How to Learn Anything Faster: The Science-Backed Techniques You Need to Know
In the fast-paced world we live in today, being able to learn quickly is a superpower. Whether you’re learning a new language, acquiring a technical skill, or just keeping up in your career, learning faster can be a competitive advantage. But how do you do it without burning out or forgetting everything the next day?
The best part is, that science has got your back. Scientists have spent decades learning about how our brains take in, process, and store information. Using those findings, you can hack your learning process and get more done in less time.
In this blog, we’ll explore the most powerful, science-supported methods to assist you in learning anything quickly. These methods are actionable, simple to apply, and tailored to work even in the most hectic schedules. Let’s begin!
1. The Power of Spaced Repetition
What It Is:
Spaced repetition is a studying method where you look over data at expanding interim periods throughout your lifetime. Rather than cram, you return to the substance exactly when you’re prepared to lose it, making your memory all the more powerful.
Why It Works:
Your mind is prearranged to ignore things that are not being used. Spaced repetition battles against this by incessantly uncovering you to the material so that it lodges in your long-term memory.
How to Use It:
- Use apps like Anki or Quizlet to create digital flashcards.
- Review the material after 1 day, 3 days, 1 week, and so on.
Example: If you’re learning Spanish, review vocabulary words daily, then every other day, then weekly.
Real-Life Example:
Imagine you’re preparing for a certification exam. Instead of cramming the night before, study for 30 minutes a day for two weeks. Use spaced repetition to revisit key concepts, and you’ll retain far more information.
2. The Feynman Technique: Learn by Teaching
What It Is:
Named after Nobel laureate physicist Richard Feynman, this method entails explaining a subject in easy language as if you were teaching it to someone else.
Why It Works:
Teaching compels you to divide complicated notions into easy, comprehensible pieces. If you cannot explain it easily, then you don’t really grasp it well enough.
How to Use It
- Select a subject you wish to learn.
- Explain it like you would to a 5-year-old.
- See where there are gaps in your knowledge and go back over the material.
- Break it down and make it simple until you can explain it without even thinking.
Real-Life Example:
For example, suppose you’re studying about blockchain technology. Attempt to define it to someone who has no idea what that is. If you get stuck, refer to your materials and plug the gaps.
3. Chunking: Break It Down
What It Is:
Chunking is where you divide high volumes of information into smaller units that are more manageable.
Why It Works
Our working memory has only limited capacity. You simplify it for your brain to process and remember information through chunking.
How to Use It:
- Break the material into manageable pieces or chunks.
- Master one chunk before you proceed to the next.
Example: If you’re learning to play the guitar, break down chords, strumming patterns, and songs into separate chunks.
Real-Life Example:
When learning a new programming language, don’t try to memorize all the syntax at once. Start with basic commands, then move on to loops, functions, and so on.
4. Active Recall: Test Yourself
What It Is:
Active recall is the practice of testing yourself on the material instead of passively rereading or highlighting.
Why It Works:
Retrieving information from memory strengthens neural connections, making it easier to recall later.
How to Use It:
- Use flashcards or practice quizzes.
- Ask yourself questions about the material.
Example: Close the book after reading a chapter and jot down everything you can recall.
Real-Life Example:
If you’re preparing for a history test, don’t simply re-read your notes. Instead, test yourself on important dates, events, and people.
5. Interleaved Practice: Mix It Up
What It Is:
Interleaved practice is intermixing varied topics or skills within a study session rather than concentrating on a single thing.
Why It Works:
Combining topics challenges your brain to think more, enhancing problem-solving and long-term memory.
How to Use It:
- Switch between different subjects or skills.
Example: If you’re learning math, mix algebra, geometry, and calculus problems in one session.
Real-Life Example:
A basketball player might practice shooting, dribbling, and passing in a single session instead of focusing solely on shooting.
6. Use Multisensory Learning
What It Is:
Multisensory learning uses more than one sense (sight, sound, touch) to make learning easier to grasp and remember.
Why It Works:
The more senses engaged, the more routes your brain establishes to retrieve and use information.
How to Use It:
- Watch videos, listen to podcasts, and take written notes.
- Reinforce learning using diagrams, mind maps, or actual items.
Example: When studying anatomy, use 3D models or VR to see the human body.
Real-Life Example:
When learning a new recipe, watch a cooking video, listen to the steps, and practice the steps manually.
7. Set Specific Goals and Track Progress
What It Is:
Clear, measurable goals keep you on track and motivated.
Why It Works:
Goals provide direction and a sense of achievement, boosting motivation and productivity.
How to Use It:
- Use the SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound).
- Break big goals into little milestones.
Example: Instead of “I want to learn coding,” set a goal such as “I will complete a Python course in 4 weeks.”
Real-Life Example:
If you’re learning to play the piano, set a goal to master a specific song within a month. Track your progress by recording yourself weekly.
8. Optimize Your Environment
What It Is:
Your work environment is essential to your capacity to concentrate and learn.
Why It Works:
A clean, distraction-free environment keeps your mind concentrated and capable of learning better.
How to Use It:
- Get a quiet, well-lit area.
- Eliminate distractions such as your phone or social media.
- Utilize devices such as noise-cancelling headphones or focus apps.
Real-Life Example:
If you’re working from home, create a dedicated workspace with minimal distractions. Use apps like Forest or Focus@Will to stay on track.
9. Take Breaks and Sleep
What It Is:
Taking frequent breaks and sleeping well are indispensable for efficient learning.
Why It Works:
Breaks avert burnout, whereas sleep consolidates memories and enhances retention.
How to Use It:
- Use the Pomodoro Technique: Study for 25 minutes and rest for 5 minutes.
- Sleep 7-9 hours at night.
Example: Take a walk or nap after a prolonged study to spark your brain.
Real-Life Example:
A test student must never have all-nighters. Instead, study in focused sprints and sleep tighter for retrieval.
10. Stay Curious and Enjoy the Process
What It Is:
Building curiosity and enjoyment makes learning more fulfilling and sustainable. When you’re genuinely interested in a topic, you’re more likely to stay motivated and retain information.
How to Use It:
- Connect the material to your interests or goals.
- Celebrate small wins and progress.
Example: If you’re learning photography, focus on capturing moments that inspire you.
Real-Life Example:
An education data analysis would be a learning data analysis that would revolve around how it will help them solve problems for actual needs in their business.
Conclusion
Learning faster isn’t trying harder—it’s trying smarter. By using these research-tested methods daily, you’ll be able to learn new things, memorize more information, and get what you want to do done in fewer hours.
The key to lifelong learning is persistence and curiosity. Start small, experiment with the following approaches, and find out what works best for you.
Now it is your turn! Which one do you most eagerly want to experiment with? Let us hear from you through the comments section below and do not forget to share the post with all those interested in learning smarter and faster.
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