How to Double Your Power to Learn: A Book Review

How to Double Your Power to Learn: A Book Review

How to Double Your Power to Learn: A Book Review

"How to Double Your Power to Learn" by Eugene M. Schwartz is a self-help guide that aims to teach readers how to improve their reading, writing, and mathematics skills. The book is divided into six parts, each focusing on a different aspect of learning.

Part One: The Simple Strategy of Power Learning

This section introduces the book's central theme: the importance of developing a strong foundation in reading, writing, and mathematics. Schwartz argues that these three skills are the building blocks of success, and that mastering them will lead to greater success in all areas of life.

He also emphasizes the importance of organization and time management, providing readers with a simple daily study schedule and tips for eliminating distractions.

Part Two: Digging Out the Facts-Reading

This section focuses on improving reading skills. Schwartz introduces a variety of techniques for increasing reading speed and comprehension, including pre-reading, flash-reading, and note-taking.

Schwartz highlights the importance of active reading, arguing that simply recognizing words is not enough. He emphasizes the importance of identifying the key ideas in a text and then using those ideas to build a mental outline.

Part Three: Expressing the Facts-Writing and Conversing

This section focuses on improving writing and communication skills. Schwartz emphasizes the importance of correct spelling, providing a simple, three-step system for learning to spell difficult words. He also provides tips for writing clear and concise sentences and structuring paragraphs.

Part Four: Mathematics Can Be Fun, If You Do It This Way

This section dispels the myth that mathematics is difficult and boring. Schwartz argues that mathematics is simply the art of solving problems step-by-step. He provides readers with a set of basic principles for improving accuracy and avoiding careless mistakes in mathematics.

Schwartz also introduces the idea of creating physical models to help visualize abstract mathematical concepts, such as fractions.

Part Five: Mastering Facts-The Art of Remembering and Review

This section focuses on improving memory and review skills. Schwartz emphasizes the importance of active review, arguing that simply rereading material is not enough. He introduces a system for creating a detailed notebook that includes an outline of key concepts, a vocabulary list, and a record of mistakes.

Schwartz also provides a step-by-step guide for conducting a thorough review of the material before an exam.

Part Six: How to Breeze Through Tests

This section provides tips for preparing for and taking tests. Schwartz emphasizes the importance of eliminating fear and anxiety, and he outlines a strategy for mastering the different types of test questions, including true-false, multiple-choice, completion, matching, enumeration, sequence, cross-out, and analogy questions.

He also provides a detailed guide for reviewing the material before the test and for managing time during the test itself.

Conclusion

"How to Double Your Power to Learn" is a comprehensive and practical guide to improving learning skills. It is filled with valuable tips and techniques that can help readers to improve their reading, writing, and mathematics skills, as well as their ability to prepare for and take tests. The book is written in a clear and engaging style, and it is easy to follow.

Overall, "How to Double Your Power to Learn" is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their learning skills. Whether you are a student, a professional, or simply someone who wants to learn new things, this book can help you to reach your full potential.