Summary of "How I Tricked My Brain To Study 16 Hrs Everyday| Huberman Method"
Key Wellness and Productivity Strategies from the Video
1. Use a Simple, Scientific Daily Planning System
- Plan your day in just 5 minutes using a straightforward method.
- Use a notebook or simple tools rather than overcomplicated apps (though a free Notion template is available for those who prefer digital).
- Avoid burnout by focusing on quality and efficiency rather than just long hours.
2. Six-Step Framework for Effective Daily Planning and Studying
Step 1: Capture
Write down all tasks and study topics you ideally want to complete that day. Example: Instead of studying everything, list key topics based on previous exams or seniors’ advice.
Step 2: Rule of Three
Prioritize and select the three most important tasks for the day based on their value and impact. (Science-backed to save time and improve focus.)
Step 3: Plan Every Minute
Schedule your entire day in time blocks, including breaks and off-time, to prevent autopilot and wasted time.
Step 4: Execute in Sprints (Pomodoro Technique)
Work with intense focus for short, timed intervals (e.g., 25 minutes), free from distractions. Set slightly challenging goals for each sprint to boost productivity.
Step 5: Paperclip Strategy (Track Progress)
Use a simple monthly planner or visual tracker to mark progress daily, which enhances motivation by showing tangible improvement.
Step 6: Minimize Pain and Create Immediate Deadlines
Break long-term goals into smaller, time-bound parts (e.g., 3 months, 1 month, 1 week) to maintain motivation and reduce procrastination.
3. Overcoming Common Pitfalls
- Avoid studying excessively without strategy, which leads to burnout and poor results.
- Manage stress and avoid overworking to prevent health issues (e.g., ear pain from stress).
- Limit screen time before bed to improve sleep quality (use sleep tracking apps).
4. Recommended Tools and Apps for Students
- Notebook LM: Converts study PDFs into audio podcasts for learning on the go.
- Perplexity Comment: AI browser assistant that summarizes YouTube videos and removes ads.
- Gemini: AI tutor and research assistant for clarifying doubts and deep research.
- Notion: All-in-one student platform with planner, subject tracker, and revision tracker (free for students).
- Sleep Cycle: Tracks and improves sleep quality by reducing screen time before bed.
5. Additional Tips
- Consistency is key—scientific planning methods help build addictive consistency.
- Quality of focus multiplies productivity more than sheer hours spent.
- Use motivational psychology (self-determination theory) by tracking progress to feel competent and motivated.
- Follow Huberman’s sleep system to shift to an early morning routine effectively.
Presenters / Sources
- Ragaram Chandraar Alam (IT Madras) – main presenter
- James Clear (author of Atomic Habits) – referenced for paperclip strategy
- Cal Newport (author of Deep Work) – referenced for focus and productivity
- Pier Steel (author of The Procrastination Equation) – referenced for motivation and deadlines
- Aish Sharon (UPSC topper) – example of perseverance and progress tracking
- Andrew Huberman (Stanford neuroscientist) – sleep system for morning routine transformation
Category
Wellness and Self-Improvement