I've just started reading A Mind for Numbers by Barbara Oakley, Ph.D., based on a thread by @BrianFOConnor about books we should be reading now.

This is a quick outline of the main ideas in the first chapter.

1/ Our brain uses focused and diffuse modes to solve problems.

• The focused mode, as you might imagine, is good for concentrating on a subject or task for a limited period of time.

• The diffuse mode allows us to step back, and take a less-focused look at the big picture.

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2/ When initially encountering new concepts and problems, it's not unusual to be stumped.

• This is normal because the brain is using neural pathways it has already created for problem-solving.

• These may not be the best pathways to use for these new concepts and problems.

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3/ In order to best solve problems and understand new concepts, we need to use both modes of thinking.

• Initially focus on the task to get a good idea of the things that you will need to learn or accomplish.

• Then, turn the focus away and allow the brain to create pathways.

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4/ The Einstellung effect refers to getting stuck in solving a problem

as a result of becoming fixated on a flawed approach.

• Switching modes from focused to diffuse helps free you from this effect.

• Our initial ideas about problem-solving can sometimes be incorrect.

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The TL;DR:

• Our brain uses different techniques for problem-solving.

• This can cause our initial means of evaluating to be ineffective.

• The best method is to combine the two different techniques.

• Don't become fixated on the focused mode to solve problems.