The Feynman Technique

The Feynman Technique was first invented by Richard Feynman, a physicist and Nobel Prize winner. Feynman believed that anyone is capable of learning and understanding any topic at any level of complexity.

The Feynman Technique was development through observations into how Feynman learnt different topics, and his ability to simplify complex concepts.

So, what is The Feynman Technique?

The Feynman Technique is a five-step learning concept to aid in learning and understanding any topic or concept. It focuses on comprehensive understanding of the topic rather than memorisation of key terms, facts or high-level understanding.

Follow the steps if you’re wanting to learn about a topic but are struggling with where to start or how to go about it.

Step 1

Choose a concept or topic to learn about. This could be anything you are interested in learning about. This does not necessarily need to be a topic you know nothing about, just something you want to learn more about or become more proficient with. Once you have chosen our topic, write down everything you currently know about that topic. You can either do this by writing bullet points, steps, a mind map, descriptions, jargon, keywords, etc.

Once you have written down everything you currently know and have gathered your thoughts on the topic, move onto step 2.

Step 2

Using what you have written down in step 1, teach it to someone else. Take everything you know about the topic and try to teach it; this will give you an understanding of how much knowledge you actually have on the topic and where there are gaps.

Make sure to take out any technical jargon or complex concepts. A person who knows a topic well, will be able to explain and teach a concept in a simple and clear way.

Step 3

Once you have identified where your knowledge gaps are, go back to your source material to continue learning about the areas that you are unsure about.

You may need to use several different materials to get a full comprehensive view of everything you are missing. As you learn, go back to what you wrote in step 1 and add to it or edit parts as you learn new things about the topic.  

Step 4

Once you fell you have a better understanding of the topic, try to simplify your explanations. The simpler the better. By being able to break down the concept, it'll help to solidify your understanding.

Using jargon can often hide a lack of knowledge of a concept or idea. If you can explain a topic without using jargon, it’s a good indicator that you understand the topic. If you can’t explain a concept without using jargon, you need to go back and revise your materials.

Step 5

Repeat steps 2 – 4 as many times as you need until you are satisfied with your knowledge of the topic. Complex topics may take many rounds before you even feel like you’ve scratched the surface, and that’s okay! Perseverance and consistency are key!

The Feynman Technique is a great tool for anyone wanting to learn about a new topic, or expand their knowledge on an existing topic they have experience in.

If you have tried using the Feynman Technique, let me know how it went and if it worked for you!

Emma