6 ways to improve comprehension and cognition, which are the key to widening the gap

Why do some people learn things so quickly? Why are some people able to draw analogies from the same information, while others turn a deaf ear to it? Cognitive science has found that the gap between people often lies not in their intelligence, but in their special ability of "comprehension". This ability is not innate and can be acquired through postnatal training.

1. Establish a thinking highway

1. Deliberately practice deep thinking

Set aside 15 minutes every day for a "thinking walk" and ask five "why" questions about daily phenomena. For example, seeing fallen leaves and thinking about the impact chain of seasonal changes on ecosystems.

2. Building a knowledge network

New knowledge should be linked to existing experience. When learning about financial concepts, budget control for shopping at Lenovo Supermarket can increase memory retention by 300% through this "knowledge hyperlink".

2. Upgrade Information Processing System

1. Cultivate Metacognitive Ability

When solving problems, synchronously observe one's own thinking process. Just like a task manager on a computer, it can monitor in real-time which "thought processes" are running.

2. Set thought speed bumps

Force a 10 minute pause when encountering important decisions. When the brain is running at low speeds, the prefrontal cortex can more effectively integrate fragmented information.

3. Optimize brain hardware configuration

1. Intermittent brainstorming

Switch different types of thinking activities every 45 minutes, such as switching to spatial imagination games after mathematical calculations. This kind of 'cognitive cross training' can prevent thinking patterns.

2. Sleep organization technique

Take 5 minutes before bedtime to review the key information of the day. During REM sleep, the brain reorganizes memory fragments like organizing computer files.

4. Expand cognitive boundaries

1. Regularly engage with unfamiliar fields

Learn a completely unfamiliar skill every month, even if it's origami or Rubik's Cube. The sense of unfamiliarity stimulates the brain to generate new neural synapses.

2. Create moderate chaos

Occasionally disrupt the flow of life, such as changing hands to brush teeth. This' controllable chaos' can enhance the adaptability of the brain environment.

V. Creating a Thinking Training Ground

1. Reverse Thinking Practice

Regularly play hypothetical games of "what if...". Imagine what adjustments the transportation system would need if the car were to drive on the left.

2. Concept transfer training

applies mathematical thinking patterns to interpersonal communication, such as using probability theory to analyze uncertainty in social interactions.

6. Establish feedback correction mechanism

1. Mind log method

Record the thinking path when making important decisions, and review it three months later. Time difference can expose many blind spots in thinking.

2. The upgraded version of the error book

not only records knowledge errors, but also analyzes the types of cognitive biases. Common examples include "confirmation bias" and "anchoring effect". Cognitive enhancement is like fitness, requiring a scientific training plan. Choose the way that suits you and continue practicing. After three months, you will be surprised by the transformation of your thinking. Remember, the most powerful cognitive upgrade often occurs when you teach what you have learned to others.