Hey folks,
Later this week, I was scrolling through YouTube and I found a video by Drishti Sharma, where she talks about Meta-Learning today I’ll share everything that I learned from that video.
Let’s start with “What is Meta-Learning”?
Whether picking up a new language, mastering a musical instrument, or adapting to changes in your career, accelerating your learning process can give you a significant edge. But how do successful people manage to absorb new skills so efficiently? The answer lies in meta-learning — the science of learning how to learn.
Meta-learning isn’t just about memorizing facts or practicing endlessly. It’s about understanding the techniques and strategies that make learning more effective and sustainable. By tapping into the neuroscience of how our brains process and retain information, you can unlock your true potential and master any skill faster than you ever thought possible.
In the video, Drishti talks about 5 powerful techniques, that will transform the way your approach to learning.
So, grab a pen and paper, and let’s dive into the art of meta-learning because learning how to learn is the ultimate skill you need to succeed in life.
1. Apply the 80/20 Rule(Pareto Principle)
This is quite the popular principle, which tells that only 20% of your effort yields 80% of your results. So, instead of getting bogged down by unnecessary details, prioritize the essential concepts and skills that will give the biggest payoff. For example, when learning a new language, focus on the most commonly used words and phrases rather than obscure vocabulary. This targeted approach helps you progress faster and keeps you motivated.
To make the 80/20 rule work for you, start identifying the key areas in your learning that will bring the most significant results. Break down your subject into smaller parts and ask yourself: “Which of these will have the most immediate impact?” This technique not only saves time but also ensures that you’re always working on what matters most. Over time, you’ll notice that by concentrating your energy on high-yield tasks, your overall efficiency skyrockets.
2. Teach What You Learn
Drishti has explained, that one of the most effective ways to solidify your knowledge is by teaching it to someone else.
By breaking down complex ideas into simple explanations, you reinforce your understanding and identify any gaps in your knowledge. This method not only helps in better retention but also boosts your confidence in the subject.
For instance, if you’re learning about photosynthesis, instead of just memorizing the steps, try explaining it to a field as if they were a child: “Plants are like little kitchens. They take sunlight, water, and air to cook up their food.” The act of simplifying complex information forces your brain to process it deeply, making the knowledge stick.
3. Embrace Feedback and Continuous Improvement
Feedback is crucial for growth, Regularly seek constructive criticism from mentors, peers, or even self-assessment tools. This continuous feedback loop helps you identify mistakes, correct them, and refine your skills more efficiently. The faster you recognize areas for improvement, The quicker you can progress.
this technique is inspired by the concept of deliberate practice. Deliberate practice isn’t just about repetition; it’s about practicing with a purpose, focusing on areas where you’re weak, and continuously pushing your limits.
For example, if you’re learning to play the piano and struggle with a specific chord progression, spend extra time practicing that section instead of playing the entire piece repeatedly. By actively seeking feedback and zeroing in on your weaknesses, your skills will improve exponentially.
4. Shift your Identity to Support Learning
So, this one is one of the popular methods discussed in a book named “Atomic Habits” where James Clear(Author) talks about how instead of thinking “I’m trying to learn this skill,” reframe it to “I am a learner of this skill.”
Your mindset plays a significant role in your learning journey. Clear emphasizes that lasting change comes from shifting your identity.
For example, if you’re trying to build a habit of running, don’t just say, “I’m trying to run regularly.” Instead, shift your identity to “I am a runner.” This subtle change reinforces your commitment and helps you stay consistent, even when challenges arise.
When you see yourself as a writer, a coder, or a musician, you’re more likely to adopt the habits and behaviors that align with that identity. This mindset shift creates a positive feedback loop that accelerates your learning and keeps you motivated.
Clear illustrates this with an example from Atomic Habits: Imagine two people trying to quit smoking. When offered a cigarette, one says, “No thanks, I’m trying to quit,” while the other says, “No thanks, I’m not a smoker.” The second person has embraced a new identity, making it easier to stick to the change. Apply this same principle to learning — embrace the identity of being a learner, and you’ll naturally adopt habits that support growth.
5. Have the Courage to Feel Uncomfortable
There is one popular quote
“Comfort Zone is a beautiful place, but nothing grows in there”.
Yeah, you need to have the courage to ditch the comfort zone, and get out of it and then try new things.
Individuals who believe their abilities can be developed through effort and perseverance are more likely to succeed than those with a fixed mindset.
Consider the example of learning to swim. At first, the water feels unfamiliar and intimidating. You might struggle with floating or breathing techniques, and it can be tempting to give up. But by pushing through that discomfort, practicing regularly, and embracing each small improvement, you’ll eventually find yourself swimming with ease.
The discomfort you experience is a sign that you’re pushing your boundaries, and that’s where real progress happens. By welcoming challenges and viewing failures as opportunities to learn, you create an environment where continuous improvement becomes second nature.
Those with a growth mindset saw challenging problems as opportunities to learn, while those with a fixed mindset avoided them. Over time, the growth-minded students not only improved their skills but also developed a love for learning, proving that embracing discomfort leads to long-term success.
Final thoughts
Learning doesn’t have to be a slow, tedious process. By applying these meta-learning techniques, you can accelerate your growth, overcome challenges, and master any skill with confidence. Remember, the key is not just to work harder but to work smarter. Stay consistent, stay curious, and most importantly, enjoy the journey of learning
This blog was inspired by a video from Drishti Sharma, where she shares her personal experiences with meta-learning. You can check out her insightful video here to dive deeper into these concepts and see how they apply in real life.
If you found these tips helpful, share your thoughts in the comments below! What learning techniques have worked for you? I’d love to hear about your experiences.