The problem this solves
“I 'know' the topic but I can't apply it. What's wrong?”
Primary keyword: surface vs deep learning
What you'll learn
- What surface learning looks like
- What deep learning looks like
- Five signals you've only learned the surface
- A 14-day depth-only week
The science behind it: Deep Processing
Deep processing is engaging with material at the level of meaning and connection rather than at the level of surface features or rote repetition.
Why it matters
Only deep processing produces understanding that survives time and transfers to new contexts.
How to apply it
- After any reading, write a short paragraph in your own words.
- Ask 'why' and 'how' questions about the material before moving on.
- Compare and contrast new ideas with each other instead of treating them as isolated.
Common mistakes
- Stopping at memorisation without checking for understanding.
- Doing deep processing once and then switching to massed review.
- Mistaking the ability to recite the material for having processed it deeply.
Read the full concept: Deep Processing.
Where this fits
Part of module Depth and Understanding.
More articles in this module
- Build Mental Models of Hard Topics : mental models learning
- Learn Anything With Analogy : analogy learning
- The Wrong Analogy Trap : wrong analogy
- Elaborate on a Textbook Chapter in 20 Minutes : elaboration chapter
- Transfer of Learning: How to Make Knowledge Travel : transfer of learning