How to Study 3x Faster Instantly (from a Top 1% Med Student)

Summary

Salim, a med student, shares his insights on effective studying, emphasizing simplicity over complex routines. He advises using a branched system with up to three methods: memorization, understanding, and time management. Salim stresses the importance of preparing with questions, reflecting on study methods, and balancing academic work with extracurricular activities to build a strong portfolio. He also highlights the necessity of improving thinking speed to excel in competitive environments.

Takeaways

• 📚 **Efficient Studying**: Salim emphasizes that studying efficiently means spending less time and achieving higher grades.
• 🤔 **Simplicity is Key**: High-performing students use simple study routines that are sustainable and effective.
• 🌿 **Branched System**: Limiting study methods to a maximum of three (memorizing, understanding, time management) provides flexibility and covers all bases.
• 🧠 **Active Recall and Spaced Repetition**: For memorization, active recall and spaced repetition are effective techniques.
• 🔍 **Feynman Technique**: To understand complex concepts, Feynman's technique is recommended to ensure comprehensive understanding.
• ⏱️ **Time Management**: Focusing on covering a set amount of topics or questions daily rather than studying for a set number of hours.
• 📖 **Exam Preparation**: The best way to prepare for exams is by practicing questions to understand what examiners look for.
• 📈 **Method Reflection**: Reflecting on exam performance and study methods helps identify areas for improvement and adaptability.
• 🏆 **Beyond Studying**: Top students understand the importance of building a portfolio through projects and research to stand out.
• 💡 **Thinking Skills**: Developing higher levels of thinking skills is crucial for becoming a top student and increasing study efficiency.

Q & A

What is the main advantage of studying efficiently according to Salim?

Studying efficiently allows you to achieve the highest grades while still having time for other aspects of life.

Why does Salim suggest keeping study routines simple?

Salim believes that simple routines are more sustainable and require less effort, making them more effective in the long run compared to complicated routines.

What is the branched system Salim refers to for studying?

The branched system is a method where Salim limits himself to using a maximum of three study methods at a time to maintain flexibility and effectiveness.

What are the three main study methods Salim uses?

Salim uses active recall and spaced repetition for memorization, Feynman technique for understanding complex concepts, and a focus on completing a certain amount of topics or questions for time management.

How does Salim suggest preparing for exams?

Salim recommends preparing for exams by doing practice questions, which helps to understand the examiner's perspective and improves pattern recognition.

What percentage of study time during exam season should be spent doing questions according to Salim?

Salim suggests that 90% of study time during exam season should be dedicated to doing questions.

Why is method reflection important in studying, as mentioned by Salim?

Method reflection helps in evaluating the effectiveness of study techniques and identifying areas for improvement, leading to more efficient studying.

How does Salim apply his experience from medical school to studying?

Salim applies the principle of learning by doing, which is common in medical school, to studying by focusing on practice questions and method reflection.

What is the importance of building a portfolio according to Salim?

Building a portfolio is important because it supplements studying, increases the ability to apply knowledge, and helps stand out by showing commitment and credibility in the field.

How does Salim link the ability to think faster with being a top student?

Salim links faster thinking to being a top student because it allows for more efficient studying and better performance in competitive academic environments.

What additional resources does Salim provide for further study improvement?

Salim provides videos on the three main study methods he uses, and another video discussing the 6 levels of thinking to help viewers improve their study skills and thinking abilities.