[BeepoGirl]

I was given 4 alcohols to synthesise
PhCH(OH)Et, and PhC(OH)Et₂ which I used grignard reagents for, PhCH₂(OH) for which I used 'H-' -LiAlH4 with an ester. But I'm stumped on the last one: PhC(OH)(Me)Et.

I can't use grignard to add an ethyl group and then add a methyl group to an ester because I won't be able to control which groups are added and can't ensure one of each.. Any help?

[Squirmy]

Your PhCH(OH)Et is a secondary alcohol with 3 different substituents. What Grignard/carbonyl compound did you use for that?

[StarvinMarvin]

For the last one: use acetophenone (commercially available) and react it with EtMgBr.