The Science of Efficient Learning (course by Andrei Neagoie)
Tags: writing, productivity
Published: 2022-04-20 07:41:11

I'm currently taking this course to improve my way of learning, and when it comes to learning programming being efficient is not my strong suit. I'd spend hours on the computer (5-7hours) with minimal breaks. I thought by spending more time. I would retain more information, and get things done faster. I was wrong, but this course is helping me view things from a different perspective. 

I wrote a summary of the key concepts he talks about in hopes this helps someone else down the road who struggles with the same thing. 

(P.S. I'm still actively taking the course, so here are a few I got so far) 
 
- 
**_Focus v.s Diffuse mode_**: you don't need to always be in focus mode when learning something new. It's necessary to go into a non-focus mode (Diffuse mode) at times to give your brain a rest. It's not good to force yourself to stay focused all the time. You'll retain more info if you "turn off" your brain when you feel like you're getting distracted or need a break. (you'll feel more refreshed coming back to whatever you're working on after that break)

---
- 
**_The Science of Sleep_**: We all know that sleep is necessary to stay sharp. If we're too tired, there's no way we can be productive. I don't know anyone who can accomplish anything when they're tired. However, too much sleep can also leave you sluggish and more tired (been there, done that), so ensure to get the right amount ;). 

---
- 
**_Brain Training_**: It's important to do activities to make these concepts stick. These activities give the "memory" part of our brains a workout. Wash. Rinse. Repeat.

---
- 
**_Science of feedback_**: Negative and positive feedback both have their advantages. Negative(constructive) feedback gives people the chance to know what they need to improve, while positive feedback on something you've accomplished encourages you to continue further. At that point, you know you're doing something right ;). Having a balance of both can be very beneficial. 

---
- 
**_Procrastination_:** This is something we all suffer from at some point. Unfortunately, there is no easy fix or trick. The best thing to do is to do it anyway. Sometimes you have to roll up your sleeves and say, "screw it, let's do it". You'll find that once you start, it's easier to finish.
---
- 
**_Long and Short Term Memory_**: Be sure to practice, practice, and practice what you learn so it can sink into your brains. With practice we can shift it from our short-term, to our long-term memory. 

---
- 
**_Active v.s. Passive Learning_**: Passive learning is not taking action on what you're learning, like sitting back and watching videos without doing any activities to absorb these concepts. Compared to active learning. We're learning by doing, applying concepts into our own project etc. Active learning is essential, as we get to practice what we learn, which will make it stick in the long run.

---
- 
**_Science of Motivation_**: There are two ways to get motivated. (External and Internal) External motivation is doing something for a reward or to be praised. For example, applying for a job because the salary is high. Internal motivation comes from within and personal interest. For example, applying for that job because you like the company culture, and you believe you can learn and improve from those co-workers. It doesn't hurt to have External motivation every now and then. However, for efficient learning you should focus on having Internal motivation.

---
- 
**_Goals_**: Setting goals is essential to keep track of what you're trying to accomplish. Set goals but set them small so they're easier to manage and accomplish. You should follow the SMART(Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-based) goals principle for effective goal setting.

Stay tuned for Part 2 of Efficient Learning, enjoy!