ACS Chem Exam: Student Experiences & Reviews

AI Thread Summary
The ACS Chemistry Exam has garnered mixed reviews, with many test-takers reporting experiences that highlight its challenging nature. Participants who have taken the Quantitative, Inorganic, Physical, and Instrumental Analysis exams note that the average raw scores tend to be below 70%, particularly in higher-level courses. The exams are designed to test not only knowledge but also the ability to navigate complex, often misleading questions that require a deeper understanding of chemistry concepts. Many students struggle with these "trick questions," leading to lower scores as they may select answers that seem correct at first glance without fully analyzing the question. Overall, the exam demands a high level of preparation and critical thinking skills.
Weave
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I was just wondering what expierence has anyone had with the ACS Chem Exam, Good? Bad? Why?
 
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Weave said:
I was just wondering what expierence has anyone had with the ACS Chem Exam, Good? Bad? Why?

Not so bad for me, I took the Quant., Inorg., Phy., and Instrumental Analysis ACS nationally standardized tests.

The average raw score on these tests are low, as in below 70%, and the discrepancy increases with higher level chemistry courses.

The tests require savvy, that is, there are probably going to be some question on there that require the taker to have an in depth understanding
and knowledge of the concept. In other words, those that have applied themselves to chemistry for a while are going to see the "trick question", however, most are not even going to see the significant "second step" that's involved. The questions are sometimes misleading, that's why the scores are so low, because students choose the "apparently correct answer" and are not able to assess the question further.
 

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