Daniel Wong, Author at Daniel Wong

How to Write a Paper Fast (Without Compromising on Quality)

Updated on September 29, 2023 By Daniel Wong 1 Comment

Do you put off writing papers, dreading the hours it will take to get them done?

Many students find that writing is a tedious process.

It’s not surprising to see why.

You have to brainstorm ideas and research information thoroughly. Then you have to put together your draft, including citations. Finally, you have to edit your essay to make sure it all makes sense and is grammatically correct.

It’s a lot of work, so I’m going to show you some ways to speed things up.

The trick to writing fast isn’t to cut back on research or to speed through the editing process. If you do that, it will result in a poor-quality paper.

Instead, by applying the strategies in this article, you’ll be able to research information faster and write a quality paper in less time.

Here are 11 tips on how to write a paper or essay faster and still get a good grade!

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1. Make sure you understand the assignment

The biggest mistake a student can make is to write an essay that doesn’t meet the requirements of the assignment.

No matter how well-written your paper is, you’ll receive a bad grade if your work is off-topic.

Here are some questions to ask yourself to ensure your paper is on the right track:

Do I understand the topic well?
What are the specific questions I need to answer?
Do I know where to find the relevant information?
What’s the required format for the final draft?
How long should the paper be?

As you write each section of your paper, always refer back to the requirements to ensure you stay on track.

And if you don’t understand the requirements well, don’t hesitate to clarify your doubts with your teacher.

2. Plan your schedule

Researchers have studied the benefits of various time management techniques. The findings show that using such techniques can help to improve academic performance and reduce stress.

So how can you improve your time management?

Start by noting down all your assignments, and prioritize them based on urgency. It’s best to start with tasks that take more time and have a closer deadline.

If the project is complex, break it down into smaller tasks. Then, estimate the time needed and designate a slot for each subtask in your schedule.

Take your other commitments into account so they don’t conflict with your work sessions or affect your school-life balance.

Having a set schedule reduces the time spent thinking about when you should get to work and what tasks you should work on. It also helps to minimize stress and ensures you have enough time to produce quality work.

3. Explain the topic to your friends or family members

Before doing research for the paper, try to gain a basic understanding of the topic.

Go through the materials and guidelines that your teacher has provided. You can also make brief notes on the concepts and information you learn.

Then, try to explain the topic to a friend or family member.

You can use the Feynman technique when doing so. This study strategy involves simplifying complex concepts.

You’d then test your understanding by explaining it to someone else like you would to a child.

It’s crucial to take note of any concepts or ideas you couldn’t explain well or questions you weren’t able to answer. This can help to highlight any gaps in your understanding, which you’ll fill in later during the research stage.

4. Conduct preliminary research (but don’t go overboard)

Now that you have a basic understanding of the topic, you can start delving deeper.

Your preexisting knowledge should help you gauge how accurate an article or source is. You can also use the knowledge gaps you identified earlier to direct your research.

While doing the research, you can also make short notes or mini mindmaps to connect new information with what you already know.

Many students spend too much time in the research phase. Don’t worry about finding out everything about your topic at the start. You can always do more research when you actually start writing the paper later on.

5. Find credible sources to cite

Make full use of your research sessions by noting credible sources to include in your paper.

Start a document to keep track of your sources, so you can refer back to them and cite them correctly.

Many papers require you to cite credible sites, research studies, or published journal articles. If so, check the guidelines for the number and type of sources you should include.

6. Create an outline

Creating an outline allows you to organize your ideas, research, and insights into a structured roadmap to follow.

Here are some pointers to keep in mind:

Organize your ideas and research findings into separate themes or categories.
Arrange these content clusters logically.
- Are there any strong points that should appear first?
- Do certain ideas need to be explained first to set up the discussion of other ideas?
Keep your notes brief to save time.
Note which sources and citations can be used under each point.
Estimate the word count for each section.
Regularly refer to the given questions and guidelines to stay on track.

7. Use a good template

To save time, you can use a template as a backbone for the paper.

Start by doing a quick search online. You’ll find many free essay and paper outline templates for different writing styles.

Choose a suitable template that’s closest to the required format, word count, and writing style.

8. Write freely and edit later

When you write your draft, focus on progress, not perfection.

Create your draft based on the outline you drew up earlier. At this point, don’t worry about re-reading your sentences to catch grammatical mistakes and typos – you can do this later during the editing phase.

Edit your draft as a whole after you’ve completed it.

9. Write your paper bit by bit

Try to spread out your research, outlining, and writing tasks over a period of time – at least a few days to a couple of weeks or longer. You shouldn’t attempt to complete all the stages in one go.

If you’re in a time crunch, you can take ten-minute breaks between your writing sessions.

Research has shown that even short breaks can help to combat tiredness, boost your energy levels, and improve overall performance.

10. Avoid procrastination

Your teacher will often give you a week or two or longer to write a paper. What often happens is that students put off getting started until the last minute. This leads to stress and affects the quality of the paper.

Instead, spread out your writing sessions. Break the project down into smaller sections. Then, dedicate a 20- to 40-minute slot each day to work on the paper.

By making this part of your daily routine, you’ll gradually complete the paper without becoming overwhelmed by the task.

11. Use writing tools and technologies

There are many digital programs and tools available that will make the writing process more efficient.

You might find the following tools useful:

Grammarly: Run your paper through this program to catch typos and grammatical errors. It also comes with a built-in plagiarism checker.
Hemingway: This writing tool guides you to write clear and concise sentences.
BibMe: This is a citation and bibliography maker that will help you create citations based on the sources you provide. It can also organize and store all your citations.
ChatGPT: It’s best to first check if your teacher permits its use. And, of course, you should never use it to write your paper! But you can use ChatGPT to brainstorm ideas and provide feedback on your paper.

Conclusion

Writing papers doesn’t have to be exhausting or tedious.

Set up a workflow that enables you to carry out all your tasks in an organized and efficient way. It’s also a good idea to do your work in a quiet and conducive environment so you don’t get distracted.

As with many things in life, practice makes perfect. As you write more papers using this structured process, you’ll become a faster and better writer!

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50 Family Conversation Starters to Get Your Teens to Open Up

Updated on February 5, 2024 By Daniel Wong 2 Comments

Do you wish your family dinners were filled with more chatter and meaningful conversations?

With teenagers in the house, it can be tough to make this happen.

As a parent, perhaps you’ve tried getting your teens to talk – asking questions and making conversation – but they respond with a shrug of the shoulders or a one-word answer.

As discouraging as this might be, it’s important to be patient and develop an open line of communication with your teens.

