Learning is Like Lacquerware (Efficient Learning Methods #QuoteNotebook66)

The quote I would like to introduce this time is here!

It might not click right away. But once you understand the meaning, it's a quote that makes you think, 'I see!'

What is lacquerware?

Lacquerware (urushi-nuri) is a traditional Eastern technique where a paint called 'urushi,' refined from the sap of lacquer trees, is applied to the surface of materials like wood, paper, or metal to finish them. It can also refer to the craft items made using this technique.

Lacquerware is completed through a process that takes a great deal of time and effort, starting with preparing the base and repeatedly applying and polishing layers of lacquer. The more layers applied, the higher the durability.

The Lacquerware Study Method

The phrase 'Learning is like lacquerware' has an unknown origin, but as you can see from online articles like 'The Lacquerware Study Method' or 'Thinking of learning as lacquerware leads to success,' it is a widely known tip for studying among those in the know.

It is a highly versatile and essential concept that can be applied not only to studying during your student years but also to the 'learning' that continues after you become an adult and enter society, and even to 'hobbies' that involve acquiring skills like playing an instrument or sports.

To solidify memory, use repetition and consistency!

The lacquerware study method is a learning approach that solidifies memory by repeatedly layering it over and over. It is based on the idea that, just like lacquerware, repeating reviews multiple times allows knowledge to take root and become harder to forget.

For example, I think many people have completely memorized their home address or frequently used passwords. The reason you can remember that information is likely not because you are particularly good at memorizing addresses or passwords.

It is simply because you have a high 'frequency of exposure' to that information, so it naturally becomes solidified in your memory.

To put it in complex terms, it can be said that you have fully transitioned from 'short-term memory' to 'long-term memory.'

The 'lacquerware study method' I am introducing this time is a technique for consciously transitioning learned content from 'short-term memory' to 'long-term memory.'

Specific methods

1. Input the content you want to memorize

Read reference books or listen to lectures to first understand the content and get it into your head.

2. Review repeatedly

Review the content you have input once by repeating it over time.

Review in short intervals: Instead of reviewing for a long time at once, it is more effective to break it up into short sessions and repeat them many times. Review using various methods: By reviewing through different methods such as reading aloud, writing things down, or explaining them to others, it becomes easier to solidify your memory.

3. Don't worry if you forget

Even if you have learned something once, there are times when you will forget it as time passes. However, instead of viewing forgetting as a negative, see it as a chance to relearn, and by reviewing it again, you can strengthen your memory.

Key points of the Lacquerware Study Method

The 'Lacquerware Study Method' is simply a 'method' that puts into words the importance of repeating reviews many times. Since everyone has different preferences for their 'style' of studying, please try to engage in study using a style that suits you.

Consistency is power

It is important to continue reviewing, even if it is just a little bit every day. I recommend adopting a style that suits you, such as morning study if you are a morning person, or studying at night if you can concentrate better then. What I especially recommend is doing it at a set time every day.

Use a method that suits you

Since the methods that make it easy to memorize vary from person to person, it is important to find a review method that works for you. For example, when I try to memorize English words, I cannot remember them at all if I try to write them down. However, if I go through a vocabulary book or flashcards at high speed, they stick in my head quite well. Some people might find that listening to audio helps them remember better.

Enjoy learning

If you find reviewing painful, your motivation will not last, so it is also important to enjoy learning as if it were a game. A marathon where you don't know where the finish line is can be painful. I recommend signing up for a certification exam for the subject you are studying first. Once the date is set, your motivation for daily study will surprisingly increase. I recommend not waiting until you are prepared to sign up for the exam, but rather signing up for the exam and then continuing your studies until the day arrives.

Summary

This was the quote I introduced this time!

It has been scientifically shown that repeating the same content over and over is effective for memory retention. It is famous for the 'Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve'.

If you feel like you are not retaining what you learn or that you lack talent, there is a high possibility that you are simply not repeating it enough. First, please try repeating the same content at least three times, or five times if possible.

Unless you are a genius, it is impossible to remember something after just one try. Let's hack efficient learning with the Lacquerware Study Method!

It is also recommended to record the number of repetitions using an app or a notebook. It leads to motivation.

By the way, this is based on experience, but if there is study material that you just cannot retain in your head even after repeating it three or five times, I think it might not be for you.

Conversely, there are some themes where, even if it doesn't click the first time, learning becomes fun as you get more and more absorbed in it while repeating the study process.

The "Lacquerware Study Method" can also be used as a tool to determine what you are suited for and what you are not. Please give it a try!

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