The Feynman Technique: How to Learn Anything Faster by Teaching It

📅 Published May 25th, 2025

Ever feel like you're drowning in information? Like complex subjects just won't stick? There's a powerful solution: the Feynman Technique. This method, named after the legendary physicist Richard Feynman, is all about understanding, not just memorizing. Think of it as learning by teaching!

What is the Feynman Technique?

Simply put, the Feynman Technique is about teaching a concept to actually learn it. The idea is that if you can break something down and explain it simply, you really get it. Richard Feynman, famous for explaining complicated physics in plain language, knew that true understanding means being able to communicate an idea clearly and concisely. Want to know more about Feynman himself? Check out Todoist Inspiration.

What's so great about this technique? It exposes your knowledge gaps! When you try to teach something, you quickly realize what you don't know. That's when you can dig in and get a real understanding. Sound familiar? Like the Blurting Method, the Feynman Technique puts a big emphasis on active recall.

The Four Steps of the Feynman Technique

The Feynman Technique breaks down learning into four manageable steps. Let's take a look:

1. Choose a Concept: Pick a specific topic you want to master.
2. Teach It: Explain the concept in simple terms, like you're teaching it to a kid.
3. Identify Gaps: Notice where your explanation gets shaky or confusing.
4. Review and Simplify: Go back to the source material to fill those gaps and make your understanding even clearer.

Step 1: Choosing Your Concept

The first step is to choose exactly what you want to learn. This could be a theorem, a historical event – anything!

• Get Specific: Avoid huge, general topics. Zoom in on a specific problem or a particular aspect of a larger subject.
• One at a Time: Focus on one concept at a time. This lets you go deep and avoids overwhelm.
• Good Examples: Think "Newton's Laws of Motion," "Photosynthesis," or "The Causes of the French Revolution."

Want to really boost your focus while using the Feynman Technique? Try combining it with strategies for 'Deep Work for Students'.

Step 2: Teaching the Concept to a 12-Year-Old

This is where the magic happens! Your goal is to explain the concept in a way that a 12-year-old could grasp it.

• Simplify, Simplify, Simplify: Teaching a child forces you to ditch the jargon and complex terms.
• No Jargon Allowed: Use plain, everyday language to explain the core ideas.
• Focus on the Basics: Concentrate on the fundamental principles.

Step 3: Identifying and Addressing Knowledge Gaps

This is where you'll find out what you really know. As you try to explain, you'll hit those areas where your understanding is weak.

• Spot the Stumbles: Pay close attention to where your explanation gets vague or confusing. Those are your knowledge gaps.
• Back to the Source: Head back to your books, notes, or other resources to fill in those gaps.
• Variety is Key: Don't just stick to one source. Look at different textbooks, articles, or videos to get a well-rounded understanding.

After you've tried explaining a concept, try 'Mind Mapping' it to see how all the ideas connect.

Step 4: Reviewing and Simplifying for Maximum Retention

The final step is to keep tweaking your explanation until it's crystal clear and easy to understand.

• Keep Refining: Revise your explanation until you can say it simply and accurately.
• Use Analogies and Examples: Make the concept relatable with analogies and real-world examples.
• Talk to Yourself: Test your knowledge by explaining the concept to yourself again and again.

Want to really lock in that knowledge? Combine the Feynman technique with 'Interleaving Practice' to boost your retention.

Benefits of Using the Feynman Technique

The Feynman Technique is a game-changer for students and anyone who loves to learn. For a deeper dive, check out the 'Feynman Technique' article on the Farnam Street Blog.

• Better Understanding and Retention: By really engaging with the material, you'll understand it better and remember it longer.
• Sharper Problem-Solving Skills: Breaking down complex problems into simpler parts is a skill that will help you in all areas of life.
• More Confidence: As you master new concepts, you'll feel more confident in your ability to learn anything.
• Works for Everything: The Feynman Technique is great for all subjects and learning styles. It's a valuable tool for anyone who wants to understand things better.