I stopped taking notes in medical school

Summary

The speaker shares their journey of adapting to college life, transitioning from traditional study methods to a self-directed approach. They emphasize the importance of skipping lectures to study at their own pace with fewer distractions and the ineffectiveness of traditional note-taking. Instead, they advocate for active learning strategies like using flashcards for active recall and spaced repetition. The video outlines a systematic study method, SQ3R, and setting clear goals for effective self-study, ultimately leading to better grades and a happier college experience.

Takeaways

• 🎓 **Adapt to Learning Changes**: Transitioning from high school to college requires adapting to self-directed learning and digital environments.
• 📚 **Self-Directed Study**: The speaker emphasizes the importance of self-directed study over attending lectures for better learning outcomes.
• 🚫 **Avoid Distracting Classrooms**: Large classrooms with distractions can hinder learning, making self-study a more effective alternative.
• 🤔 **Question Traditional Study Methods**: The speaker stopped attending lectures and taking notes, questioning the effectiveness of traditional study methods.
• 📝 **Flashcards Over Notes**: Instead of traditional note-taking, the speaker uses flashcards for more active and effective learning.
• 🔄 **Active Recall**: Flashcards facilitate active recall, which is a more effective learning strategy than passive re-reading.
• 📈 **Use SQ3R Method**: The speaker uses a modified SQ3R method (Skim, Question, Rephrase, Recall, Repetition) for studying.
• 📅 **Set Clear Goals**: Clear daily study goals are crucial for effective self-study and balancing learning and review.
• ⏱️ **Time Management**: Mapping out study sessions with specific time frames for tasks helps in managing study time efficiently.
• 🔄 **Spaced Repetition**: Using spaced repetition software like RemNote helps in reinforcing learning over time.
• 📈 **Continuous Improvement**: The speaker continuously updates flashcards with new information and weak points for better retention.

Q & A

What was the narrator's initial experience with studying in college?

The narrator's initial experience with studying in college was not successful. They continued studying like they did in high school, which did not pay off, and their life was a mess, leading to miserable grades and no enjoyment.

What significant change did the narrator make to improve their study habits?

The narrator decided to rebuild their entire approach to school by wiping their memory card and started to adapt to self-directed learning.

Why did the narrator stop attending lectures?

The narrator stopped attending lectures because they found it difficult to keep up with the pace set by the professor, and they were easily distracted in large classrooms.

What is the main benefit of self-studying according to the narrator?

The main benefit of self-studying, as per the narrator, is the ability to control the learning environment, study at one's own pace, and be free from unnecessary distractions.

Why did the narrator stop taking notes and start using flashcards?

The narrator stopped taking notes and started using flashcards because rereading notes amplified the dunning-kruger effect, leading to a false sense of understanding. Flashcards, on the other hand, force active recall, which is a more effective study strategy.

What is the SQ3R method mentioned by the narrator?

The SQ3R method is a study technique that stands for Skim, Question, Read, Recite, and Review. The narrator modified it to Skim, Question, Rephrase, Recall, and Repetition to employ evidence-based practices.

How does the narrator use the 'rephrase' step in their study process?

The narrator uses the 'rephrase' step by teaching back the main ideas or topics at a fifth-grade level after going through a section. This helps ensure a deep understanding of the material.

What role does spaced repetition play in the narrator's study routine?

Spaced repetition plays a crucial role in the narrator's study routine by spacing out flashcards at strategic intervals, making difficult topics appear more frequently and easier topics less frequently, thus improving retention.

Why is setting clear goals important for the narrator's study system?

Setting clear goals is important for the narrator's study system because it removes stress and anxiety about what to study next, allows for better time management, and helps maintain a balance between learning new information and reviewing old material.

How does the narrator integrate practice problems into their study routine?

The narrator integrates practice problems by doing a set number each day, reviewing weak areas, and updating their flashcards with new information or corrections, which helps reinforce learning and identify areas for improvement.

What was the overall impact of the narrator's study changes on their academic performance and happiness?

The overall impact of the narrator's study changes was positive, leading to better grades and a happier overall state, as they were able to take control of their self-directed learning and set clear boundaries between work and play time.