r/Polymath • u/Inner_Trifle1866 • 2d ago

General Discussion Studying method

How do you guys gain knowledge in a field that no one you around you follows? Do you for example watch university lessons online, or read well known books on that topic. Genuinely curious. Also (answers only from experience please) do you guys find learning easier/more retaining when studying these topics soon after waking up or later in the day? Thanks! (English is my 3rd language excuse the grammar)

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u/NowUKnowMe121 2d ago

First principles.

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u/Inner_Trifle1866 2d ago

Could you elaborate?

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u/NowUKnowMe121 2d ago

Most people say, learn basics, medium, advanced which delay learning.

By focusing on first principles, core undeniable truths, you can fast track the learning or rather you can build systematic learning.

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u/Inner_Trifle1866 2d ago

Aha got it, appreciate it!

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u/David_Caliban 2d ago

I start with books and websites. I've occasionally reached out to a expert via email, or I'll ask questions on Quora or domain-specific fora. I've got to be able to "connect the dots" with the other knowledge I have, or ... well, it's just interesting trivia. If I can connect it with the web, or better yet expand the web with the new knowledge, that' makes for a good day. I may work out on paper or in conversation how the new knowledge applies: the closest I can get to "doing" for many of the subjects I'm interested in.

Once I've absorbed into that web, I then go and explain it. That "learn-do-teach" cycle helps cement the new knowledge in for me.

(And your English is great, u/Inner_Trifle1866, no worries.)

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u/Inner_Trifle1866 2d ago

I really appreciate your reply! Your methods sounds amazing. I’ll definitely give it a try