6 learning tips in under 60 seconds @marvinliyanage

Key Concepts:

• Struggle-based learning
• Making connections (concept mapping)
• Active recall/self-testing
• Identifying and addressing knowledge gaps (blind spots)
• Spaced repetition
• Learning from experts

Learning Tips in Under 60 Seconds

This video outlines six effective learning tips designed to enhance comprehension and retention.

1. Embrace Struggle

The first tip emphasizes the value of "struggle" in the learning process. The presenter suggests actively engaging with practice tests, drawing, or dancing before feeling fully prepared. The rationale is that these initial, often incorrect, attempts signal to the brain the importance of the information, prompting it to pay closer attention. This aligns with the concept of desirable difficulties, where effortful retrieval leads to stronger learning.

2. Make Connections

The second tip focuses on creating connections between new information and existing knowledge. A recommended method is concept mapping, where a central "big idea" is established, and new information is organized as sub-points or related concepts under this main idea. This visual and organizational approach helps to build a structured understanding rather than isolated facts.

3. Take Breaks to Test Yourself

The third tip advocates for active recall and self-testing during learning breaks. Instead of passive methods like rereading or highlighting, learners are encouraged to actively stop and apply the material they have just encountered. This process of retrieving information from memory strengthens its consolidation.

4. Find Your Blind Spots

The fourth tip involves identifying and addressing knowledge gaps. This is achieved by creating two lists: one detailing what the learner knows and another detailing what they don't know. Subsequent learning efforts should then be directed towards filling these identified "blind spots."

5. Space Out Your Learning

The fifth tip highlights the importance of spaced repetition. By revisiting information over increasing intervals, learners signal to their brain that the information is relevant and important, thus improving long-term retention. This counters the tendency for information to be forgotten quickly if not reinforced.

6. Learn from Experts

The final tip suggests leveraging the knowledge of experts to accelerate learning. The presenter posits that learning from individuals highly proficient in a desired skill or subject can significantly reduce the time and effort required.

Real-World Application/Example:

The video mentions a specific way to learn from experts: becoming a Big Think member. This membership offers access to over 100 classes taught by renowned figures such as Adam Grant and Yuval Noah Harari, providing a direct avenue to learn from established authorities in their respective fields.

Synthesis/Conclusion:

The video presents a concise yet comprehensive set of actionable learning strategies. The core message is that effective learning involves active engagement, strategic organization of information, self-assessment, targeted practice, spaced reinforcement, and the judicious utilization of expert knowledge. By implementing these six tips, individuals can significantly improve their learning efficiency and the depth of their understanding.