Chapter 3 - Learning is Creating Flashcards
Should you use the focused or diffuse mode to grapple with a new concept in Maths or Science?
You should use the focused mode. Learning a new concept in Maths or Science often begins with some focused mode thinking as you grapple with a new concept. But you should be prepared to switch to diffuse mode to allow your mind to make connections around the subject you’ve just learned about.
What should you do after your focused learning?
You should do something completely different to allow the diffuse mode to take over. Note that this should not be something else that requires focus such as watching movies or looking at your phone!
When you get frustrated by something, should you double down and push through or do something else for a bit?
You should step away from what you are doing and allow the diffuse mode to take over. Often, it’s while your brain is in this mode that the answer will come to you, or it will come to you when you pick up the problem again.
Should you study for long periods infrequently, or in short, regular intervals
When it comes to studying, short and regular beats infrequent, long and intense every time. Regular, spaced study allows solid neural pathways to be laid down, like a wall that is solidly built as opposed to a mess of bricks and mortar that will easily crumble under stress.
What’s the best way to ensure that you can work in short, focused intervals without distraction or procrastination?
The Pomodoro technique is one of the best methods to ensure that you work in short, focused, fruitful intervals without interruption.
You set a timer for 25 minutes, with a ten minute break in between as a reward.
Name the two areas of memory and use metaphor to describe each.
Working memory - Like a juggler holding balls in the air. Studies show that the maximum number of balls tends to be four.
Long term memory - Like a store house of memory that ideas and concepts can be retrieved from. It can hold much more information, but this information needs to be pulled out and turned around from time to time to keep it accessible.
What is the best method to move items from working memory to long term memory.
Spaced repetition. Flash cards like the one that you are reading right now are an excellent method to learn repeatedly at spaced intervals.
Is sleep important to the learning process and why?
It’s super important to the learning process.
It helps you make the neural connections necessary for normal thinking processes.
Strengthen and reinforce the crucial parts of what you are learning and prune away what is not important.
Figure out tough problems and find meaning in what you are learning.
What are some good things to do when stepping away from a problem to engage the diffuse mode?
Going for a run
Surfing
Taking a walk
Washing some dishes
Meditating
Napping
What are some bad things to do when taking a break?
Checking your phone
Watching a movie
Playing video games
Talk to friends
Surf the web
