Suppose you’re learning a skill like algebra, programming or drawing. Consider two different strategies for studying: Examples first. Before you try anything on your own, study examples of how other people solve similar problems. Problems first. Before looking at any examples, try to solve the problem independently. If you fail or don’t get very far, […]
Book Review — Pedigree: How Elite Students Get Elite Jobs
How much do skills matter for success? I review sociologist Lauren Rivera's eye-opening account of elite achievement.
More Recent Reading
About a year ago, I started a research project focused on the transfer of learning. Given the often disappointing evidence for learning transfer between the classroom and the real world, I was eager to dig into the research on apprenticeships and learning by doing. But the research turned out to be more complicated (and interesting!) […]
See-Do-Feedback: The Right Way To Practice
Practice makes perfect. But what's the best way to train? I review research showing the three ingredients to do it right.
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.