Generation Improves Your Learning
The Big Picture: Generating the questions you want answered before you listen to a lecture or read a text boosts your comprehension.
Why it works: Trying to solve a problem (even if you’re wrong) forces you to search your memory for related information. It primes your brain by working hard to fill in a gap in knowledge. When the answer shows up during learning, connections are made and the material is more strongly encoded.
How to do it: Next time you’re about to learn something new, take 5 minutes and write down 2-3 questions you want answered. Then, recall any knowledge you have on the topic and try to answer your questions. The more you struggle the better.
Try it: Sign up here to try it in our new Learning Tool.
Go Deeper: Read more about generation in learning outcomes.