Expediting Knowledge Absorption Without Extended Study Sessions

In a quest for more effective learning, one individual embarked on a journey to revolutionise their study habits. This transformation saw the replacement of low-value activities with high-value ones, such as active recall and spaced repetition, in their study time.

The cornerstone of this new approach is brain optimization. Prioritizing sleep, hydration, and nutrient-rich meals forms a crucial part of this strategy. But what exactly are active recall and spaced repetition? Active recall involves testing oneself frequently by writing down everything one remembers without looking. Spaced repetition, on the other hand, involves spreading reviews over several days or weeks.

To facilitate these techniques, the author employs the use of an app like Anki or a paper-based system for spaced repetition. The author's study structure keeps the brain engaged and reduces mental fatigue, ensuring that learning is not only effective but also enjoyable.

For many years, the author equated learning more with studying more. However, they realised that the problem was not how much they studied, but how they studied. This realisation led to a shift in perspective, and the author began to experiment with various learning methods backed by cognitive science.

One such method is multimodal engagement, which involves interacting with the material in more than one way, such as reading, listening, explaining, and applying it in practice. Each mode of multimodal engagement creates different neural connections, making recall more reliable.

The learning process has four key parts: active recall, spaced repetition, multimodal engagement, and brain optimization. The author suggests swapping passive review for active recall in at least half of study time. They also encourage using multiple forms of engagement (reading, speaking, listening, and doing) in learning.

In an hour of study time, the author spends 20 minutes reading or watching instructional material, 20 minutes practicing active recall and self-testing, 10 minutes reviewing older material via spaced repetition, and 10 minutes applying the concept or explaining it aloud. The author recommends scheduling spaced repetition sessions for older material to ensure continued retention of information.

This method has proven to be highly effective. The author used this approach to prepare for a complex work certification exam in half the total hours originally budgeted. The author also found success in learning conversational Spanish, remembering vocabulary more easily than in past attempts.

The method for more efficient learning known as "Getting Things Done" (GTD) was developed and described by the author David Allen. This case study serves as a testament to the power of adapting one's study habits and incorporating scientifically-backed techniques for improved learning outcomes.