Barbara Oakley

Invest time in learning how to learn. Switch between focused and diffuse modes of thinking. Recall and retell instead of review. Separate “process” from “product”, and beat procrastination by just starting doing something small.

• Mode Switching. Toggle between “focused mode” and “diffuse mode” of thinking. After a period of focused attention, relax and take a break (go for a walk or even take a nap) — this allows our unconscious brain to continue working in the background and relate the newly-acquired knowledge to the “bigger picture”.

• Chunks, Mental Scaffolds and Interleaving. Unite bits of information through meaning, and form new easier-to-remember logical “chunks”. Use analogies and imageries to make abstract concepts concrete and relatable to existing knowledge. Interleaving by mixing up problem types and/or across disciplines, which prevents over-learning and allows application/transfer across multiple contexts.

• Recall and Spaced Repetition. To avoid the “illusion of competence”, look away and try to recall the material you’ve learnt. Recall, which takes mental effort, is far more effective than simply reviewing the material. Use “spaced repetition” to move items from working memory to long-term memory. Retell and teach the material to yourself/others in simple language (“explain like I'm five”).

• Beat Procrastination. Start doing something small. Separate “process” from “product”. When writing, for example, let ideas to flow without any friction, before going back to edit and refine. Use the “Pomodoro technique” to focus and work intently in 25-minute blocks, followed by 5-minute breaks.

• Bonus Tip: Pause and spend 30 seconds writing down the “most important points” immediately after every meeting, lecture, reading, or any significant experience.