Organic Chemistry Laboratory Techniques

Reviewed by Vanessa Garcia, Lecturer, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley on 12/3/24

Comprehensiveness rating: 5

This textbook provides a great detail of material of the most common organic chemistry laboratory techniques. The use of photographic material to emphasize the topic at hand is used fantastically and can be highly beneficial for both textbook and visual learners.

Content Accuracy rating: 4

To the best of my knowledge, I did not see any errors within the text. My only critique is that some photographic images (from the readers perspective) included individuals/students without proper PPE in a laboratory setting. Aside from that note, this is a great textbook that can be used a reference material.

Relevance/Longevity rating: 5

I can definitely see myself using this textbook as a reference material in my laboratory courses for a long period of time. Nichols presents the material in a way that is simple, timeless, and can be quickly implemented in a laboratory setting.

Clarity rating: 5

It is evident this textbook is consciously written with the notion that any current/future organic chemistry student (and instructors!) can not only understand, but also know the purpose of the everyday techniques seen in a laboratory setting.

Consistency rating: 5

I did really enjoy how each chapter stayed consistent on detailing each technique on its overview, step-by-step procedure, and its uses. From the beginning, this set the tone for the techniques discussed on their clarity and organization.

Modularity rating: 5

Each chapter in the textbook is neatly divided into "quick read" sections in which it gets straight to the point, but also provides additional beneficial information for the reader on its purpose and significance.

Organization/Structure/Flow rating: 5

This textbook is neatly organized into chapters based on the different techniques within a certain topic. Furthermore, within each chapter the sections stay similarly organized and consistent in the material discussed.

Interface rating: 4

I had no trouble navigating throughout the textbook as it has a great table of contents, and links to sections within the text. My only critique is that the use of the brightly colored fonts may not be appealing to those with reading disabilities.

Grammatical Errors rating: 5

To the best of my knowledge, I did not find any grammatical errors within the text.

Cultural Relevance rating: 5

This resource can be applied in any chemistry laboratory setting, to the best of my knowledge does not contain any insensitive material, and individuals from all backgrounds can benefit from the material in this textbook.