Getting better at laboratory techniques

[CompSciMath]

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So I'm about to start organic lab, and historically I haven't been the best with the practical stuff. I get the concepts read the pre-lab and the instructions but seem to be clumsy etc etc. Is there anyway to remedy this? It's not like a p.set that I can practice. Normally I've always had a lab partner to make sure I don't do anything stupid for my other labs but this time round I'm all alone.

 

[nysw]

Follow the directions religiously. Be careful, don't rush through things. That's why you have a several hour block devoted to it. You shouldn't need a lab partner to make sure you're doing things right, you should just check yourself every step of the way.
As for clumsiness... lol as long as you don't spill your product, it's nbd.
Also, in organic lab, you tend to do the same techniques over and over and over again, so you do get to practice. 🙂

 

[aSagacious]

Just take your time. Unfortunately having your partner be your crutch will probably slow your development with these skills. This semester try to get your hands on everything so you become more comfortable with the techniques. There really is no substitute for hands on learning.

 

[lkthlttr]

Try reading through each step of the protocol thoroughly beforehand so that you know what you need to do in each step before you do it and don't have to learn it in the lab. And not just, pour A into B, but try to connect why you are doing each individual step, eg. "ok now I need to neutralize this acid so it becomes organic soluble and I can extract it into the ether". If you really understand what you're trying to accomplish in the labs, it is so much easier.

Also, make logical use of the clamps, they can really help out with someone who is clumsy.

 

[Etorphine]

be completely sure of everything you're doing before you start.