A popular meme is that knowing a lot of facts is unimportant for being able to think well. Albert Einstein stated this idea best when he said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.” Perhaps in a previous time, when instant access to answers on Google or Wikipedia wasn’t available, facts were important. But nowadays, the […]
Easily Distracted? Use Orienting Tasks While Learning.
I like the polar bear game. The game is simple: don’t think about polar bears. First person to do so loses. It’s mostly a gag because it’s impossible to play. Trying not to think about polar bears causes you to think about polar bears and you lose. The lesson of the polar bear game is […]
Why I’m Skeptical About SRS for Conceptual Subjects
Spaced repetition software, such as Anki, works by making flashcards which will pop up to test you, just at the moment it estimates you’re most likely to forget. I was initially wary of the tool, but I quickly converted when learning Chinese. If you need to memorize tons of information, there are few tools more […]
Make Plans Work on 20% Effort
I’m currently doing an experimental pilot course with Cal Newport about applying the ideas of deliberate practice to a career setting. To get better feedback, we limited the course to fifteen people. We also had the potential applicants jump through a number of hoops to eliminate the uncommitted. A $500 tuition fee, application form including […]
I'm a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, podcast host, computer programmer and an avid reader. Since 2006, I've published weekly essays on this website to help people like you learn and think better. My work has been featured in The New York Times, BBC, TEDx, Pocket, Business Insider and more. I don't promise I have all the answers, just a place to start.