Learning how to learn” book summary

Modes of learning

1. Diffused mode promotes creativity

2. While focused mode helps solve difficult problems like algebra.

When stuck on a problem shift from focused mode to the diffused mode simply by stopping focusing (going on a walk or sleeping). Take a break to get new perspectives to solve a problem. Never get onto problems without learning the basics. Sometimes you’ve stuck a something because you’re missing basics.

Our memory is just dendritic spines on our neurons in the nervous system that grow better and fast when we sleep(proved by Guang Yang Tenures senior research fellow at Imperial College London). If we don’t recall the topic these spines just disappear so use it or loose it.

The Pomodoro Technique

Set timers for 25minutes and work in this time without all distractions and dont think about finishing work at this time, you might will but dont think about it just focus on the topic. After it take a break and do something fun. Do three or four Pomodoros per day based on your work.

Do active recall of anything you study. It creates and fixes neuron links in the brain so that the topic is not forgotten.

Don’t just jump on conclusions if a method doesn’t work. Give it some time

Further, teaching others a topic will further solidify the concepts in the brain. Don’t be afraid to go back to a beginner’s level if you can’t understand a thing.

Learning makes us smarter and learning how to learn is one of the best things to get the ball rolling

When we learn something new in class dendritic spines are formed but if we don’t revise the topic in a few days these spines are are lost.

Sleep

• Solidifies the walls of learning (said by the US championship winner Nelson)

• Sleep also clears the hippocampus to make room for new learning.

•Cramming your work at the last minute will give you less sleep nights so the dendritic spines would not grow better and you won’t be able to recall things in the exam.

Foods

Onion, dark chocolate, cabbage, nuts have the effect on ability to remember things.

Set a quitting time

Set a quitting time for studying (by Carl Newport, a doctorate from MIT) and think about what you just learn before sleeping. Quit even if the topic isn’t complete and don’t think you’re losing.

Video games

Action video games and video games like Tetris helps you focus and gives the mind flexibility but playing too much games can also be addictive.

In older people playing video games help maintain the focus in daily activities.

Exercise

As we all know exercise is good for overall health but it also has beneficial effects on the brain as it increases the blood supply and helps perform it’s functions better.

Motivation

We can’t start anything without motivation but can’t complete anything without consistency.

But what should we do to motivate ourselves for studying and follow all the above steps?

Take out a pen and paper and write at least at least five reasons why you are studying this topic except to avoid punishment like to get good grades and to get a job and have a better lifestyle. This will help you motivate. All these points should be positive.

The earlier steps are always the hardest.