem).
The Organic Chemistry Tutor provides a very simple, yet powerful explanation for many aspects of chemistry that I strongly suggest anyone interested in chemistry watch. (In fact, he even has more videos that aren’t chem related like math!)
Number 2 is another youtube channel that is also solid and has a playlist dedicated for AP Chem
https://www.youtube.com/@ProfessorDaveExplains/playlists
Though it’s not deep enough for some chemistry concepts in USCNO, this is still a great resource for those who are struggling in understanding how chemistry works. He explains it quite well with his visuals Covers all units of AP Chemistry. In addition, he also has other videos that cover Organic Chemistry, World History, Philosophy etc.
Number 3 is finally a youtube channel you all have heard before. Crash Course
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8dPuuaLjXtPHzzYuWy6fYEaX9mQQ8oGr
It’s more funny to watch than the other two due to Hank Green’s very friendly visuals along with his jokes. With that, the content of this channel is less thorough and deep than the top 2. Still a good start to people who are struggling and need something visually appealing to look at.
Number 4 is a interactive game that helps one memorize chem terms
https://www.sporcle.com/games/subcategory/chemistry
This website has a bunch of chemistry quizzes relating to different topics that is used mainly to improve ones ability to memorize. They have memorizing organic chem functional groups, naming polyatomic ions, and more! (The most useful ones for AP chem and USNCO are at the bottom. Also DO NOT memorize the elements, they give you the periodic table on the AP test and USNCO exams)
That’s all the resources I used that dont cost money! Here are some other resources
Finally, if you feel this isn’t enough, then check out the The Princeton Review Chemistry Premium which does cost money to buy and read though.
Thanks for reading!
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