Learning Techniques

Focused and diffuse thinking

Focused and diffuse mode are two fundamentally different mode of thinking. When we concentrate on something ,we are using the focused mode .It helps us strengthen memories , understand concepts . When we are relaxed ,our brain is in diffused mode . It helps with our creativity . Our brain can’t be in both mode at the same time .

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Pomodoro: tackling procrastination

When we procrastinate , we relate the thing we are going to do with the feeling of pain . But if we actually do the thing , this feeling of pain will disappear . So pomodoro technique is the solution to procrastination .

• 25 minutes
• no interruptions
• focus
• reward

Spaced repetition

• Repeat not a bunch of times in one day but sporadically over several days
• Use flashcards like anki

We have two types of memories :working memory and long term memory . Working memory is like inefficient mental blackboard and long term memory is like ware house . Only by review what we have learned properly and timely can we turn our working memory into long term memory .

The importance of sleep

I used to overlook the importance of sleep . I think it is a waste of time . But now i know that after a good sleep , we can get rid of toxin in our brain and our neural structures can even be strengthened .

Recall

Recall is more efficient than reread . The retrieval process enhances deep learning . I have tried and recall is really helpful .

The illusion of competence

Merely glancing at a solution and thinking you truly know it is one of the most common illusion of competence in learning . You have to solve it on your own if you want to make sure you understand it .

chunk

chunks are compact packages of information that your mind can easily access . In order to form a chunk , you have to

1. Focus your undivided attention on the information you want to chunk .
2. Understand the basic ideas you are trying to chunk .
3. gain context .

Process versus product

In order to get rid of the feeling of pain when you are doing something , you want to focus on process not product . Process is the flow of time and habits and actions associated with the flow of time . Product is outcome . One of the easiest way to focus is to do a promodo .

To-do list

• Make a weekly list of key tasks .
• Daily to-do list ( write it the night before )
• Eat your frog first . Try to work on a most important and most disliked task first .

If your want to learn more about learning . Check on Learning How to Learn .