Feynman Learning Technique

Overview

• Effective method to learn something new, deepen understanding, or study for an exam.

Steps

1. Pick a Topic
   • Choose a topic you want to understand and start studying it.
2. Teach it
   • Write about the topic on a piece of paper as if teaching it to someone else.
   • Ideally, write and speak at the same time, like a teacher at a blackboard.
   • Helps realize what you understand and where you have gaps.
3. Review and Refine
   • If you get stuck, go back to studying the material.
   • Repeat the process until you can explain the whole topic from start to end.
4. Simplify
   • Repeat the process from the beginning, but simplify your language or use a graphic analogy.
   • Ensures you have a clear and simple explanation.
   • If the explanation is wordy or confusing, revisit the topic as understanding might still be lacking.

Why it Works

• Thinking about an idea by explaining it makes the learning method effective.
• Ability to explain an idea in simple language indicates deep understanding and long-term retention.

About Richard Feynman

• A leading theoretical physicist.
• Nobel Prize recipient for his work in quantum electrodynamics.
• Known for asking fellow mathematicians to explain concepts in simple language to ensure understanding.

Additional Resources

• Check out other Sprouts learning techniques for complementary methods.
• Feedback is welcomed in the comments, along with your favorite techniques.