Retrieving memories isn’t like checking out DVDs at Blockbuster (RIP). Each time you remember something you’re constructing a memory representation and relearning that information. Here’s why that means our learning strategies have to evolve with our career goals, from running Qbanks to studying with Human Dx.
Read moreHow to Apply Anki to Complex Diagrams: Breaking Down Differential Diagnoses
No matter your field or stage of learning, you'll likely need to learn complex algorithms. When you can't afford to miss things, "just understanding" isn't enough. Here's how Alex memorizes a differential diagnosis schema from the podcast Clinical Problem Solvers.
Read moreResidency Interviewing: 3 Evidence-Based Learning Strategies Than Can Help
It's almost impossible to believe it’s been over a year since Cathy and I started the seemingly never-ending process of residency interviewing. Here are three evidence-based learning strategies I applied which made the interviewing ordeal a smidge more tolerable.
Read moreStudying In New Spaces
As residents, we now rarely have uninterrupted chunks of personal time to focus on learning, much less utilize the pomodoro method. Trying to recapture hidden time throughout the day means studying while waiting for coffee or waiting to pick up the car from the body shop. This new reality got Cathy thinking about the hidden benefits of studying away from her desk—and one classic research study that has always stuck with her.
Read moreCramming: Skipping sleep for short-term gains
Cramming can actually leave learners feeling more satisfied. In fact, those who space out their learning often report feeling that their learning is inferior to cramming—even when they’re presented with their own objective gains in long-term retention.
Read moreCramming: I don't have time to study
One reason cramming feels good is that it requires very little planning. Most of the time, we’re faced with several different courses, all competing for our precious study time and with their own exam schedules. With the rapid march of each upcoming exam, it’s easier to just focus on what’s next. But you might have more time than you think.
Read moreCramming: The "Perks"
Most “professional” students will at some point find themselves in situations where the amount of material they need to learn far exceeds the amount of time they need to prove mastery. In this mini series, we will explore a couple of the factors at play, and how to tip the scales in favor of durable knowledge and the most efficient (and fun!) ways to achieve it.
Read moreMy Favorite Books: The Science of Achievement
High achievers are made, not born. Here are three of Alex’s favorite books that have led to real changes in how we think about success.
Read moreMy Favorite Books: Learning How to Learn
In researching evidence-based learning, we’ve encountered an avalanche of books, papers, blogs, and podcasts about learning how to learn effectively. It can seem overwhelming at times. A great place to begin is by picking a book and reading it cover to cover. Here are Alex’s favorites.
Read moreChunking: A Simple Way to Improve Memorability
Memory palaces nudge users into the practice of chunking, which is breaking down a larger pile of information into memorable groups so that it’s easier to remember. Here’s why that matters.
Read moreTouch It Once: The Value of Making Anki Cards Throughout My Day
A time management trick from an upper-level resident motivated me to try a new method for creating Anki cards while on the wards.
Read moreSpatial Memory in 2D: A Case for Taking Nonlinear Notes.
Are you someone who always remembers where on the page you wrote something? A simple note-taking method can harness that instinct to jumpstart your recall of new information.
Read moreOptimizing the Pomodoro Technique: Strategies for Maintaining Focus During Deep Work
I wrote last week about the Pomodoro Technique and its potential for fostering productive work. In the eight years I’ve applied the method, its focus-break-focus-break-etc prescription has worked wonders. Despite my best efforts, however, at times I still catch my mind wandering. The question becomes: How can I get the most out of my pomos? I discuss several strategies I’ve incorporated which help me keep distractions to a minimum.
Read moreThe Pomodoro Technique: Your Key to a Productive Day
Retrieval practice, spacing, the memory palace, and other evidence-based learning strategies will help you achieve your learning goals. However, without a schedule for implementing them in a focused way, you may find your efforts futile. In our age of distractions and socially acceptable multitasking, cutting through the chatter to focus is paramount. Enter the Pomodoro Technique.
Read moreThe Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up (Your Memory Palace)
Prone to a messy palace? Hop on the bandwagon and use Mari Kondo's method to keep a tidy space.
Read moreHit the Ground Running: A Quick Guide to Mastering the Memory Palace Before School Starts
We’ve received a few messages recently from people who are starting a professional school this year. While we love the memory palace technique, there can be a significant barrier to use, especially if you're about to enter a high-stakes learning environment. Here's an easy one-month ramp up to mastering the palace technique before you start a new learning adventure.
Read moreShould I Reserve Special Memory Palaces Like My Home?
Should special memory palaces (like your home) be reserved for more important topics? Alex shares his approach to palace allocation.
Read moreSilence Is Golden? White Noise, Coffee Shops, and the Learning Boost of Habituation
Do you prefer to work in silence? With music? The jury's still out on the benefits of white noise, but we've got our own preferences. Cathy shares her thoughts from a coffee shop.
Read moreDrawing Pictures: A Memory Technique That Works?
Alex discusses a recent New York Times article highlighting research on drawing pictures as a memory aid. Recent studies have uncovered that the technique can be surprisingly powerful. But why does it work? And can drawing pictures be sustainably implemented to improve learning?
Read moreHow Should Medical Students Use Memory Techniques in the Clinical Setting? [Video]
Ever wondered how best to apply memory techniques in the clinical setting? Should I use memory palaces for patient interviews? For presentations? How might practicing physicians make use of memory techniques? In the video below, we give an overview of how we think memory techniques are best applied in clinical practice.
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