Effective Learning Through Writing

I have been sharing a weekly newsletter for 14 consecutive weeks. It has been an intriguing three-month journey during which I've learned a lot about myself and my thought process in writing. Judging by the open rates from my email subscribers and direct page views (come on, at some point, you still need to subscribe), you are likely reading this alongside nearly two thousand people. In the grand scheme of things, there's still a long way to go, but in reality, it's quite a remarkable number when I truly think about it. So, first off, THANK YOU. I genuinely appreciate the support and enjoy receiving your replies. Second, below, I share the technique I've been using to process my writing. This technique not only shortens my word count, but also helps me generate analogies and concrete examples to bring the learning to life (which I know most of you like).

The Feynman Technique, named after Nobel prize winner Richard Feynman, exemplifies the power of writing in the learning process. To employ this technique: (1) Select a concept you wish to better understand; (2) Explain the concept as if you were teaching it to someone else, using plain language and avoiding technical jargon; (3) If you get stuck, return to the source material to review and fill in the gaps (The act of writing during this phase actually enhances learning); and (4) Simplify your explanations and create analogies.

There are many benefits of writing things down as if we were teaching it to someone else. The act of trying to clearly articulate the information highlights gaps in your understanding. As you write it down, it will be clear which areas are challenging or include unclear explanations. The Feynman Technique emphasizes the iterative nature of learning, as you will most likely have to repeat the process until you can articulate the concept simply and effortlessly. In essence, the act of writing serves as a dynamic bridge between learning and mastery.

How can you try this yourself? I recommend doing something I first heard from Derek Sivers four years ago, and that I have been doing ever since: Using writing to ask mentors for help. I see a lot of analogies between this concept and the Feynman Technique.

1. Select something that is a problem for you, where you can use some advice. Then, select any mentorship figure (real connection or imaginary) you think can give you a good advice.

2. Explain the concept to them in a simple and short form. What is the problem? What are your options? Clearly state your thoughts about each option.

3. Go back to the source material to fill in the gaps. Challenge your own options, create new alternatives, and try to anticipate any question you might get from your mentor.

4. Simplify your writing. Remember, this is most likely a busy person, so make it worth their time, simplify this writing in as few words as possible.

The solution to your original problem will be much clear now. Most of the times, you have simplified it to the extent that you don't need to send this anymore.

Be your own mentor first,

Jorge Luis Pando

"Truth is, I’ve hardly talked with my mentors in years. None of them know they are my mentors. And one doesn’t know I exist." - Derek Sivers