What is Feynman Technique? The Study Method you should know

One of the greatest virtues that human beings possess is the ability to learn and use logic. This same virtue allows us, just as we satisfy our stomachs with food, we can nourish the brain with new knowledge. 

However, there are learnings whose meanings are so ambiguous that study methods or techniques are needed to understand them more simply.

Feyman became famous not only for his study method, his talent or love for physics. The scientist known worldwide for his brilliant mind also turned out to be an exemplary family man and an outstanding adventurer who traveled in a van that is now iconic.

That is why the method developed by the American physicist and Nobel Prize winner in 1965, Richard Feynman, has gained so many defenders over time. But what is the Feynman technique?

What is the Feynman technique?

The Feynman Technique is a powerful learning method named after Richard Feynman, a renowned physicist and Nobel laureate known for his ability to simplify complex ideas. This technique revolves around the concept of learning by teaching and aims to deepen understanding through a series of steps that encourage comprehension and retention. It’s a versatile method applicable to various subjects and disciplines, making it a valuable tool for learners of all levels.

We can define it as a memorization technique that is carried out in four steps that we will explain progressively.  The attractive thing about the Feynman technique is that, almost without realizing it, your brain goes little by little, trying to assimilate the new information that you are trying to memorize. They say that if you can’t explain a topic to a third party, it means that you yourself don’t fully understand.

And Richard Feynman’s study method is based on organizing these ideas. If you don’t understand it, explaining it will clarify your doubts. One of the weaknesses of this technique is that you may not always have someone to explain it to.

What are the 4 steps of the Feynman technique?

First step: Select the concept or topic to study

At first, you have to define the topic or concept that you should study and that you are going to expand to understand. Take a pencil and remember that paper can handle anything. Put the name of what you are going to study, and put a title that is clear to you from the first moment. (Photosynthesis, the Pythagorean theorem, the water cycle).

Second step: Develop the topic on paper

Once you have read, researched and studied the topic you aimed to memorize, you should be able to explain it and be able to develop it on paper using simple language.

Writing down everything you remember and have captured will be your best friend, from drawings to dates and key numbers, this allows you to retain more information about what you hear.

Once you’ve spent some ink on pieces of paper, treat it like a speech and explain the topic out loud. This will make you realize which parts were not clear to you, because when you doubt you pause and begin to see the gaps you need to fill.

Third step: Fill in the missing information

Now that you have those knowledge gaps, it’s time to pick up more pencil and paper again. Review and complete the information in those parts.

You can use any information you have at your disposal, from images to curious facts. Use the tools you have such as notes, books, internet, maps, mind maps.

It all adds up, as your knowledge will expand and your understanding will improve. So anything that clarifies ideas will be welcome.

Fourth step: Rewrite and explain the topic as if you were teaching it to a child

The last one happened, it will be like an epiphany, because you will have to choose the correct information to give it shape. You will discover that everything you memorized generated your own criteria to understand the topic.

When doing so, to reaffirm the information, after choosing, write again about the topic in simple language, preferably in an agenda. Where you will carry out all the investigations in which you use the Feynman technique.

The 4 steps that Feynman imposed are: choose a topic, teach it, identify errors in your understanding, and finally, review and simplify.

Why the Feynman Technique Works 

The effectiveness of the Feynman Technique lies in its active learning approach. By engaging in the process of teaching, simplifying, and identifying gaps in understanding, learners actively process information rather than passively consuming it. Here’s why it’s so effective: 

Encourages Deep Understanding

Explaining a concept in simple terms requires a thorough understanding of the underlying principles. Teaching forces you to break down complex ideas into their fundamental components, ensuring a deeper grasp of the material. 

Identifies Knowledge Gaps 

As you attempt to teach the concept, you’ll likely encounter areas where your understanding is lacking. These gaps in your knowledge become apparent, signaling areas for further study and improvement.

Reinforces Retention

Actively engaging with the material through teaching and simplification strengthens memory retention. The process of revisiting, refining, and simplifying the concept reinforces the learning process.

Enhances Communication Skills 

The Feynman Technique not only aids in understanding the subject matter but also improves communication skills. The ability to explain complex ideas in simple terms is a valuable skill in various fields.

Practical Applications of the Feynman Technique

Academic Studies 

The Feynman Technique is particularly beneficial for academic studies. Whether you’re preparing for an exam, writing a research paper, or trying to grasp a challenging concept, applying this technique can streamline your learning process. Students across various disciplines have reported significant improvements in their understanding and retention of material through the consistent application of the Feynman Technique.

Professional Development 

Beyond academia, the Feynman Technique has found applications in professional development. In fields where continuous learning is essential, such as technology, healthcare, and finance, individuals use this technique to quickly grasp complex topics and stay abreast of industry advancements. Moreover, professionals often need to communicate complex ideas to colleagues, clients, or the general public, making the ability to simplify and teach crucial for success.

Skill Acquisition 

The Feynman Technique extends beyond traditional academic subjects. It can be applied to skill acquisition, such as learning a programming language, mastering a musical instrument, or acquiring a new language. Breaking down intricate skills into manageable components and teaching them to oneself facilitates a more efficient and comprehensive learning experience.

How to apply the Feynman technique when studying?

The best way to apply Feynman’s method is when the topic must be expanded in depth, as this will help you assimilate and link other knowledge to give clarity to your ideas. 

After having your research complete, read it and explain it to someone else when studying it, you study reality, and if your partner must also learn it, it will be almost by osmosis.

Advantages of learning under the Feynman technique

The biggest advantage of using the Feynman technique is that by filling journals with ink and your ideas, you can always return to them to refresh what you have learned. In case you forget something.

Likewise, one of the main advantages is that you will be able to remember large blocks of knowledge, understand them and be able to transmit it. Following only 4 steps.

Conclusions

Richard Feynman, a true genius, once famously said, “If you can’t explain something to a first-year student, you haven’t really understood it.” This insight alone cemented his place in history.

Feynman developed a method that compels you to investigate, remember, learn, understand, and analyze any topic you need to master.

Don’t miss out on the chance to acquire new knowledge and simplify your life. Believing that you can’t learn is merely an excuse, and a poor one at that. Feynman’s method is more than proven to help you achieve your learning goals.