5 Ways to Train Yourself to Be a Genius (3 Short-term, 2 Long-term)

The video introduces the concept that anyone can train their brain to think like a genius by leveraging the power of neuroplasticity. Dr. Justin Sung, a medical doctor and learning coach, explains that contrary to past beliefs, the brain is highly adaptable and can be retrained to learn more efficiently. He emphasizes that while it's possible to retrain the brain, the process can be challenging and may take months or years. The video promises to cover key principles to enhance memory and deep understanding, which are often associated with genius-level learning.

This paragraph delves into the specifics of how to improve memory and understanding through deep processing and higher order learning. It explains that connecting new information to a broader context and other pieces of knowledge allows for a more nuanced understanding. The speaker uses the example of a pen stylus to illustrate the concept of viewing items from multiple angles. The paragraph also introduces the idea of higher order learning, which involves creating organization and meaning from the information consumed, thereby improving memory. Tools like revised Bloom's taxonomy and SOLO taxonomy are mentioned as frameworks to facilitate this type of learning.

The script discusses the different levels of learning, from basic memorization to complex application and synthesis of knowledge. It emphasizes that higher levels of learning involve creating relationships between concepts and organizing them into a structured network. The paragraph outlines a progression from lower order learning, which is more passive and involves rote memorization, to higher order learning, which requires active engagement with the material and the ability to prioritize and judge the importance of different relationships and concepts.

The speaker provides practical advice on how to begin retraining the brain for higher order learning. He suggests starting by identifying one's current level of learning and then gradually incorporating strategies from the next level up. The importance of pre-studying is highlighted as a means to create a basic organizational structure for incoming information. The paragraph also introduces the concept of delayed note-taking, which encourages the brain to process and organize information before writing it down, thereby enhancing learning and memory encoding.

The paragraph outlines both short-term and long-term strategies for improving learning and memory. Short-term strategies include identifying one's current learning level, pre-studying to create a basic framework for new information, and delaying note-taking to enhance cognitive processing. Long-term strategies focus on increasing cognitive load tolerance, which involves becoming more comfortable with the discomfort of active learning and confusion as signs of brain engagement. The speaker also emphasizes the importance of critical reflection on one's learning techniques to understand what works and what doesn't, advocating for a self-reflective approach to studying.

In the concluding paragraph, Dr. Sung encourages students to be critically reflective of their study techniques and to understand the theory behind why certain methods work. He stresses the importance of not just executing a study plan but also evaluating its effectiveness. The speaker aims to empower students to become 'mechanics of their own brain,' capable of diagnosing and solving their own study-related problems. He ends with a call to action for students to apply these strategies to improve their memory, deepen their understanding, and ultimately train themselves to be smarter.