Metaphor : Metaphors can
allow you to quickly organize information by comparing a complex idea to a
simple one. When you find relationships between information, come up with
analogies to increase your understanding. Compare neurons with waves on a
string. We will teach you about Metaphor.
Use All Your Senses : Abstract ideas are difficult to memorize
because they are far removed from our senses. Shift them closer by coming up
with vivid pictures, feelings and images that relate information together. When
I learned how to do a determinant of a matrix, we remembered the pattern by
visualizing our hands moving through the numbers, one adding and one
subtracting.
Leave No Islands : When you read through a textbook, every piece
of information should connect with something else you have learned. Fast
learners do this automatically, but if you leave islands of information, you
won’t be able to reach them during a test.
Build a Large
Foundation : Reading lots
and having a general understanding of many topics gives you a lot more
flexibility in finding metaphors in new topics. The more you already know, the
easier it is to learn.
Don’t Force : I don’t spend much time studying before exams.
Forcing information during the last few days is incredibly inefficient. Instead
try to slowly interlink ideas as they come to you so studying becomes a quick
recap rather than a first attempt at learning.
Build Models : Models are simple concepts that aren’t true by
themselves, but are useful for describing abstract ideas. Crystallizing one
particular mental image or experience can create a model you can reference when
trying to understand. When I was trying to tackle the concept of subspaces, I
visualized a blue background with a red plane going through it. This isn’t an
entirely accurate representation of what a subspace is, but it created a
workable image for future ideas.
Learning is in Your Head : Having
beautiful notes and a perfectly highlighted textbook doesn’t matter if you
don’t understand the information in it. Your only goal is to understand the
information so it will stick with you for assignments, tests and life. Don’t be
afraid to get messy when scrawling out ideas on paper and connecting them in
your head. Use notes and books as a medium for learning rather than an end
result.