If you do this, it will be much easier to iron out conflicts and talk about deeper issues when they arise.

The good news is that communication is a skill every parent can develop.

In this article, I’ll share with you 50 conversation starters for family gatherings and dinners you can use to bond with your teens.

(But first, make sure to download your free e-book below.)

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How to talk to your teen

Adolescence can be a challenging time. As a parent, you’re in a good position to provide a safe and open space for your teenagers to communicate their fears, struggles, and dreams.

But your teens must feel comfortable talking to you. The best way to do this is to look for ways to connect with them.

Here are some tips to help you engage with your teens in day-to-day life:

Listen actively and be fully present. Put your devices away. Show that you’re attentive by paraphrasing what they said and maintaining good eye contact. Research has proven that active listening can help teens open up.
Don’t go overboard with your questions. Teenagers don’t want to be interrogated. Don’t make them feel like they have to spill every last detail about their life, friends, or school – unless they want to.
Ask open-ended questions. Ask questions that begin with “why,” “how,” “what,” “what if,” or “describe,” instead of asking yes or no questions.
Talk about their interests. Ask your teens about their hobbies and interests, then follow up with more questions related to those subjects.

50 family dinner topic starters

Let’s explore different family conversation starters that can help you connect with your teens.

The conversation starters are broken up into categories to help you get your family talking about the family values and topics you want to encourage most.

Friendship

Research shows that friendships are critical for teens’ overall development.

This makes friendship a good topic for meaningful conversations.

Here are some questions you could ask your teens:

“Who is your oldest friend, and how did you meet?” This is a great opportunity for you and your teens to bond over fond memories. You can also explore how the friendship withstood the test of time.

“What qualities do you value most in a friend?” Help your teens set healthy expectations and standards when making and sustaining friendships.

“Share one of the best memories you’ve had with a friend.” If possible, you can even ask your teens if they’re up for recreating the memory with you.

“Is it better to have a few close friends or a large circle of acquaintances?” This question helps your teens gain a deeper understanding of their priorities in relationships.

“What qualities do you think are essential for a lasting and meaningful friendship?” Prompt your teenagers to weigh which values are important to look for and practice. Doing so helps them develop healthy boundaries when making friends.

“Share a story about a time when a friend provided support or made a significant impact in your life.” Asking your teens this question helps you better understand what form of support they prefer when they encounter challenging situations (e.g., a hug, words of encouragement).

“Friendships can change over time. How have your friendships evolved, and how can you ensure that you maintain these friendships?” Discuss the dynamics of healthy friendships. This may include conflict resolution, effective communication, mutual support, etc.

“Sometimes, conflicts arise between friends. How do you usually navigate those types of situations?” Conflict resolution is an important life skill to develop. You and your teens can take this opportunity to discuss how different conflicts can be resolved.

Importance of family

Cultivating a culture of trust and security in the family is vital if you want your teenagers to share their thoughts and concerns with you.

These questions will help you and your teens reflect on the importance of family:

“What are some values our family holds dear?” Take this opportunity to get you and your teens on the same page in terms of family values.

“Share a favorite family tradition and explain why it’s important to you.” Examples might include a trip to the beach every summer or a small celebration at the end of every school year.

“How do you think our family could better support and care for one another?” A follow-up question could be, “What can I do to help you feel better if you’re having a bad day?”

“What is the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from a family member?” You might then discuss how you and your teens can apply this lesson.

“How has our family’s support and love influenced your personal growth and achievements?” Celebrate your teens’ achievements and let them know that you love them unconditionally.

“Discuss a family value that you believe sets us apart and makes our family special.” You might also ask your teenagers how they’ve been practicing this value and how that has impacted them and those around them.

“Discuss a time when our family faced a challenge together and how that experience strengthened our bond as a family unit.” Alternatively, you can ask what you (or your teens) could have done better to support the family in that situation.

Family traditions

Family traditions are activities and practices that symbolize your beliefs and values as a family.

These may be related to traveling, specific celebrations or events you organize, or volunteer work you do together. Or it may be a new tradition that you decide to create together.

Here are some questions about family traditions to ask your teens:

“What is your favorite family holiday tradition, and why?” Something seemingly trivial, like helping to prepare a special dish or putting up decorations, might mean the world to your teens.

“Share a memorable experience from a family vacation or trip.” You might decide to add activities or places your teenagers enjoyed to your next family trip.

“Are there any unique cultural or religious traditions in our family? Why do you think they’re significant?” This question allows you and your teens to bond over shared traditions and beliefs.

“What new traditions would you like to start as a family?” These traditions may or may not be related to religion or culture.

“Talk about a tradition or custom from a different culture that you find interesting.” Encourage discussion around the beauty and uniqueness of other traditions and cultures. This can instill a sense of respect and admiration for people of different backgrounds.

“Share a family recipe that has been passed down through generations and talk about its significance.” You can even suggest making the dish together for the next family gathering.

“Discuss a family tradition you want to preserve and pass on to future generations.” This is an excellent opportunity to nurture a sense of love and respect for generational traditions that are significant to your family.

“What are some of your favorite traditions, and why do you enjoy them?” Foster an appreciation and admiration for your family’s traditions by having your teens talk about the ones they like most.

“Traditions can change or evolve over time. Are there any old ones you’d like to modify?” Encourage your teenagers to think critically and creatively about the traditions they practice. Ask them to suggest ways to modify these traditions to best reflect your family’s values and beliefs.

Personal growth

Adolescence is marked by rapid change, growth, and development.

During this time, teenagers are figuring out who they are and are learning to become comfortable with their identities.

Becoming a young adult can be challenging and confusing, so being supportive of your teens is important.

These questions can help you understand how your teens’ values, identity, and abilities have evolved over time:

“How has being part of our family contributed to your personal growth?” This question helps your teens pinpoint the family values and principles that have played a role in their development.

“Discuss a challenge you faced and how it helped you to become stronger.” Allow your teenagers to reflect on a challenge they overcame. It never hurts to remind them of their resilience.

“Talk about a time when you stepped out of your comfort zone and the lessons you learned.” Take this opportunity to celebrate your teens’ bravery.

“Discuss a hobby or activity that has helped you grow personally and brought you joy.” Look for ways to support your teens as they pursue their interests and hobbies.

“Personal growth is a lifelong journey. Is there an aspect you’d like to work on or improve? How can I support you?” Help your teens to understand that many life skills and values can be nurtured through persistence. You can also let them know that you’re invested in their personal growth.

“Let’s discuss our strengths and areas where we can grow.” Reinforce your teens’ confidence by encouraging them to identify their strengths. Then, encourage your teenagers to list practical ways to grow and improve in these areas.

