How to Finish Homework FAST | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Learn how to finish homework assignments quickly and effectively using techniques like the hard-start jump-to-easy technique and previewing assignments.

Key Insights

• 🥺 Time pressure can increase concentration and productivity, leading to efficient homework completion.
• 🤔 Using the hard-start jump-to-easy technique engages both focused and diffuse modes of thinking, enhancing problem-solving abilities.
• 🛀 Detailed note-taking during example problems in class helps identify areas of confusion and facilitates independent application.
• 👨‍🏫 Previewing assignments after class or doing homework at school can optimize efficiency and reduce distractions.
• 🥶 Efficient homework completion frees up time for pursuing other skills or hobbies.
• 👀 Skillshare offers comprehensive courses on various skills, including Adobe Photoshop, for individuals looking to develop new abilities.
• 🏛️ Building a skill requires deliberate practice and time investment, similar to the process of mastering homework assignments.

Transcript

Let's talk about Theodore Roosevelt for a second. Back in 1876, before he was president of the United States, before he grew his epic mustache, that I sadly will never be able to equal, he was just a freshman at Harvard University. And as Edmund Morris points out in his biography, Roosevelt had a ton of interests at the time. Boxing, dance lessons,... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: How did Theodore Roosevelt excel at Harvard despite limited study time?

Roosevelt used the time pressure caused by his busy schedule to amplify his concentration, resulting in intense, focused studying during short periods of time. This allowed him to perform well in his classes.

Q: How does the hard-start jump-to-easy technique work?

The technique involves starting with a difficult problem, then disengaging and moving to an easier problem once stuck. Going back to the difficult problem later often leads to new insights, as it engages both focused and diffuse modes of thinking.

Q: How can writing down every step of example problems in class help with homework?

By having a detailed representation of what the professor did on the board, students can refer back to their notes and identify the specific areas where they are confused or need more understanding. This helps bridge the gap between following along in class and successfully completing similar problems on their own.

Q: Is doing homework at school more efficient than doing it at home?

Doing homework at school can create a conducive environment for focused work, especially when there is a time pressure due to upcoming classes. However, some individuals might prefer working at home. In such cases, previewing assignments immediately after class can help reduce lag time and get a head start on homework.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Theodore Roosevelt excelled at Harvard University despite having numerous interests and limited study time compared to his peers.

• The "hard-start jump-to-easy" technique allows for effective problem-solving by engaging both focused and diffuse modes of thinking.

• Writing down every step of example problems in class helps bridge the gap between understanding concepts and applying them independently.

• Doing homework at school or previewing assignments immediately after class can increase efficiency and reduce lag time.