Day 7: How to Determine What to Learn | How to Learn Anything Course

About this Video

• Video Title: Day 7: How to Determine What to Learn | How to Learn Anything Course
• Channel: Plato University
• Speakers: Brandon Stover
• Duration: 00:13:53

Introduction

This video, part of Plato University's "How to Learn Anything" course, focuses on determining what to learn and creating a structured learning plan. It guides viewers through a process of self-assessment and goal setting to identify the most effective learning path.

Key Takeaways

1. Assess Driving Factors: Before deciding what to learn, understand the task, requirements, assessment methods, and available time/resources. Learning objectives or past exams can provide guidance.
2. Goal Setting (SMART): Set three types of goals: long-term (aspirational), milestone (manageable steps), and process (daily actions). Use the SMART method (Specific, Measurable, Ambitious, Realistic, Time-limited) for effective goal setting. Mental contrasting (comparing current and future states) can enhance motivation.
3. Narrow Scope, Expand Later: Begin with a focused learning scope and gradually broaden it as you progress. Example: Learn enough Mandarin for basic conversations before aiming for fluency.
4. Prioritize Learning: Utilize the Pareto Principle (80/20 rule) to identify the 20% of information yielding 80% of results. Skill stacking (combining skills from different fields) can create unique capabilities.
5. Emphasize/Exclude Technique: Refine your learning plan by emphasizing relevant elements and omitting or delaying less crucial ones based on your goals. Focus on "just-in-time" learning.