“Learning from our mistakes is an important part of personal growth. Is there a mistake you’ve made recently that you’d like to reflect on?” Encourage your teens to see mistakes as opportunities to learn and improve.

Dreams and aspirations

During adolescence, we learn that our dreams can become a reality.

It’s important to help your teens figure out what’s important to them.

Your teens will likely be sifting through many ideas, passions, and goals. So they need to know that they can talk to you and that you’ll be a positive and supportive sounding board.

These questions can encourage your teenagers to think about their ambitions and how they plan to achieve them:

“What are your biggest dreams for yourself and for our family?” Knowing your teens’ ambitions and dreams opens up opportunities for you to support and empower them along the way.

“Share a personal goal and discuss the steps you’re taking to achieve it.” Encourage your teens to start setting goals and to break down big dreams into smaller actionable steps.

“How can we support each other in pursuing our dreams and aspirations?” Everyone seeks different forms of support. Something as simple as showing up for your teen’s basketball game could be a huge motivator for your teen.

“Discuss a time when someone in our family achieved something significant and how it impacted all of us.” This can help to build a family culture that celebrates the successes of others.

“Share a dream or aspiration you have for yourself that you haven’t yet pursued, and discuss what might be holding you back.” Acknowledge your teenagers’ fears and struggles, and remind them that you’ll always have their back if they need support or advice.

“Sometimes it can be challenging to pursue our dreams. Is there any guidance you need to reach your goals?” Your teens’ needs are unique to their goals. Certain goals may require mentorship or financial support. Others may simply call for encouragement.

“Dreams can evolve over time. Have your aspirations changed recently? If so, what sparked that change?” Enable your teens to understand that changes in goals or ambitions are a part of life. This encourages them to be open to new opportunities.

Death in the family

Grief is a challenging but necessary topic to tackle with your teens.

It’s vital to be there for your teens to help them navigate the feelings that loss and death can cause.

Find a good time to discuss the following questions with your teenagers:

“What are some ways we can honor and remember loved ones who have passed away?” Do your best to put your teens’ responses into action. Honoring these loved ones could be a significant step in the mourning process for your teens.

“How can we support each other during times of grief and loss?” The grieving journey looks different for everyone, even more so for teens who are learning to process difficult emotions.

“Share a story about a family member who has passed away and the impact he or she had on your life.” A conversation around this topic can invoke a sense of gratitude for the life and legacy a late family member has left behind.

“I’ve been thinking about our loved one who has passed away. How do you feel about it? Is there anything you’d like to share?” Asking your teens this question validates their emotions and normalizes the grieving process. This enables them to understand that it’s okay to be sad.

“How can we celebrate and cherish the memories of those we’ve lost?” Work with your teens to build healthy coping mechanisms when dealing with loss as a family.

“How has losing a family member affected our family’s dynamic and relationships?” Validate the fact that the loss of a loved one can have a significant impact on every member of the family.

Drugs and substance abuse

Statistics show that alcohol and drug abuse are major problems.

So it’s vital to create a safe space for your teens to share their opinions about substance abuse and other risky behaviors.

You can ask them the following questions:

“What are your thoughts on drug use and its impact on individuals and families?” Avoid lecturing your teens. Instead, prompt them to think critically about the impact of substance abuse.

“What can we do to support those struggling with addiction?” Encourage your teens to think about ways they can support their peers who are trying to overcome an addiction.

“How do you think the media and popular culture influence our attitudes toward drugs and alcohol?” Cultivate an awareness that songs, movies, and social media can alter your teens’ perception of drugs and alcohol.

“What do you know about the dangers of drugs, and how can we support each other in making responsible choices?” Give your teens an opportunity to share what they’ve learned or heard about the consequences of substance abuse.

“Do you feel comfortable talking to us about the concerns or questions you may have regarding drugs and alcohol?” Reiterate that your teens can always share their concerns with you without fear of judgment.

“What are some strategies we can use as a family to educate ourselves about the risks of substance abuse?” Create a collaborative environment for you and your teens to learn about the dangers of substance abuse as a family.

Conclusion

Parenting teens is challenging.

Ultimately, how well you and your teens communicate will influence the relationship you have with them.

So always approach your teens with a genuine interest in their opinions and thoughts.

Hopefully, these conversation starters will be a catalyst for more meaningful interactions with your teens!

(If your teens sometimes lack motivation, don’t forget to download your free e-book below.)

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16 Keys to Motivating Your Teenager.

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8 Proven Hacks to Get Your Homework Done Fast

Updated on March 19, 2024 By Daniel Wong 1 Comment

There are many good reasons to spend time on homework, beyond getting good grades.

It reinforces your learning at school and enhances your knowledge. There’s no better way to master a concept than to practice solving problems related to it.

But as a student, there’s more to life than homework.

Figuring out how to balance school and work, leisure, social activities, volunteering, etc. is vital.

The good thing is that there are proven ways to be more efficient and finish your homework fast – without compromising on the quality of your work.

In this article, we’ll talk about 8 strategies you can use to maximize your efforts and get everything done in less time!

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When is the best time to do your homework?

Getting your homework done as soon as you can is always a good idea.

After your classes, the information you’ve learned is still fresh in your memory. So applying these concepts in your assignments will be easier.

It also helps to have a routine – for instance, getting started on your homework one hour before dinner every weekday.

Find out when the best time to study is for you and build your schedule around it.

Let’s say that you always feel motivated to complete your schoolwork as soon as possible. If so, you can leverage this motivation by diving into your assignments right when you get home.

But if you need a short break, you can set a timer for 30 minutes to an hour once you get home to remind you to get started after you’ve had some rest.

What to do when you have a lot of homework

Homework can pile up fast when you have many classes and activities.

When this happens, you might feel stressed or overwhelmed.

When your to-do list gets longer and longer, the best thing you can do is to stay calm and focused.

Set yourself up to enter a flow state where you focus solely on the task at hand.

Write down all your pending assignments, and take on just one task at a time. Set a goal and timeframe for each task, and minimize distractions in your study environment.

If the assignment is complex, break it down into smaller and less intimidating steps. Checking these smaller goals off your list as you go can keep you motivated and focused.

How to finish homework fast

It’s important to work hard, but it’s also important to work smart.

Here are some of the best time-saving productivity hacks for students to make it easier and faster to complete their homework.

1. Consistently keep track of your homework

One of the biggest mistakes I see students make is thinking they’ll remember all of their assigned tasks.

I don’t doubt that you have a good memory. But keeping track of your homework by writing things down is much more efficient.

