How to STUDY so FAST that it feels ILLEGAL

Summary

This video reveals powerful brain hacks to help you study faster, retain more, and still have time for your favorite activities. It introduces techniques like the 20-minute study sprints, the 80/20 rule, and the timer method to increase focus and efficiency. It also emphasizes methods like the Feynman technique and active recall to improve understanding and memory retention. The video stresses the importance of sleep, exercise, and a well-rounded study approach, offering actionable tips for students and professionals to maximize learning potential and achieve better results in less time.

Takeaways

• 😀 Set short study sprints (20-30 minutes) to trick your brain into focusing and avoid procrastination.
• 😀 Use the 80/20 rule: Focus on the 20% of material that will give you 80% of the results.
• 😀 Implement the timer method: Study for 30 minutes, take a 5-minute break, and repeat to stay focused and avoid burnout.
• 😀 Apply the Fineman Technique: Teach a concept as if explaining it to a 5-year-old to solidify your understanding.
• 😀 Use active recall: Test yourself regularly to boost memory retention instead of passively rereading notes.
• 😀 Sleep and exercise are essential for memory retention; aim for 7-8 hours of sleep and take short walks to improve focus.
• 😀 Use the blurting technique: After reading a chapter, write down everything you remember, then check what you missed.
• 😀 Study smarter, not harder, by focusing on high-impact topics and reducing time spent on unnecessary details.
• 😀 The Forest app can help you stay focused by planting a virtual tree that dies if you exit the app.
• 😀 Break down your study material by using past exam papers to identify the most frequently covered topics and prioritize them.

Q & A

What is Parkinson's Law, and how does it affect studying?

Parkinson's Law states that work expands to fill the time allowed for it. In the context of studying, it means if you allocate more time to study, your brain will use all of it, even if the task could be completed in less time. To combat this, you can set short, focused study sprints to trick your brain into staying efficient.

What is the 80/20 rule, and how can it improve studying?

The 80/20 rule, also known as the Pareto Principle, suggests that 20% of your efforts yield 80% of the results. In studying, this means focusing on the most important 20% of topics that are most likely to appear on a test, instead of wasting time on less relevant details.

How can setting a short, 30-minute study sprint improve focus?

A 30-minute study sprint creates urgency, which triggers focus and productivity. By setting a timer, you activate a deadline-like environment where your brain works at peak efficiency. The short duration prevents burnout, and taking short breaks keeps your mind fresh.

What is the purpose of using the Forest app for studying?

The Forest app helps you stay focused by gamifying your study time. You plant a virtual tree, and if you exit the app, your tree dies. This creates a sense of guilt that motivates you to stay focused on studying, thus preventing distractions.

What is the Fineman Technique, and how can it help with learning?

The Fineman Technique involves explaining a concept as simply as possible, as if teaching it to a 5-year-old. This helps you identify gaps in your understanding and ensures you comprehend the material deeply. Simplifying the explanation forces you to truly understand the concept.

Why is active recall a powerful technique for studying?

Active recall involves testing yourself on the material you’re learning instead of passively reviewing notes. This method strengthens memory retention and enhances learning by forcing your brain to retrieve information, making it stick more effectively.

What is the Blurting Technique, and how does it improve memory?

The Blurting Technique involves reading a chapter, then writing down everything you remember without looking at your notes. Afterward, you compare what you missed. This method improves memory by highlighting gaps in knowledge and reinforcing the information you recall.

Why should you avoid cramming and prioritize sleep?

Cramming can negatively affect memory retention because your brain doesn't store information while you’re awake. It consolidates memories during sleep. Getting enough sleep (7 to 8 hours) is essential for proper memory storage and cognitive function.

How does exercise contribute to better studying?

Exercise, even as simple as a 10-minute walk, can boost memory and cognitive function. Physical activity improves blood flow to the brain, which in turn enhances focus and retention of information, making it a helpful tool for students.

What are the six steps to studying smart and fast?

The six steps include: 1) Set short study sprints (20-30 minutes), 2) Use the 80/20 rule to focus on key topics, 3) Use timers to stay focused, 4) Teach the material to someone else using the Fineman Technique, 5) Use active recall to test yourself, and 6) Prioritize sleep and exercise for better brain function.