We analyzed how resource activation and application to constructing RCDs varied depending on the reaction context. For the stepwise Markovnikov addition reactions, students activated resources related to the formation of the carbocation, the rate-determining 555 step, and the stepwise nature of the reaction. Fewer resources were activated focusing on the structures and differences in stabilities of the major and minor products. The opposite was observed with the concerted elimination reactions in which resources focusing on the structure of the product stability were activated to a greater extent than resources focusing on transition state energies. The strategies observed stem from the strategies used 560 successfully in lectures. On exams, the major products can be successfully predicted by considering the most substituted carbocation for Markovnikov additions or the impact on alkene substitution as the bulkiness of the base increases in an E2 elimination.