Keep a physical or digital list of all your pending assignments and their deadlines. You can consistently track your tasks using this list. A notebook or note-taking app would work well.

When it’s time to work on your assignments, pull out this list and start with the most urgent task that has the closest deadline. Continue working your way through the list based on how urgent each task is.

The list clarifies which assignments require immediate attention and which can be done another day.

This allows you to dive right into doing your homework and saves precious time.

Making lists can lighten your brain’s workload. It also helps to reduce anxiety and boost productivity.

2. Spruce things up with a study buddy

Most of us would agree that homework can sometimes be repetitive and boring.

One of the best ways to boost motivation and get the ball rolling is by doing homework with a study buddy.

Having someone with you can help you to stay engaged and on task.

You’ll keep each other accountable and ensure that all assignments are completed on time.

During these study sessions, you can work together to solve challenging questions and understand difficult concepts.

3. Remove distractions (especially electronic ones)

Procrastination and distractions can kill your productivity.

Here are some study strategies to help you combat procrastination and make the most of your time:

Find an ideal study environment at your school or at the library, or create an optimal work environment at home.
Use earplugs or noise-canceling earphones to reduce external distractions.
Keep only the materials and stationery you need at your desk. You can also have a water bottle and a few snacks prepared, so you won’t have to get up midway through your study session.
Turn off your phone. In fact, it’s best to keep all your devices in a different room or at least out of arm’s reach.
If a thought or idea pops into your head, instead of acting on it, write it down. Maybe it’s an errand you need to run or a friend you promised to call. Acknowledge these thoughts by writing them down, then take care of them after you’ve completed your homework.

4. Create a reward system

A reward system nurtures motivation – at least in the short term – by giving you something to look forward to.

It trains your brain to understand that hard work results in an enjoyable outcome. Plus, it builds a positive association with homework.

So identify some reasonable rewards that you’d enjoy. List out items or activities you value that are consistent with your goals.

What works best is building multiple practical rewards into your homework routine.

For example, you could reward yourself by listening to your favorite music after every 45-minute work session. Or you could have a quick, healthy snack after completing each set of practice questions.

Of course, you can occasionally use big rewards too. After finishing a complex assignment or a long practice exam, treat yourself to something special, like watching a show with your friends.

5. Gamify your study session

Ever spent hours playing a game and felt that time just flew by?

Why are video games so much fun?

Games are designed to keep you hooked on leveling up your character, exploring new worlds, and unlocking rewards.

But what if I told you that you could apply specific video game principles to your homework sessions to keep you motivated?

Research suggests that gamification could address motivational problems related to work and learning. So applying this concept will make homework and studying more fun!

One of the simplest ways to do this is by downloading gamification apps.

Some examples include Forest, Do It Now, and Habitica. These apps have features that allow you to unlock new game elements, rank up, or collect points.

This enables you to track your progress and stay on task.

6. Create a dedicated workspace

Having a suitable place at home to study will help you complete your homework faster.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, so it’s important to personalize your workspace based on what enables you to focus best.

For example, one person might enjoy having a bunch of stationery, Post-it notes, and colorful highlighters on his or her desk. But these might only serve as distractions for others.

Some people might work best with white noise or a little background chatter. On the other hand, some people might only be able to concentrate in a quiet environment.

So feel free to experiment to find what works best for you. Here are some general tips to get you started:

Ensure that there’s adequate lighting and keep your space at a comfortable temperature.
Reduce stress with the right scents, e.g. use a pleasant-smelling room fragrance or diffuse an essential oil.
Personalize your work desk with items like a memo board, calendar, clock, or artwork.
Keep your desk well-organized and clean.
Invest in a good office chair.

7. Make a study plan

A study plan ensures that you have enough time to complete all your assignments before they’re due.

It also takes the guesswork out of the equation when allocating time.

Here’s how you can create an effective study plan:

Cater to your specific learning preferences. Are you more productive in the morning or evening? How long can you focus without a break? Whenever possible, plan your schedule based on the times of the day that suit you best.
Create deadlines that fall a few days before the actual ones. This gives you a cushion in case your assignments or projects take longer than expected.
Space out your homework into blocks with rest intervals. For example, you could divide your work into 40-minute work blocks with 10-minute breaks in between.
Limit social media usage during breaks. Scrolling through social media can take a toll on your mental capacity and eat up more time than you intended. Instead, engage in less mentally-taxing activities, like taking a stroll, performing simple stretches, or having a light snack.

8. Break up your homework into manageable chunks

It’s natural to sometimes feel overwhelmed by your assignments – especially the long, complicated, and tedious ones.

Getting started on a large or complex task might seem like you’re biting off more than you can chew. In turn, this can lead to procrastination.

One tried-and-tested study tip for handling challenging tasks is to break them down into smaller chunks.

List out each smaller task and work through the project bit by bit. You can even use programs and apps like Trello, Asana, or Notion to create daily to-do lists and keep tabs on your progress.

When you do this, the tasks become much more doable, so you’ll be able to submit your assignments on time.

How to finish homework at the last minute

Leaving homework to the last minute can lead to stress, and will affect your grades in the long run.

But if you find yourself in this situation, the most important thing to do is to prioritize well.

Which assignments are due the soonest? And which tasks account for what percentage of your overall grade?

Write down all your pending tasks. Then, prioritize those with the closest deadlines.

You should give your best effort for every assignment, project, quiz, etc. But if you’re running out of time, it may not be possible to give your 100% effort. So do just what’s required and move on.

But make a firm commitment that you won’t do your homework at the last minute again in the future!

Conclusion

While homework is part and parcel of student life (and an important one at that), it shouldn’t have to be something you dread.

Try these 8 proven strategies to help you do your homework faster while making it more enjoyable!

(And if you haven’t already done so, make sure to download your free quick action guide below.)

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Understanding Teenage Tantrums: Causes, Management, and Prevention

Updated on September 30, 2025 By Daniel Wong 4 Comments

Do you feel like you’re treading on thin ice when you’re around your teen?

Maybe a quick reminder to do his chores is met with a fit.

Or a request to put her phone away at the dining table turns into a big argument.

Teenage tantrums happen when your teen displays an emotional outburst of frustration and anger. As a parent, it can be difficult to handle.

It can leave you feeling exhausted, and make you wonder why your teenager hates you.

It’s common to think that screaming teenagers are either spoiled or disrespectful. Some parents might write it off as teenage attitude. But this is a simplistic view.

Tantrums happen for various reasons, and getting angry at your teen will only make the situation worse.

So, what can you do as a parent to prevent your teenager from shutting you out?

