Chapter 7: chunking versus choking

Question 1

What are the steps to build a powerful chunk?

Answer 1

1. Work a key worked out problem all the way through on paper.
2. Do another repetition of the problem, paying attention to the key processes.
3. Take a break. You can study other aspects of the subject if you need to, but then go do something different. You need to give your diffuse mode time to internalize the problem.
4. Sleep. Before you go to sleep, work the problem again. If you get stuck, listen to the problem. Let your subconscious tell you what to do next.
5. Do another repetition. As soon as you can the next day, work the problem again. Keep your focus on the parts of the problem that are the most difficult for you. An alternative or supplement at this point is to see whether you can do a similar problem with ease.
6. Add a new problem. Pick another key problem and begin working on it in the same way that you did the first problem.
7. Do “active” repetitions. Mentally review key problem steps in your mind while doing something active, such as walking to the library or exercising. You can also use spare minutes to review as you are waiting for a bus, sitting in the passenger seat of a car, or twiddling your thumbs until a professor arrives in the classroom. This type of active rehearsal helps strengthen your ability to recall key ideas when you are solving homework problems or taking a test.

Question 2

What is knowledge collapse?

Answer 2

This type of “knowledge collapse” seems to occur when your mind is restructuring its understanding—building a more solid foundation.

You’ll find that when you emerge from these periods of temporary frustration, your knowledge base will take a surprising step forward.

Question 3

How should you organize your materials?

Answer 3

In preparation for a test, have your problems and solutions neatly organized so you can go over them quickly.

Question 4

What is the use of testing?

Answer 4

Testing in itself is a powerful learning experience. It changes and adds to what you know, also making dramatic improvements in your ability to retain the material.

Question 5

What is choking and how can we overcome it?

Answer 5

Choking—panicking to the point where you freeze—can happen when your working memory is filled to capacity, yet you still don’t have enough room for the additional critical pieces you need to solve a problem.

one of the most important reasons to have well-chunked solution methods readily in mind is to prevent choking.