The Perfect Learning System
Active Recall
PIPR Learning System
Priming
- Diagram I – Framework construction via Cornell notes or mind maps
- Overview and Key Concepts – Framework of main ideas via grouping and linking
- Pretesting – Self-testing before the lecture and preparing questions in advance
In-Class Notes
- Annotated Diagram II – Acquiring a highly valuable content of information on top of Diagram I
- Key Observations – Points of emphasis to be included after prerequisite knowledge is met
- Active Recall Questions – Self-testing questions written for continuous information retrieval
Post-Class Immediate Review
- Reconstruction – Reordering the relational groupings of active recall questions and Diagram II
- Key Observations Linkage – Linking the key observations to the overarching framework
- ARQ Self-Testing – Self-testing with active recall questions and mending knowledge gaps
Revision
- Diagram III – Optimized and coherent framework of linked groups and ideas (GRINDE system)
- ARQ Applications – Blurting method, Feynman technique, practice tests and exercises
- Knowledge Retrieval – Spaced repetition, interleaving, optimal breaks via Pomodoro technique
OK4R Study Method
- Overview – Understand the main ideas and the central focus of the study
- Key Ideas – Acquire all important concepts in the material
- Read – Study the material while connecting the concepts with the overview and the key ideas
- Recall – Retrieve knowledge without referencing the source material and assess for correctness
- Relate – Connect the overarching concepts with personal experiences and principles
- Review – Revision of knowledge via spaced repetition and cognitive recall strategies
CODE Note-Taking System
- C – Capture information that is essential and valuable
- O – Organize the information collected
- D – Distill the information into its basic form
- E – Express the information through cognitive processing and active recall
Self-Testing System
Feynman Technique
- Express the ideas in a concise manner
- Apply all learned concepts into a simplified context of instruction
- Identify knowledge gaps and areas for future improvement
Blurting Method
- Identify the material to be covered
- Familiarize with the material using the OK4R method
- Retrieve information without referencing to the source material
- Assess responses and revise for corrections
- Reiterate the process until all knowledge gaps are filled
Practice Tests
- Attempt to answer in writing without referencing to external notes
- Actively engage with the problem during the first stage of cognitive friction
- Resort to previously made active recall questions if needed
- Reference source material to provide optimal solutions as required
- Assess and explain any incorrect answers during revision
Spaced Repetition
Leitner System
- Schedule – Create a spaced retrieval timeline with every consecutive section planned at an extended interval from the prior
- Algorithm – Spaced repetition intervals may be mapped using the base two exponential function
- Classify – Identify which topics and sections are to be covered on the exam and place them in the first section
- Test – Apply active recall via self-testing and move successfully retrieved concepts to the subsequent section
- Reiterate – Repeat the spaced retrieval process for all classified concepts
End of Day Review
Revise the material for around twenty minutes at the end of the day
Revision Timetable Systems
Prospective Revision Timetable
- Include all dates available for studying in the first column of a spreadsheet
- Add one-hour intervals to specify study times as needed
- Fill in syllabus topics accordingly using the Leitner System for spaced retrieval
Retrospective Revision Timetable
- Include syllabus topics in the first column of a spreadsheet
- Subsequent columns will consist of dates during which topics were last studied
- Highlight the dates on which topical comprehension has been proved sufficient
Interleaved Practice
- Combine syllabus topics in a varied order of study
- Space out revisions and practice sessions via time blocking and the Pomodoro technique