The Acetoacetic Ester Synthesis and the Malonic Ester Synthesis.

The acetoacetic ester synthesis. Target #1 (a ketone):

But ketone alkylations can be problematic and require strong base like LDA.

The solution is the acetoacetic ester synthesis:

The malonic ester synthesis. Target #2 (an ester):

But ketone alkylations can be problematic and require strong base like LDA.

The solution is the malonic ester synthesis:

You should be able to prepare ketones and esters using the acetoacetic ester synthesis and the malonic ester synthesis. Note that for both these reaction it’s possible to alkylate TWICE. For example, prepare the following using the acetoacetic ester synthesis.