Understanding the issue at a deeper level is a good first step.

In this article, I’ll explain the most common causes of teenage tantrums and the best ways to manage them.

(Make sure to download your free quick action guide below.)

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Understanding the causes of teenage tantrums

The real reasons behind your teenager’s outbursts aren’t always obvious.

It’s similar to having a fever caused by an underlying ailment. Treating the cause is a longer-lasting solution than just treating the fever.

Similarly, parents need to look deeper when dealing with teenage outbursts.

Here are some possible causes of your teen’s temper tantrums:

Hormonal changes: As teens go through puberty, hormonal shifts can influence their mood. This makes them more susceptible to anxiety, stress, sadness, and frustration.
Social and emotional development: The part of the brain involved in self-regulation doesn’t fully mature until early adulthood. So teenagers aren’t able to process negative emotions as well as adults.
Lack of communication skills: Your teens might not know how to effectively communicate their needs and wants. For instance, asking for more autonomy, freedom, or a bigger part in decision-making are sensitive issues that can be tricky to navigate. As such, tantrums are sometimes an indirect result of a lack of communication skills.
Environmental factors: Exams, looming deadlines, conflicts with friends, the pressure to fit in, and relationship issues can be a lot to handle for teens. This can contribute to teens’ mood swings and angry outbursts.
Mental health issues: Depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other mental health issues can influence a teen’s mood and emotions. For example, teens with ADHD may feel irritated more often, as ADHD affects impulse control.

Of course, some of these causes may not directly be your teens’ fault. But this doesn’t absolve them from taking responsibility for their emotions and actions.

Signs of teenage tantrums

Temper tantrums don’t have to only involve screaming teens.

A variety of behaviors can indicate that your teens are in the midst of a tantrum, including:

Isolating themselves
Screaming, shouting, or swearing
Giving others the cold shoulder
Stomping or pacing
Moaning or whining
Acting aggressively
Throwing items
Crying

The impact of teenage tantrums on adolescents and their environment

Tantrums can impact your teenagers and those around them in various ways.

Some possible consequences that you and your teens might face include:

Your teens might struggle to form healthy relationships with others.
Your teens’ behavioral problems may affect their performance in school.
Your home may no longer feel like a safe space for you and your family.
Your emotional and mental well-being could be affected.
Your relationship with your teens may become strained.

The good news is that emotional regulation is a skill that your teens can learn.

Instilling this valuable life skill in your teens will equip them to manage negative emotions and challenges in the future.

Effective strategies for managing teenage tantrums

Small and intentional changes can make a huge difference. These tips will help you teach your teens how to respect others, communicate effectively, and regulate their emotions.

1. Recognize the triggers

After your teen has a tantrum, think about what events led up to it.

Was your teen trying to share his or her thoughts but felt unheard? Did your teen ask to go out with his or her friends or participate in an activity and you said no?

By recognizing your teen’s triggers, you can learn how to approach certain topics in the future. This will also help you to understand when your teen needs to be heard, is asking for help, or requires emotional support.

2. Respond calmly

When your teen starts to scream at you, it may feel instinctual to respond with anger. But mirroring your teen’s behavior isn’t going to help.

Respect is a two-way street, so refrain from shouting back, making threats, or talking down to your teenager.

Remind yourself to pause and take a deep breath. Modeling self-control and emotional regulation is a great way to lead by example. Your actions will speak much louder than your words ever will at that moment.

You may need to give both you and your teen some time and space before coming back together to work things out.

3. Create a safe space

Create a safe space for your teens to be heard. Be present, listen attentively, and let them speak without any interruptions.

Let them feel safe, seen, and heard, even if they aren’t acting like their best selves.

This reassures them that you’ll be there for them whenever they go through challenging situations.

4. Encourage communication

Communicate with your teens by occasionally paraphrasing what they’ve said. This lets them know that you’re listening and that you acknowledge their feelings are valid.

If your teen doesn’t seem to be calming down, remove yourself from the situation. Once your son or daughter has calmed down, you can discuss possible solutions and ways to work through the issue at hand.

5. Set limits and boundaries

When the tantrum has passed, set reasonable boundaries. Your teenagers must understand that bad behavior isn’t a tool to get what they want.

Teach your teens that being angry or frustrated is okay. But shouting, throwing things, swearing, or disrespecting others is never okay.

Let them know what the consequences of these actions will be, and follow through on the rules you’ve set.

Work with your teenagers to create these rules. Including your teenagers in the process will help them to see that you value their input. This can help to reduce the occurrence of future tantrums.

6. Seek professional help

Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s one of the bravest things a parent can do.

Therapists, psychologists, and coaches are well-equipped to help your teen. (I work with teens 1-to-1 through this coaching program, so I’d be happy to help.)

And if you’re concerned that a mental health condition is affecting your teen’s behavior, now is the time to engage a professional before the situation gets worse.

Conclusion

Your teens are learning how to handle their big emotions. In a fast-paced, high-stress world, the best thing you can offer them is empathy, patience, and guidance.

Managing teenage tantrums is challenging, so don’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t get it right the first time around.

Keep persisting and you’ll find approaches that work for you and your teen. And remember to always be kind to and patient with yourself!

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Spaced Repetition System: The Best Way for Students to Learn

Updated on October 2, 2023 By Daniel Wong 3 Comments

You’re taking an exam, and your mind goes blank.

No matter how hard you try, you can’t remember much of what you learned the previous night.

Does this happen to you sometimes?

As common as this practice is, cramming a few months’ worth of material into a night or two of learning isn’t the best study habit.

And it isn’t a good way to perform optimal work.

Think of it this way…

Let’s say that you’re going to participate in a marathon or sports competition. You would begin training at least a few weeks or months in advance.

While your brain isn’t a muscle, the same concept still applies. The best way to get good grades is to study over a longer period of time.

And that’s what the spaced repetition technique enables you to do.

What is spaced repetition?

Spaced repetition is a powerful memory technique and system that allows you to remember information better. This system involves reviewing information at increasing intervals. It also helps you to learn through active recall.

By using this study strategy, you’ll retain the information you learn for longer.

Read on and learn how to apply the spaced repetition technique to supercharge your learning!

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The science behind spaced repetition systems

Research studies have proven the efficacy of the spaced repetition technique. Scientists have found that spacing out your learning over time leads to superior long-term retention. It also enhances memory and problem-solving.

This is due to a phenomenon called the forgetting curve. The forgetting curve represents the process by which we forget information – and this happens quickly!

In fact, students will forget about 75% of what they learned, a day or two after reading a set of notes or attending class. Most of this forgetting happens within the first hour, and you’ll forget even more as time goes on.

