Ketiz Singh

Remembering Everything You Read: A Simple System for Efficient Learning

Hi there! Are you tired of reading a ton of information and then forgetting most of it? Well, I’ve got a system that can help you remember everything you read, study, or learn. I’ve been using this system for the past 7 years, starting from my medical school days all the way to reading research articles and books on productivity and business.

The Two Essential Stages of Learning

Let’s break down the learning process into two stages: consumption and digestion. Most people focus on consuming more information, thinking that it will help them remember and apply more. But that’s not how learning works. The key is not just what comes into your brain, but how much stays in your brain.

In the first stage, you consume information. In the second stage, you digest it. This digestion period is often neglected but crucial for retaining and using the knowledge effectively.

Debunking the Myth of Remembering Everything

Now, you might be thinking, can you really remember everything you read? The short answer is no, and that’s okay. Take the example of Kim Peak, a mega-genius with a supernatural memory due to a rare medical condition. However, his ability to reason and problem-solve was limited.

For most of us, the goal is not to remember everything but to remember what we need to know and apply it effectively. And that’s where my system comes in.

The Pacer System: Breaking Down Information

I break down the information into five categories using the acronym Pacer: Procedural, Analogous, Conceptual, Evidence, and Reference. Each category requires a specific process to help you manage and remember the information effectively.

• Procedural Information (P): Instructions on how to do something. Use the process of practice to master it.
• Analogous Information (A): Information related to what you already know. Use the process of critiquing to create analogies and deepen your understanding.
• Conceptual Information (C): Facts, explanations, theories. Use mapping or mind-mapping to connect the concepts and form a network of knowledge.
• Evidence Information (E): Detailed information to support conceptual knowledge. Store and rehearse this information to improve retention.
• Reference Information (R): Specific, detailed bits of information. Store and rehearse this information using flashcards for quick recall.

Remember, it’s essential to maintain a balance between consuming and digesting information. Spending more time digesting will help you retain more and build a strong knowledge foundation.

Closing Thoughts: Unlocking Efficient Learning

Learning efficiently involves mastering the processes that support high-performance learning. The system I shared with you today is just a small part of the puzzle. If you want to dive deeper into efficient learning strategies without spending years figuring it out, sign up for my free newsletter.

Thank you for tuning in, and remember, it’s not about remembering everything you read, but about remembering what you need to know and using that knowledge effectively. Happy learning!