I'm 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 second chapter--Learning is Creating.

1/ Use the focused mode first to start handling complex concepts and subjects.

• This technique can be used with any subject or task.

• Don't spend too much time focusing on the task initially.

2/ Switch to diffuse mode.

• Once you've spent 20 - 30 minutes concentrating on a difficult task or subject, let yourself relax and step away.

• Do something that doesn't call for focus: take a walk, shower, sleep.

3/ Especially if you begin to reach a point of frustration, again, step away.

• The brain is not tailored towards incredible focus for a long time.

• It works better (and you learn better) when you shift between focused and diffuse modes.

4/ It's best to work on complex subjects like math and science in short bursts.

• Do a little study every day.

• This gives the focused and diffuse modes the time they need to mesh.

• That's how solid neural structures are built.

5/ If you find yourself procrastinating and not even starting the task, concentrate intently for only a short time.

• Many people use the Pomodoro technique to do this. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pomodoro_Technique

• Set aside this time and don't allow distractions.

6/ The brain has two major memory systems.

• Working memory--it can only keep about four items in there at a time.

• Long-term memory--it can hold large amounts of information but needs to be refreshed occasionally to keep the information in there.

7/ Several rounds of spaced-out repetition helps move things from working memory to long-term memory.

• Repeating the focused and diffuse mode several times on a task helps move it from working memory to long-term memory.

• This is how our brain stores information.

8/ Sleep is a critical part of the learning process.

• Sleep especially makes the neural connections we need to think normally.

• It's not a myth that you should get a good night's sleep before a test.

The TL;DR

• Use focused mode first

• Then allow the diffuse mode to take over

• Switch to diffuse mode when frustrated

• Work focused in small doses

• Set a timer to avoid procrastination

• There are two major memory systems

• Spaced repetition is key

• Sleep is critical

That's a wrap.

Follow me @caseystamper57 for more of these.

Here is a link to the thread with the book recommendations by @BrianFOConnor

https://twitter.com/BrianFOConnor/status/1512852837574844416?s=20&t=lki6H-PL7g4AmX15gCyU9g