How to Approach a Synthesis Problem

In the previous two sections, we covered two critical skills (1) functional group transformations and (2) changing the carbon skeleton. In this section, we will explore synthesis problems that require both skills. From this point forward, every synthesis problem should be approached by asking the following two questions  

Is there a change in the carbon skeleton Compare the starting material with the product to determine if the carbon skeleton is gaining or losing carbon atoms. 

Is there a change in the identity or location of the functional group Is one functional group converted into another, and does the position of functionality change  

The following example demonstrates how these two questions should be applied. 

Every synthesis problem should always be analyzed through the lens of the following two questions  

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