A strategy for incorporating crystallography laboratory practice into various experimental chemistry courses for undergraduates is described. The flexible approach that relates key concepts to hands-on activities allows students to draw an immediate connection between crystallography theory and their own lab experiences, leading to a deeper understanding of crystallography content and making their brief laboratory visit a memorable experience.

Despite advances in software development, symmetry-related topics are among the most important yet confusing concepts in crystallography training for chemistry students who routinely use small-molecul...