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Learning to Learn
Combine diffused and focused learning
Leveraging diffused and focused learning is key to truly understanding something. You learn chunks through the focused model, and you develop the broader conceptual map using the diffuse way of thinking.
First, learn the basic outline or core structure, then fill in the details. For instance, when reading a book, look at the table of contents (core structure) and scan through the material. Next, use focused reading to fill in the details.
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11
Key Ideas
Just start, break the initial barrier
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Practice chunking
A memory chunk is a solid connection in your mind that relates various bits and pieces of information.
Focus on the concept you want to form a chunk of. Write down the basic ideas of what the concept is all about. Build up from these fundamentals to finally create a chunk.
Learn, Practice, Recall — Repeat
While reviewing material, recall it instead of just reading it passively. Try and recall in a different setting than where you studied it.
10
Key Ideas
“Focused” and “Diffused” Modes
When learning, there are times in which you are focused and times in which you allow your mind to wander. Both modes are valuable to allow your brain to learn something.
Take regular break...
Chunking
The goal is to learn each concept in a way that they each become like a well-known puzzle piece.
In order to master a concept, you not only need to know it but also to know how it fits into the bigger picture.
Beware of Illusions of Competence
Instead of highlighting or underlining, rather take brief notes that summarize keys concepts.
3
Key Ideas
Learning is necessary for our success and personal growth
But we can’t maximize the time we spend learning because our feelings about what we ‘should’ be doing get in the way.
When our brains equate learning and work
If we are learning for work, then in our brains learning equals work. So we think we have to do it during the day, at our workplace.
We think that walking is not learning. It’s ‘taking a break’. We instinctively believe that reading is learning. Having discussions about what you’ve read, however, is often not considered work, again it’s ‘taking a break’.
The focused and diffuse thinking modes
When mastering a subject, our brain has two general modes of thinking: focused and diffuse, both important in the learning process.
The focused mode is what we traditionally associate with learning. But we need time to process what we pick up, to get this new information integrated into our existing knowledge. We need time to make new connections. This is where the diffuse mode comes in.