Question

How can I interpret a Sawhorse projection?

Answer 1

By reference to a molecular model.

Explanation:

It is always difficult to represent a 3-dimensional structure on a 2-dimensional page. Such representations are complicated by the frequent occurrence of chirality in organic structures. I urge you to get a set a molecular models (or even make a set with cut straws and blobs of plasticene or putty). In a Newmann projection you are looking down the "shaft" of a `C-C` bond, whereas the sawhorse representation gives a better idea of connectivity. A molecular model will help you immensely in the interpretation of such representations.

A set of molecular models will always be permitted in any examination. Note also that you should not be embarrassed by the use of such models. If you look on the desk of a professor of organic chemistry, you are very likely to see a good set of models, with which the prof will frequently fiddle.