How to Understand What You're Trying to Learn to Retain More

Studies found that hand written notes are better than typed written notes.

• Handwriting takes more time which leads you to only writing the most important things.
• Cornell Note-taking System: one side is for questions and the other side is for the actual notes (the answer to the question).

Know what works for you. If you think typing is best for you, then learn how to take note effectively using that system.

Understanding where a topic fits in the wider picture.

Ali Abdaal, a doctor and a YouTuber, likes to say, “Don't miss the forest from the trees.”

What this phrase means is that don't get too focused on a certain topic without understanding where it fits in the overall view. See it in the bird's eye view rather than in the worm's eye view to comprehend it better.

Feynman technique: being able to explain something or teach to a friend or to a 5-year-old what you've just learned.

After learning a topic, ask yourself:

• Does this makes sense?
• Could I explain it to a 5-year-old?

Tips:

1. Use simple words in explaining
2. Drill down to the essence or be direct to the point