Dedicated to those shaping our retrosynthesis mindset
Abstract
Retrosynthesis refers to the process of deconstructing a target molecule step by step
until simpler and commercially available synthetic precursors are identified to develop
a valid synthetic pathway. As a powerful problem-solving tool, it has gradually been
expanded to other fields of chemistry. The application of a ‘retrosynthesis mindset’
can be relevant beyond chemistry, such as in education, research management, and science
advice. In this Letter, we discuss the concept of the retrosynthesis mindset and its
implications within and beyond chemistry in the hope of highlighting a broader potential
and encouraging the adoption of such a mindset to enhance problem solving and strategic
planning across disciplines.
1 Introduction
2 Retrosynthesis Education
3 Retrosynthesis Within and Beyond the Lab
4 Conclusion
Key words
retrosynthesis mindset - problem-solving tool - retrosynthesis - education - research
management - science advice