💭 Learn Better: 3 Neglected Principles
1️⃣ Primacy and Recency Effects:
our brains tend to best remember the initial and final stuff we learn (Primacy and Recency Effects, respectively). Structure learning strategically: introduce vital concepts early for lasting impact, reinforce at the end for cementing importance.
⏰ Session Time Division:
1. Begin with the most crucial info for higher yield (Primacy).
2. Review previously learned topics (mid-session is often less memorable).
3. Recap the most relevant material from the start (Recency).
2️⃣ Interleaving:
Mix up topics for better learning. Instead of blocking topics, embrace variation (not too much). This happens through 2 principles:
1. Contextual interference - topic variation can yield better retention and transfer, though it might initially lead to poorer performance during the task
2. Discriminative contrast - mixed practice builds better connections, allowing knowledge transfer across domains
3️⃣ Categorizing:
Don’t just memorize; build a structure around information. Actively try to connect pieces for better retrieval. Categorizing aids memorization and fosters deeper connections, building knowledge upon existing foundations.
💡 Actionable Strategy:
1. Start strong, end strong: Capitalize on Primacy and Recency.
2. Mix it up: Interleave topics for better understanding
3. Organize systematically: Link & categorize for deeper connections and better retrieval.