Learn Like a Pro

About the Author

Barbara Oakley and Olav Schewe, co-authors of "Learn Like a Pro," bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the realm of learning strategies. Barbara Oakley is an engineering professor at Oakland University, renowned for her work in teaching effective learning techniques. She became widely recognized after her online course "Learning How to Learn" became one of the most popular MOOCs globally. Her personal journey from struggling with mathematics to mastering it and teaching others how to learn effectively is a testament to the power of the techniques she advocates. Oakley’s other books, such as "A Mind for Numbers," further explore the science of learning, making her a leading figure in the field of educational psychology.

Olav Schewe, an educational technology entrepreneur and author of the internationally successful "Super Student," complements Oakley’s expertise with his own experiences in overcoming academic challenges. Schewe’s work focuses on developing better learning methods that can be applied in both academic and professional contexts. His approach is grounded in practical techniques that anyone can use to improve their learning outcomes. Together, Oakley and Schewe have crafted "Learn Like a Pro" as a guide that blends cutting-edge cognitive science with actionable strategies, making it accessible and useful for learners of all ages and backgrounds.

Their collaboration is particularly powerful because it merges Oakley’s deep understanding of cognitive science with Schewe’s practical insights into how these principles can be applied in everyday learning situations. Both authors have personal stories of overcoming academic difficulties, which they use to inspire and guide readers who might be facing similar challenges. Their message is clear: Anyone can learn more effectively if they understand how their brain works and apply the right strategies.

Main Idea

"Learn Like a Pro" is a comprehensive guide to improving learning through a better understanding of cognitive psychology and neuroscience. The authors argue that by adopting learning methods that align with how the brain naturally functions, anyone can enhance their ability to learn, remember, and apply new information. The book provides actionable strategies for optimizing memory, boosting focus, and increasing motivation, making it a valuable resource for students, professionals, and lifelong learners alike.

At the heart of "Learn Like a Pro" is the belief that effective learning is accessible to everyone, regardless of their starting point. The authors challenge the notion that some people are simply not "wired" for learning certain subjects, suggesting instead that most difficulties stem from ineffective learning strategies. By applying the techniques outlined in the book, readers can unlock their full learning potential and achieve greater success in their academic and professional pursuits. The book demystifies the learning process, breaking it down into manageable steps that anyone can follow to improve their skills and knowledge.

Oakley and Schewe emphasize that learning is not just about absorbing information but about understanding how to make that information stick in your brain. They introduce the concept of learning as a skill that can be developed and refined over time, just like any other skill. This approach is empowering because it shifts the focus from innate ability to practical strategies that anyone can use to become a better learner. The book is filled with tips and techniques that are grounded in cognitive science, making it both practical and scientifically sound.

Table of Contents

1. The Science of Memory
2. Enhancing Focus and Overcoming Distractions
3. Building Lasting Knowledge and Skills
4. Boosting Motivation and Self-Discipline
5. Excelling in Academic Settings

The Science of Memory

The first major concept in "Learn Like a Pro" focuses on understanding how memory works, specifically the interplay between working memory and long-term memory. The authors explain that working memory, which temporarily holds and processes information, plays a crucial role in learning but is limited in capacity. To truly learn something, information must move from working memory into long-term memory, where it can be stored and retrieved when needed.

Oakley and Schewe emphasize that learning happens when information is successfully encoded into long-term memory. They explain that this process involves the creation of neural pathways, which become stronger the more they are used. The authors draw on the Atkinson-Shiffrin Model of memory, which describes how information is processed, stored, and retrieved. By understanding this model, readers can adopt strategies that enhance their ability to move information from working memory into long-term memory.

One of the key strategies for enhancing memory is the use of active recall, which involves deliberately trying to remember information rather than passively reviewing it. This technique forces your brain to strengthen the neural connections that are essential for long-term retention. Oakley and Schewe also discuss the importance of spaced repetition, a method of reviewing information at increasing intervals to ensure it moves from short-term to long-term memory. These techniques are grounded in well-established cognitive science principles, making them effective tools for anyone looking to improve their memory and learning capacity.