Techniques study feynman learn by explaining - study techniques
The Feynman study technique is a powerful and effective method for learning any subject in depth, based on the premise that if you really understand something, you should be able to explain it simply. Richard Feynman, a prominent physicist and Nobel laureate, used this approach to teach complex concepts in an accessible way. The key is to learn by explaining what you have learned, a process that forces you to simplify and go deeper into the subject matter.
Steps of Feynman's technique
- Choose a topic: Start by selecting a topic that you want to learn or understand better. It is essential that the topic is something that interests or motivates you, as motivation is key to effective learning.
- Explain the topic in your own words: Write a detailed explanation of the topic, as if you were explaining it to someone with no prior knowledge. The challenge here is to use the simplest language possible, avoiding technical terms or specialized jargon. This will help you identify the parts of the topic that you do not yet fully understand.
- Identify gaps in your knowledge: During the previous step, you will probably realize that there are concepts or parts of the topic that you do not fully understand. This is a crucial time to investigate and fill in those knowledge gaps. In doing so, you reinforce your understanding of the topic.
- Simplify and organize the information: Once you have covered all the important points, revisit your explanation. The goal is to make it as clear and understandable as possible. If necessary, create analogies that make it easier to understand complex concepts. Make sure that anyone without experience in the subject can understand what you are explaining.
- Teach others: Finally, the last step is to share what you have learned. Talking about the topic with friends, colleagues or even blogging about it will consolidate your learning. Teaching others is a very powerful way to internalize the knowledge and make sure you really understand it.
Why does it work?
The science behind Feynman's technique is linked to the concept of active learning. By explaining what you know in your own words, your brain is forced to process and reorganize the information, which facilitates long-term retention. In addition, this approach allows you to quickly spot gaps in your knowledge, which helps you to strengthen your understanding on an ongoing basis.
By applying this technique consistently, you can become an expert in any field of study. The combination of explaining, simplifying and teaching leads to much more effective and lasting learning than simply reading or studying passively.