But even though the forgetting curve is a natural process, you can disrupt it.

The solution is to learn the topic multiple times over a longer period. The spaced repetition technique enables you to do this.

Spaced repetition learning boils down to these three main aspects:

Review the material multiple times over an extended period. These reviews are done when your memory of the topic becomes hazy – not when you’ve forgotten everything about the topic. Each time you review the material, your brain will retain that information for longer. This enables you to overcome the forgetting curve.

Practice active recall. Active recall is the process of retrieving information stored in your brain. During active recall, you’ll recall what you’ve already studied by testing yourself after each review session. This helps you remember the information better. The science shows that students who use the active recall study strategy are more likely to remember the information they learn.

Progressively increase the interval between each review/active recall session. This gives your brain more time to absorb and consolidate the information learned. Additionally, this allows you to partially forget the information learned. As a result, the active recall process is more demanding, so you’ll reinforce your memory.

Types of spaced repetition systems

There are various ways for you to implement spaced repetition learning to help you study more productively.

Let’s explore the different types of spaced repetition systems that you can use to boost your learning.

Paper-based systems

If you’re a pen-and-paper learner, these ideas may help to get you started:

Flashcards: You can create flashcards by writing down a question on one side of the paper and the answer on the flip side. After each review session, you’ll test yourself using these flashcards and check your answer with what’s written on the back of each card.

Leitner boxes: This method involves sorting your flashcards based on how well you’re able to answer the questions on the front of the flashcards. If you answer the question correctly, the flashcard is sent from the first group to the second group. But if you can’t answer it, the card stays in the first group. Each group of cards is reviewed at different time intervals. The better you can answer the questions, the longer the interval between each review. (For a more in-depth explanation, check out this page.)

Post-review mind mapping: Researchers have found that mind mapping improves memory and learning. After a review session, take out a piece of paper and draw a diagram showing the relationship between different aspects of the topic. Do this with your books closed, of course.

Digital systems

Many apps and programs can help you study more effectively. Some are specifically designed to boost your learning using the spaced repetition technique.

For instance, Anki is an open-source flashcard app that allows you to build your own decks of digital flashcards. The app utilizes its spaced repetition algorithm to test you using the cards you’ve created.

Quizlet runs on the same concept, and you can share your deck of cards online or with friends.

Another example is the SuperMemo app, which is the first of its kind to use spaced repetition in language learning.

Memrise is yet another language-learning app that harnesses the power of spaced repetition.

Choosing the right system for you

Each system has its own set of pros and cons.

Paper-based flashcards are simple to create since you won’t have to learn to use a new program or app.

But digital systems often use advanced algorithms to optimize the order and interval at which the flashcards are displayed.

Some of these systems, like Anki, are also free to use. Plus, you won’t have to worry about losing your digital flashcards.

Finding the right system for you may take a little experimentation. But it usually comes down to personal preference.

Feel free to switch between different systems to keep your study sessions fun and engaging!

Creating effective flashcards

Creating your own flashcards will serve you better than using pre-made decks.

To make the most of your time and effort, here are some important tips to keep in mind when creating the flashcards:

Understand the concept of “atomic” information

The whole point of flashcards is to present short flashes of information that your brain can easily process and absorb.

Piling too much information into each card defeats the purpose of creating the cards. It also disguises recognizing a piece of information as knowing that piece of information.

Here’s an example…

What’s the answer to this physics question: “What are the three laws of motion?”

You might only remember the first and second laws. After flipping to the back of the card to read the answer, your brain recognizes the third law.

You then move on because you feel you got the question mostly right. But if this question were to appear in the exam, you might not be able to recall all three laws.

To avoid this mistake, you should break down the question into three parts, one for each law. This way, you’ll know exactly what information you remember and what information you don’t.

Apply this concept to all your flashcards.

Break down complex topics into smaller sub-topics. Also, keep the answer for each card short enough that you’d know for sure whether you got the question right or wrong once the card is turned over.

Draft clear and concise prompts

Like we talked about earlier, the best way to phrase a prompt on each flashcard is in the form of a question. Having a question instead of a phrase as a prompt will encourage you to think harder.

It’s also a good practice to ensure that each flashcard only has one question.

If you’re using flashcards to study for an exam, keep your questions closely related to the scope of the exam. You can look for possible questions to put on your cards based on past exams.

Write effective answers

Include a single answer to the question on the back of each flashcard. It’s best to keep the answer to three or four lines or shorter. This will prevent you from overloading the flashcard with too much information.

Split wordy or long answers into two or more flashcards with their own questions, whenever possible.

Concise flashcards help you pinpoint what you know and what you don’t.

Keep your flashcards engaging

One of the best ways to keep your flashcards engaging is to include sketches or diagrams. Here are some ideas you can try:

Stick figures to represent people
Flowcharts to describe a process
Sequence charts or timelines
Tables to compare two items
Maps to represent a place
Simple mindmaps
Venn diagrams

Of course, these pictures should be directly related to the information on the flashcard.

Don’t be afraid to add color to your cards, either. You can have different colored cards for various topics. And you can use highlighters to draw your attention to specific keywords on your cards.

How to use a spaced repetition system

Let’s explore how to apply the spaced repetition system to your learning process:

Create your flashcards

This is usually the most time-consuming step.

Determine which subjects you’d like to create flashcards for and estimate how much time you plan to devote to each topic.

Take your time to understand what you’re reading in the notes, textbook, etc. But keep in mind that you’re not expected to remember everything perfectly at this point.

Create a study schedule

Using a spaced repetition system requires consistent effort and some planning.

The next step is to plan your study schedule and the intervals between each review session (where you’ll check your knowledge using the flashcards).

The interval length will depend on various factors, such as the following:

How much knowledge you already have of the topic
The scope of the topic
How complex the topic is

Here’s a general guide to spacing out your review sessions after learning the topic for the first time:

1st review: 1 day after learning the topic
2nd review: 3 days after the 1st review
3rd review: 7 days after the 2nd review
4th review: 21 days after the 3rd review
5th review: 30 days after the 4th review

Of course, you can adjust this schedule depending on your progress. If you’re learning a topic quicker than expected, feel free to space out the reviews more.

Customize your review sessions

Focus on the areas you’re least confident in to make your review sessions more effective.

If you’re using physical flashcards, here’s a fantastic study tip you can use: After testing yourself, manually group the cards into three different categories as follows:

Group A: I couldn’t answer this at all.
Group B: I could answer this, but not confidently.
Group C: I could answer this confidently.

