How to Become Smart - Lecture by Colin, a Yale University Student

Introduction

Lecturer: Colin, a student at Yale University studying computer science
Purpose of Lecture: To show three simple habits to become a genius
Three Reasons for Wanting to be Smart:
1. To get good grades
2. To get wealthy
3. To sound smart and earn respect without being perceived as nerdy

Importance of Reading: Fastest way to acquire knowledge and become smart by leveraging others' experiences
Personal Experience: Colin reads one book every 2 weeks, has been doing so since age 15
Recommended Reading: Start with one book a month, reading 10 minutes before bed
Types of Books to Read:
- Psychology:
  - The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
  - How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
  - Influence by Robert Cialdini
- Biographies/Stories:
  - Elon Musk: Tesla, SpaceX, and the Quest for a Fantastic Future by Ashlee Vance
  - Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins
  - Shoe Dog by Phil Knight
- Mindset/Thinking:
  - Mastery by Robert Greene
  - The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin
  - Principles by Ray Dalio
- Philosophy/Productivity:
  - Meditations by Marcus Aurelius
  - The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod
  - Feel-Good Productivity by Ali Abdaal
Effective Reading Tips: Apply knowledge and use active recall (practice questions) to absorb information better

Types of Content to Watch: Educational rather than entertaining
Recommended Podcasts:
- Andrew Huberman’s podcast on health
- How to Get Rich Without Getting Lucky by Naval Ravikant
- The Sam and Neil Podcast
- Diary of a CEO
- My First Million (startups focus)
Effective Watching Tips: Take notes actively while watching to retain information
Recommended YouTubers for Intellectual Growth:
- David Laid (fitness)
- Dan Koe (writing and focus)
- Colin’s own channel for overall intellectual development

Importance of Creation: Sharing knowledge through creation (YouTube videos, blogs, tweets) helps reinforce learning and inspire others
Personal Impact: Provides fulfillment and opportunities to help millions, builds a Social Circle
Benefits: High-income skill, enhances self-education, accountability, social recognition
Colin’s Journey: Growth from 0 to 100,000 subscribers in less than a year
Actionable Tip: Start creating content from what you learn, providing value to others