A Mind for Numbers: How to Excel at Math and Science (Even If You Flunked Algebra)

by Barbara Oakley

SUMMING IT UP Use the focused mode to first start grappling with concepts and problems in math and science. After you’ve done your first hard focused work, allow the diffuse mode to take over. Relax and do something different! When frustration arises, it’s time to switch your attention to allow the diffuse mode to begin working in the background. It’s best to work at math and science in small doses—a little every day. This gives both the focused and diffuse modes the time they need to do their thing so you can understand what you are learning. That’s how solid neural structures are built. If procrastination is an issue, try setting a timer for twenty-five minutes and focusing intently on your task without allowing yourself to be drawn aside by text messages, web surfing, or other attractive distractions. There are two major memory systems: Working memory—like a juggler who can keep only four items in the air. Long-term memory—like a storage warehouse that can hold large amounts of material, but needs to be revisited occasionally to keep the memories accessible. Spaced repetition helps move items from working memory to long-term memory. Sleep is a critical part of the learning process. It helps you: Make the neural connections needed for normal thinking processes—which is why sleep the night before a test is so important. Figure out tough problems and find meaning in what you are learning. Strengthen and rehearse the important parts of what you are learning and prune away t...