You should review the cards in Group A again, and you should review them one more time in the near future. The cards in Group B don’t need to be reviewed again so soon, and the cards in Group C don’t need to be reviewed until further in the future.

This means that the questions and areas to focus on will change from review session to review session.

As you master the topic, all your cards should eventually “progress” to Group C.

(This is basically the Leitner boxes system that we discussed earlier.)

You can also add more cards and questions to the pile to fortify your knowledge in areas you’re less confident about.

Deal with difficult or frustrating cards

It can be annoying when you’re dealing with cards you just can’t get right. These challenging cards should be reviewed the most often.

You can work on improving your understanding of these challenging areas by:

Reviewing supplementary materials
Doing practice questions
Learning with a friend
Drawing mindmaps
Making notes
Using online resources

Unfortunately, the spaced repetition technique isn’t magic. It will take time for you to get the results you want. So don’t let these roadblocks get you down!

Conclusion

The spaced repetition system is a proven study tool that will help you remember facts and improve your grades.

This method can even come in handy after you’ve graduated and have completed your formal education.

Plus, the spaced repetition technique is versatile, so you can use it to learn a foreign language and pick up a new skill too.

So give it a try today!

(And if you haven’t already done so, make sure to download the free quick action guide below.)

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How Do You Deal With a Compulsive Lying Teenager? (5 Strategies That Work)

Updated on January 7, 2026 By Daniel Wong 5 Comments

Are you at your wits’ end dealing with a compulsive lying teenager?

You’re not alone.

When looking at behavior related to lying in people aged 6 to 77, researchers found that adolescence was the peak of dishonesty.

In a separate study, it was found that high school students told 4.1 lies on average during a 24-hour span. That’s 150% higher than adults.

If your teenager’s lies go beyond harmless fibs and become consistent and habitual, it’s something to be concerned about.

Honesty is one of the fundamental rules for success in life. Frequent lying erodes trust, leading to strained relationships.

So why do teens feel the need to lie, and how do you know if it’s a problem?

This article explores what’s going on with compulsive lying teens and what you – as a parent – can do about it.

(And if your teen lacks motivation, download a copy of the e-book below.)

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Is your teenager a compulsive liar?

Do you feel concerned about how often you catch your teen telling lies?

As a parent, no amount of lying from your teenager ever feels acceptable. But it’s particularly concerning when your teen’s lies seem to have no purpose or explanation.

This may indicate a more serious problem – a pattern of pathological lying.

Here are some things to look out for in an adolescent who might be a pathological liar:

Lying a lot in a variety of situations
Lying without a specific purpose or reason
Consistently lying over an extended period of time
‌No other mental conditions or disorders that explain the lying

If these things are true about your teen, this could indicate compulsive lying. This means that your teen needs professional help.

Why do teenagers lie?

Research suggests that lying is most common for teens between the ages of 13-15. This is due to their intense desire for freedom at this stage of their development.

Studies have found several factors that can cause teenagers to lie:

To define their own rules: Many teens feel the need to assert their freedom and independence by making their own choices in life. In contrast, many parents try to control or restrict their teens’ behavior. As such, teens may hide the truth.
To avoid getting punished: It makes sense to have house rules for teens. Such rules help to maintain respect and create healthy boundaries. When teens break these rules, they may lie to avoid conflict and steer clear of punishments.
To cover for their friends: Teens may lie because they want to be a loyal friend, so they feel compelled to take the blame to protect a friend.
To avoid disappointing their parents: Teens may lie because they want the approval of their parents and want to avoid causing disappointment. For example, instead of admitting they fell behind in school, they may lie about their homework or grades.
To hide their emotions: Teens may struggle to express their emotions. It can feel safer to lie than to express how they really feel.

What can parents do about compulsive lying?

If your teenager lies compulsively, you probably feel frustrated or angry. But rest assured that there are strategies you can employ to improve the situation. Here are five of them:

1. Be a positive role model

Your words and actions have a profound influence on your teens. If you tell a little white lie here and there, your teens may consider this acceptable behavior and follow your lead.

If you realize that you sometimes lie, make a commitment to living a life of complete integrity.

Make it your priority to become a positive role model for your teens. Talk to them about what you’re doing to become a more honest person, and share your progress with them.

2. Create a safe space for your teenager to open up

It can be challenging for parents and teens to speak openly, particularly when discussing sensitive topics.

Communicating with teens requires intentional effort. But if your teens feel like they can speak with you without the fear of judgment, they’ll be more likely to tell the truth.

Try the following tips:

Use more “I” statements and fewer “you” statements. Tell your teens how you feel, instead of what they did wrong. “I was worried when I couldn’t reach you” is an example of an “I” statement. “You’re always avoiding my calls!” is an example of a “you” statement.
Speak clearly and simply. Communicate in easy-to-understand and specific terms. Don’t give long lectures. Instead, get to the point quickly when sharing your concerns with your teenagers.
Practice active listening. Communication is a two-way street. Encourage open dialogue by listening respectfully, especially when you disagree with your teens. Take the time to understand your teens’ perspective before responding.
Focus on the issue at hand. Bringing up several issues or problems at once will make the situation worse. Focus on the issue at hand and don’t bring up the past.

3. Set rules and boundaries together as a team

If you set all the rules and boundaries without any input from your teens, they’ll feel it’s unfair or unreasonable.

For example, maybe you set a 10 pm curfew for your teens for the weekends. But all of your teens’ friends can stay out until 11 pm. If your teens get home after 10 pm, they’ll be more likely to lie.

A lie about missing the bus is a convenient cover.

Have an open dialogue with your teenagers about the rules and boundaries they’re expected to keep to. Resolve disagreements respectfully together as a team.

This will build mutual respect and trust.

4. Stay in control of your emotions

If you find out that your teens have been lying to you, it can make you feel frustrated and disappointed.

But blowing your top won’t help the situation.

If you lose control of your emotions, it will create an emotional distance between you and your teens. They may give you the silent treatment and refuse to talk things out.

Calm down before speaking with your teens about their actions. Explain the consequences of lying and how you feel.

With a level-headed approach, your teens will be more likely to take responsibility for their mistakes. They’ll also be more likely to make better decisions in the future.

5. Avoid labeling your teenager as a liar

If you give your teenagers negative labels, it will affect how they perceive themselves. It will also affect their self-esteem. Research shows that such labeling is harmful and can cause people to feel devalued.

If you label your teen a liar, he or she may feel defined by it. Instead of trying to be more honest, he or she will continue lying, maybe even to prove you right.

Instead of labeling your teenagers, apply Strategy #2 and get to the root of why they felt the need to lie in the first place. Only then can you begin to work through the issue together.

