A Mind for Numbers Flashcards
These two methods of thinking are essential in learning math and science
Focused and Diffuse
What is the Einstellung effect?
Getting stuck on solving a problem or understanding a concept due to a flawed approach
How can you overcome procrastination?
Use the Pomodoro method. Remove all distractions. Focus on a task for 25 minutes. Don’t worry about completing the task, just work on it until the timer goes off. Reward yourself after.
Getting frustrated when learning a topic may indicate what?
That it’s time to switch to diffuse thinking mode
What learning method helps move items from your working memory to your long-term memory?
Spaced repetition
How soon should you review new material after learning it?
Within one day.
What is a chunk?
Bits of information tied together through meaning.
1st Step to forming a chunk
Focus on the information without distractions
2nd step to chunking
Let focused and diffuse thinking modes work together to understand the basic idea
3rd step to chunking
Gain context to understand when this chunk is used
What are vital parts of the chunking process?
Practice
Repetition
Having a big picture of the idea
What is more effective for forming a chunk, recalling material or rereading material?
Recalling material is more effective
What are some things that can give you an illusion of confidence?
Rereading material
Highlighting text
Looking at solutions to problems without trying to solve them
What are a couple things you can do if you have trouble grasping an idea?
Do something physically active
Learn about who invented or first used the idea
What is most effective at enhancing deep learning and forming chunks?
The retrieval/recall process
Interleaving
Practice doing a mixture of different kinds of problems requiring different strategies
The dread of doing a task takes up more time and energy than _________
doing the task itself
What are the four parts that make up a habit?
Cue
Routine
Reward
Belief
What can you do instead of avoiding an uncomfortable task?
Focus on process, not product
What does it mean to focus on process?
Focus on the flow of time and the habits and actions associated with it. For example, focus on setting a timer for 25 minutes and working on the task during the timespan.
How can you change a habit?
Respond differently to a cue, or avoid the cue altogether. Reward and belief make the change long lasting.
What are the 7 steps to building a powerful chunk?
- Work a problem on paper
- Do another repetition, focusing on the key process
- Take a break
- Work the problem right before sleep
- Do another repetition when you wake up
- Add a new problem and repeat steps 1-5
- Mentally review key problem steps while doing something active
