Learn Like a Pro: Science-Based Tools to Become Better at Anything

When you try to retrieve something from memory, you get feedback that tells you what you know well (the stuff you’re easily able to retrieve) and what you need to spend more time on learning (what you cannot retrieve).

To develop a profound understanding of what you’re learning, it’s important to actively connect what you’re learning to other material you’re learning or already know. Your neural sets of links should be connected to as many other sets of links as possible, to form a web of learning.

When your study involves intense memorization, as with vocabulary or anatomy terms, it can be helpful to study in a quiet environment. But when your studies involve more conceptually difficult material—for example, trends in history, bridge construction, or grasping a difficult analytical concept—it can be better to study in an environment that occ

To think of a metaphor, simply ask yourself, “What does this remind me of or resemble?”

interleaving—that approach where you alternate different types of problems—for example, alternating module 3 problems with module 7 problems.

Find ways to overcome challenges without having to rely on self-discipline. – Remove temptations, distractions, and obstacles from your surroundings and make it as easy as possible to make the right decisions. – Change existing habits that may be harming your ability to study by finding the habit cue and changing your response to it. Plan your goal

Find value in your studies. Work to experience feelings of mastery. Set goals. Work with others. Value—Find What’s in It for You We are motivated to spend time on activities that we enjoy or benefit from. If you’re learning Spanish but don’t enjoy it, don’t find it useful, and don’t care about a grade, you’ll find it difficult to motivate yourself

Because the drones can fly over the maze, they can easily make connections between parts of the brain that may not normally be connected. You use the diffuse mode whenever you’re learning something new and difficult. The diffuse mode allows you to create the beginnings of a new neural pathway of ability and understanding.

Watching a movie, going for a walk, and having a meal can all become more fulfilling if we share it with someone we like. That’s because people have a built-in need to be socially connected and to secure the love and respect of others.7 And face it—studying is more enjoyable if you have someone to study together with. If some of your friends are se

Taking occasional peeks at a distraction is one thing, but to avoid being frequently drawn completely off-task, you want to find a place to study where distractions are eliminated or minimized. Learning specialists recommend avoiding study in rooms where your friends or colleagues socialize—for example, a college dorm room or student or employee ca