Dr. Joseph Houck

PSU Penn State University, University Park Fall 2025

As the most experienced Dr. Houck CHEM 110, CHEM 112, CHEM 210 and CHEM 212 tutor in the country, I can tutor you 1-on-1 organic concepts and exam strategies to provide the highest competitive edge for your exam grades. I've got you covered for this class, whether it's DQ's, Exams or NMR Extra Credit. I started tutoring Dr. Houck's Organic Chem 1 since 2013, and I have been tutoring to his exam style ever since.

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Dr. Houck's Exam Style

Dr. Houck's exams are similar difficulty compared to Daily Questions (DQ's) and lecture notes for CHEM 110, CHEM 112, CHEM 210 and CHEM 212. However, not enough exceptions, variations, and PLA's for CHEM 110, CHEM 112, CHEM 210 and CHEM 212. Past exam questions are used in lecture, but not enough variations.
CHEM 110, CHEM 112, CHEM 210 and CHEM 212 feels like the wild, wild west at PSU because different professors format exams differently, and teach more in depth into topics than others. Notable topics include Molecular Orbital Theory, Ring Stability, Synthesis, and E2 reactions on chairs.
CHEM 110, CHEM 112, CHEM 210 and CHEM 212 Exam questions tend to segment into 1/5 ranking, 1/5 short answers, 1/5 mechanism/synthesis, 1/5 conceptual, and 1/5 naming a complicated molecule on every test. Reactions are tested going forwards and backwards, which is difficult to prepare for.
Most exams are designed for students to finish, or answer accurately, but not BOTH at the same time.

CHEM 110, CHEM 112, CHEM 210 and CHEM 212 Points Breakdown

    • Where Do These Stats Come From?

    They come from actual exam & final averages of most recent semester he taught CHEM 110, CHEM 112, CHEM 210 and CHEM 212.

      Drop Rates

    Tutor with me to get this information!

      Exam Averages

    Exam 1: 73.5% / Exam 2, 3 & Final averages to be posted later.

      Exam Points

    Exam 1: 120 Points / Exam 2: 140 Points / Exam 3: 100 Points / Exam 4: 124 Points / Final: 265 Points

      Daily Questions

    39 DQ's x 5 Points Each, 195 Total

      Foundation Quizzes

    55 Points

      Owl Homework

    159 Points

      Mechanisms

    100 Points

      Bonus Points

    5 points


    • Study Tips for CHEM 110, CHEM 112, CHEM 210 and CHEM 212 Exams

    Keep Going

    Re-do a problem 5 times - this helps cement your knowledge, and recall it under high pressure testing environment.

    Get Help Early

    Work with a tutor, find a study group, or talk to your professor if you get stuck.

    Avoid Distractions

    Silence your phone, videos, and tell family to stop bugging you to create a focused environment.

    Why Tutor with Me for Dr. Houck's CHEM 110, CHEM 112, CHEM 210 and CHEM 212?

    • Access To Joy's Extensive Resources - Get access to my entire exam key collection and homework keys for Dr. Houck.

      Exam Tips and Tricks - Get tips and secret resources used by Dr. Houck. Know PSU's peculiarities and learn specific strategies to study for exams.

      Bonus Work - There are numerous bonus point opportunities I can help you to make up your grade, such as DQ’s or extra credit take-home exams.

      Learn to Sound Smart with Your Professor - Students frequently mention that nothing annoys Dr. Houck like "easy" or vague questions to look unprepared in his eyes. Learn how to shine among your peers by visiting office hours often with "smart" questions ready in hand - I'll teach you how and what questions to ask and get the most out of 1-on-1 face time during Dr. Houck's office hours.