<p>I have heard from a lot of ppl that the trick to orgo is to do every single problem and understand the concepts. I have also heard of ppl forming study groups and helping each other out, but is that necessary in orgo. Isn't it betetr to just seek help from TAs and tutoring centers on campus who know more about the subject and who had experience with the professor. </p>
<p>I know that Cornell is a tough school, but overall what is the trick to doing well. I see the benefit in study groups b/c of the large exchaneg of ideas, but isn't it just as effective to see TAs and ask them. Plus it is not like students can predict what profs will test, unless the prof hints ta it or stresses it. He may put minute concepts on it, who knows?</p>
<p>One large problem with the TAs here, and Cornell will be addressing it this fall I believe, is that some TAs (no matter how brilliant) have difficulty communicating in English. This obviously creates problems for some students although I wasn’t one of them. I believe Cornell is somehow going to test the English communication skills of students wishing to be TAs sometime in the future.</p>
<p>I found both methods of studying to be just as effective. If I was studying in a group and we all had difficulty with something, one (or all of us) would go to the TA or prof.</p>
<p>But isn’t it easier to just outline the textbook and study that way for say bio. Then again, I assume questions on exams are more along the lines of “out-side the box” types where profs ask you to use your current knowledge to apply concepts and solve problems. Am I correct? If so, how can one best prepare for these exams and how common is this.</p>
<p>I have also heard the phrase: “study smarter, not harder.” I understand that this means to concentrate on major details, but can’t profs ask you quest about minor details. I mean in how many classes do profs only focus on minor details-- very few I assume.</p>
<p>I don’t think there is a best way to study. Every person learns and studies differently. For me…I do much, much better simply by listening to the lecture and doing practice problems. I only take notes when the prof makes an important point…it worked for me, but it may not work for other students. I have friends who learn best by outlining and reading a lot.</p>
<p>Biochem II was one of those classes where the professor asked you to use your knowledge and apply it to hypothetical experiments. Biochem I was more memorization (or so it felt).</p>
<p>honestly the best thing to do in orgo is stay on top of things, do a little each weekend, and not leave it to the couple of days before the prelim. I know it sounds basic but so many people try to cram and end up with the mean.</p>