Interleaving
Interleaving, in its simplest form, is a technique of mixing different subjects or skills during study or practice sessions. Instead of focusing on one topic for an extended period (known as blocking), interleaving involves switching between different topics or skills. This approach forces your brain to actively distinguish between concepts, improving long-term retention and understanding. Think of it like shuffling a deck of cards – rather than dealing out all the hearts, then all the diamonds, you mix them up. For example, if you're studying math, instead of spending an entire session on algebra, followed by a session on geometry, you might alternate between algebra problems, geometry problems, and even some calculus problems. In sports, a basketball player might practice free throws, dribbling, and layups in a mixed-up order, rather than dedicating separate blocks of time to each skill. This method challenges the brain to retrieve and apply the correct knowledge or skill each time, leading to more robust learning. Interleaving is not always easy, as it can feel more challenging in the short term, but the long-term benefits for learning and memory are significant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between interleaving and multitasking?
Interleaving, in the context of learning, is about strategically mixing different *subjects* or *skills* during study or practice. Multitasking, on the other hand, is attempting to do multiple *tasks* simultaneously. Multitasking often involves rapidly switching attention between tasks, which can be cognitively demanding and reduce performance. Interleaving, when done thoughtfully, enhances learning by forcing your brain to discriminate and retrieve information, whereas multitasking often leads to decreased focus and efficiency.
Is interleaving always better than blocking?
While interleaving generally leads to better long-term retention and understanding, blocking can be useful for initial learning. When you're first introduced to a new concept, it's helpful to focus on it exclusively to build a solid foundation. Once you have a basic understanding, interleaving can help you to solidify your knowledge and develop a deeper understanding.
Does interleaving work for all subjects?
Interleaving can be applied to a wide range of subjects and skills. However, it's most effective when the subjects or skills are related in some way. This allows you to see the connections and relationships between them. It might be less effective to interleave completely unrelated topics, such as astrophysics and ancient history, unless you are specifically trying to draw connections between them for a particular purpose.
How much should I interleave?
The optimal amount of interleaving depends on the complexity of the material and your learning style. Start by gradually introducing more variety into your study sessions. Pay attention to how you are performing on each topic and adjust your approach accordingly. If you are struggling with a particular concept, spend more time on it before returning to interleaving.
Is interleaving difficult?
Interleaving can feel more challenging than blocking, especially at first. This is because it forces your brain to work harder. However, this difficulty is desirable because it leads to better long-term learning. With practice, interleaving will become easier and more natural.