9 Study Techniques that got me through Cambridge Medical School *science-backed*

Summary

Izzy, a final-year Cambridge medical student, shares nine evidence-based study techniques to enhance learning efficiency. She emphasizes starting with challenging topics, using the Pomodoro technique for focused study sessions, prioritizing understanding before memorization, applying the Feynman technique for clarity, and leveraging active recall and spaced repetition. Izzy also suggests using mnemonics, mind maps, and personal connections to aid memory, creating a study schedule with rest, and regularly reassessing study methods and well-being for optimal learning.

Takeaways

• 📚 Start with the most challenging topics first (Eat the Frog) to focus on difficult tasks and prioritize core subjects effectively.
• 🕒 Use the Pomodoro Technique for intense study sessions followed by breaks to maximize productivity and prevent burnout.
• 🤓 Aim for understanding before memorization to build a solid mental model of the subject matter and fill in gaps with memorization where necessary.
• 👨‍🏫 Apply the Feynman Technique by teaching a topic to someone else to ensure a clear and concise understanding of the material.
• 📝 Focus on practice testing and active recall to stimulate memory formation and attention, enhancing the learning process.
• 📈 Utilize Spaced Repetition to combat the forgetting curve and reinforce long-term memory retention.
• 🧠 Leverage memorization techniques like mnemonics and mind maps to remember complex information and lists.
• 🔗 Create personal connections to words or facts to enhance memory retention, especially useful in language learning.
• 🗓️ Establish a study schedule that includes rest and track your progress to maintain a routine and assess learning effectiveness.
• 💪 Continuously reassess your study techniques and well-being to adapt and improve your study habits and overall health.
• 🌟 Enjoy the journey of learning and not just the destination, and reassess regularly to ensure a balanced approach to studying.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video by Izzy, the final year medical student at Cambridge University?

The main focus of the video is to share science-based study tips that help one study smarter, not harder, and how Izzy applied these techniques to survive Cambridge Medical School.

Why is learning how to learn considered important according to Izzy?

Learning how to learn is important because it acts as a productivity multiplier on all the time spent studying, yet it is rarely taught in schools and is often assumed to be figured out along the way.

What is the 'Eat the Frog' technique and how does it apply to studying?

The 'Eat the Frog' technique suggests focusing on the most challenging tasks or topics first, as inspired by a quote by Mark Twain. It encourages prioritizing difficult subjects over those that are already familiar or comfortable.

How does the Pareto Principle, also known as the 80/20 rule, relate to studying?

The Pareto Principle states that 80% of results come from approximately 20% of the efforts. In studying, this means focusing on the most important and core topics first to maximize efficiency and effectiveness.

What is the Pomodoro Technique and how does it help with studying?

The Pomodoro Technique involves 25 minutes of focused work followed by a 5-minute break, repeated in cycles. It helps to manage study time effectively and maintain high levels of concentration by working in short, intense bursts.

Why is it recommended to aim for understanding first before memorization when studying?

Aiming for understanding first provides a mental model of how things work in the subject being studied, and memorization fills in any gaps where understanding alone is not sufficient, leading to better knowledge retention.

What is the Feynman Technique and how can it be used to enhance learning?

The Feynman Technique involves teaching a topic or concept to someone else in a simple and clear way. This process helps to solidify one's own understanding and identify gaps in knowledge.

How does practice testing, a form of active recall, benefit the learning process?

Practice testing stimulates memory formation and attention by actively trying to recall information. It helps the brain to solidify memories more effectively, regardless of whether the initial recall is correct or not.

What is Spaced Repetition and how does it help to overcome the forgetting curve?

Spaced Repetition is a learning technique that involves reviewing information at increasing intervals over time, which helps to counteract the natural forgetting curve and move information into long-term memory.

What are some memorization techniques mentioned in the video that can help with remembering tricky information?

Some memorization techniques mentioned include mnemonics for remembering lists or sequences, mind maps for visual recall, and creating personal connections to words or facts to enhance memory retention.

Why is creating a study schedule and tracking progress important according to Izzy?

Creating a study schedule helps to establish a routine, ensuring consistent study times and preventing procrastination. Tracking progress provides insights into learning speed and areas that need more focus, adapting the study plan as needed.

What does Izzy suggest for maintaining well-being while studying?

Izzy suggests scheduling in breaks, self-care, and reassessing well-being regularly. She emphasizes that taking care of health and well-being is foundational to effective studying and overall success.

How often should one reassess their studying techniques and well-being according to the video?

Izzy recommends reassessing studying techniques and well-being on a weekly basis, although the interval can be adjusted depending on individual needs and the duration of the study period.