Learning can be tough. This is true especially if the subjects under consideration are generally perceived to be tough. Maths and Science are some of the most common examples we can think of in this category. Though most of us undergo some form of basic training in them through our schooling years not many understand them conceptually. This is because getting successful at them in the long term requires skills like analytical reasoning and complex problem-solving. Education that promotes the development of such advanced skills is known as deep learning. However, schools are normally not equipped to deal with such requirements. So what can be done at an individual level to develop deeper learning? Let’s find out.

1. Expose Yourself:
Memory tends to diminish over a period of time. It happens at a faster rate in the initial phases of learning and quite slower later on. This is explained scientifically using the concept of the Forgetting Curve.

This curve shows how information is lost over time when there is no attempt to retain it. So the more you phase out your learning and the more times you expose yourself to any information the better you will retain it. Exposing more will also allow you the scope of thinking more and asking more questions. This will eventually lead to a deeper level of understanding of any given topic.

2. Drill the Basics:
Big problems are nothing but a combination of smaller problems. So the real skill lies in breaking them down into solvable chunks. For that the knowledge and identification of basics are important. The same is true in the case of science and maths. They all seem so easy when studying the basics. But it’s a challenge for most of us when we are given an application-based problem to solve. The solution is to make sure your foundation is right. Try to look at the concepts from different angles. Ask as many questions as you can. Make your basics so strong that you don’t need to think a lot while trying to identify the building blocks of those big complicated problems.

3. Slow Down:
Speed is not always great, especially when you are trying to really understand something. So when you are building your foundation, it is important to slow things down and give your brain ample time to assimilate the concepts. Use multiple modes of learning like writing down what you see or hear or teaching someone what you recently learnt.

4. Clear your confusion:
Understanding a problem is the first step in solving it. So don’t shy away from something that confuses you. A lot of times confusion is a sign that your brain is really working at it. Understand what confuses you and clarify your doubts before proceeding to the next step. Look it up on the internet, read more about it or talk to your friend or teacher about it. The more questions you ask the better will be your conceptual clarity.

5. Never Multitask:
Being a multi-tasker is a passé. We never really do multiple things at the same time. Even though we may think so, our brain either doesn’t spend equal amounts of attention on each one of those tasks or one of them might be muscle memory for us. So don’t listen to lyrical songs or watch TV while studying. If you want to take some time off, do it while not studying simultaneously.

These are just a few tips you can implement in your study routines to help you achieve deeper learning. What is your motivation behind learning something? Is it just to pass the tests or get better at what you know? Do share your views in the comments section below.