How to Overcome Being Stuck

Question 1

The brain has two modes for thinking and learning

Answer 1

1. Focused Mode

2. Diffuse Mode

Question 2

Focus Mode

Answer 2

When you’re concentrating hard on something; trying to understand a paragraph, working out a problem, listening carefully

Question 3

Diffuse mode

Answer 3

When you’re not focused on anything in particular; when random thoughts pop up in the shower, riding a bus, taking a walk. When in diffuse mode, the brain can solve problems and connect ideas.

Question 4

Picture the brain as a maze…

Answer 4

Learned concepts are sets of links in different parts of the maze. When in focus mode, you move along these sets of links. Diffuse mode is like a set of tiny drones that can zip quickly over parts of the maze. The drones can make connections to different parts of the brain that normally aren’t connected. These new connections are what you need when you’re struggling to find a solution.

Question 5

Diffuse mode can help you…

Focus mode can help you…

Answer 5

Diffuse mode can help you realize new insight.

Focus mode can help you build and strengthen a new idea

Question 6

Best way to get into diffuse mode

Answer 6

1. Focus on problem until you’re stuck
2. Stop focusing, or maybe switch to another topic

Diffuse mode can work a lot faster if you simply relax, or do something mindless, like brush your teeth, wash dishes, or go on a walk

Question 7

Hard start technique

Answer 7

Takes advantage of diffuse mode when solving difficult problems at home or on tests.

1. Scan over test sheet
2. Mark any that are especially hard
3. Begin working on hardest problem
4. As soon as you get stuck, move to an easier problem
5. After you’ve done 2-3 easier problems, return to the harder problem

While your focused on the easier problems, your drones are working on the harder problems.