XMind

Learning Tips

1. Slow down.

   1. Don't just read. Stop and think. Don't just skip to the answer. Imagine that someone really is asking the question.

   2. The more you understand, the less you have to memorize.

2. Do the exercises. Write your own notes.

   1. Use a Pencil. There's plenty of evidence that physical activity while learning can increase the learning.

3. Talk about it. Out loud.

   1. Speaking activates a different part of the brain.

   2. You'll learn more quickly, and you might uncover ideas you hadn't known were there when you were reading about it.

4. Drink water. Lots of it.

   1. Your brain works best in a nice bath of fluid.

   2. Dehydration (which can happen before you ever feel thirsty) decreases cognitive function.

5. Listen to your brains.

   1. If you find yourself starting to skim the surface or forget what you just read, it's time for a break.

   2. Once you go past a certain point, you won't learn faster by trying to shove more in, and you might even hurt the process.