Chemists generally don't use the periodic table. Aside from looking up molar weights for stochiometry. Inorg bros probably use it often, maybe physchem bros do. Organic world is much less diverse with carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen making most common structures.
I recommend focusing on structure instead of elements, though I see how inorganic exploration is more fun in the beginning. Subatomic stuff is mostly voodoo bullshit. The view of chemistry as a science instead of a highly technical art is harmful. It's more about how than why.