Conclusion

Dealing with a compulsive lying teenager is tough for any parent.

Start by understanding the reasons why your teen lies. If it’s a deeply ingrained pattern that resembles pathological lying, it’s time to get professional help for your teen.

Fortunately, most teens lie for reasons that parents can understand or at least relate to.

Start applying the strategies outlined in this article and be patient. Over time, you’ll foster honest communication between you and your teen.

And if your teen lacks motivation and a sense of responsibility, check out my online course for parents of teens. It’s a proven, step-by-step system to help you get your teen on the right track – guaranteed!

(If you haven’t already done so, make sure to download your free e-book below.)

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Feynman Technique: The 4-Step System for Students to Learn Anything Well

April 17, 2023 By Daniel Wong 3 Comments

I learned very early the difference between knowing the name of something and knowing something.

– Richard Feynman, Nobel Prize-winning physicist

I’m sure you’ve heard of the term “energy.” But can you explain how energy causes a car to move or what happens to energy when ice melts?

Many students confuse knowing jargon with true understanding.

We might know the name of a concept, formula, or idea. But this doesn’t mean we know how it works or how to apply it to solve problems.

Richard Feynman developed the Feynman technique for this exact reason – to test and refine our understanding of a topic.

The Feynman technique helps you learn through the act of teaching. The technique involves explaining a topic using your own words, as if you were teaching it to a child.

This study strategy encourages you to break down complex ideas using simple language. This enables real learning to take place.

In this article, I’ll discuss the pros and cons of using the Feynman learning technique. I’ll also explain the 4-step process you can use to apply this study method.

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Advantages and disadvantages of the Feynman technique

The Feynman technique is an excellent study method that almost anyone can use to learn a new concept. It’s best suited for complex topics that involve more than memorizing a list of facts.

Some of the biggest benefits of using the Feynman technique to study are:

It helps you distill a difficult subject into ideas that are simpler to understand. This allows you to engage with the new information in a meaningful way. It also helps to make you aware of possible knowledge gaps.
It improves your critical thinking skills. You’re less likely to take everything at face value. This study technique encourages you to dig deeper. The goal is for you to learn to form your own conclusions and analyses.
It encourages you to continually review new concepts. This will allow you to retain new information longer. As a result, you’ll get good grades on your exams.
Your study sessions will be more interesting and engaging. You and your friends can take turns explaining new concepts to each other. These group study sessions are a great way to switch things up and make studying fun.

Like any learning method, the Feynman technique has its disadvantages. These include the following:

This technique might not be suitable for certain subjects and topics. The Feynman technique isn’t effective for learning already-simple concepts. It’s also not ideal for topics that rely heavily on memorization.
It’s time-consuming. Learning a new concept, understanding it at a deeper level, then explaining it in your own words can take significant time and effort.

It may take some experimentation to find out if the Feynman technique is effective for you.

Let’s explore the 4-step process you can implement to apply the Feynman technique.

Step 1: Understand the concept

Select a topic you would like to learn. Start small, and be specific with the scope of the topic.

For instance, it’s obviously impossible to learn everything about “biology” or “chemistry.”

Instead, narrow the subject down to something that might appear on your exams. For example, “structure of an animal cell” or “digestion of protein in the body.”

Once you have your topic, you can brush up on your knowledge by reading about it thoroughly. Then, jot down what you know on a blank piece of paper.

When writing out these notes, keep the following pointers in mind:

Explain the concept using simple terms you understand.
Break down larger topics into smaller sub-topics with their own headers and bullet points.
Use mind maps to represent the relationship between different concepts. Mind maps have been proven to help learners understand and remember new concepts.
Use real-life examples to simplify the concept. For instance, using the lock-and-key model to explain how enzymes interact with substrates. Studies show that using analogies improves learning and retention of difficult concepts.
Explore how you can apply the concept. For example, applying a formula to solve a physics-related question or explaining how to make soap using a chemical equation.

Step 2: Explain the concept

This step is the heart of the Feynman technique.

You’ll need to talk about the concept using terms that are simple enough for a 12-year-old to understand.

For example, you might explain how an animal cell produces energy or how the greenhouse effect contributes to global warming. All your explanations must be concise.

To prepare for this step, use the Feynman notebook method. This is where you write down your explanation of a topic in your own words.

You can approach it like you’re organizing your thoughts or explaining it to someone else. You then discuss the concept out loud to see if it makes sense or if you trip up in certain areas.

Another option is to teach someone, preferably a friend studying the same topic as you. You can take turns teaching unfamiliar concepts to each other.

This creates a feedback loop.

Questions and comments from the other person can help you spot gaps in your understanding and increase your knowledge.

As you’re teaching your friend, watch for body language cues.

Nodding suggests that you’re on the right track. In contrast, blank stares and confused looks signal a lack of clarity in your explanation.

In addition, you can ask your friend to repeat what you taught them back to you, using their own words. If they’re unable to, you might need to simplify your explanation further.

Step 3: Identify and fill knowledge gaps

After completing Step 2, you’ll probably notice some gaps in your understanding.

Maybe you couldn’t come up with a simplified definition for cellular respiration. Or maybe you couldn’t contrast energy production in animal cells versus plant cells.

Identify these areas for improvement.

Were there any sections you couldn’t explain using simple language? Did your friends raise any questions or spot any inconsistencies?

At this point, you should go back to your learning materials to fill those knowledge gaps.

Here are some other things you can do to solidify your mastery of the topic:

Create study notes for the topic. Write these notes using your own words and keep them concise. Research has shown that taking notes improves focus. It also enhances the retention and recall of information.
Take advantage of technology. Search online for additional learning materials. These resources may come in different forms, such as a video presentation or an interactive website.
Test yourself on the concepts you’ve learned. Apply what you’ve learned by doing some practice questions.

Step 4: Review and simplify

Learning isn’t a one-and-done process.

Repeat the four steps as needed to deepen your understanding. By doing this, you’ll also commit what you’re learning to your long-term memory.

Fine-tune your explanation through repeated self-testing or teaching it to your friends to get feedback. Repeat the process until you’re satisfied with your level of mastery of the topic.

Using the Feynman technique properly can be time-consuming, so be sure to set aside enough time for each topic that you want to cover.

Conclusion

One of the best ways to test and improve your knowledge of a topic is to break down complex ideas using simple terms you already know.

The Feynman technique trains you to do this, allowing you to pinpoint the gaps in your knowledge.

I encourage you to give the technique a try as soon as you can! I’m sure you’ll find it useful. 🙂

(And don’t forget to download the free quick action guide below.)

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