Feynman Technique: Identify Your Subject
This step of the Feynman Technique involves writing down everything you know about a subject to define the boundaries of your current knowledge and identify gaps.
THE IDEA
Step 1: Identify Your Subject
Seems obvious, but you need to actually have some idea of what you’re trying to learn or the problem you’re trying to shine light on.
Start by putting down everything you know into words. Use a notebook and pen or a laptop and write down every detail—even if it seems insignificant. In fact, be quite literal and clear—the most interesting areas are where we assume we know something but don’t, or vice versa. Writing things down in black and white is so important because it can help you discern between the two!
What you’re doing is carving out the limits and boundaries of your current knowledge and giving it a shape. Depending on your topic, this can be quite an intuitive and dynamic process. Trust yourself but be open-minded and take nothing for granted. You are not merely remembering and putting down static facts—you are really trying to answer the question what do I know? It can help to consult your “twelve problems” journal if you have been keeping one.
When to use it
Preparing for an exam: Write down everything you know about the topic to identify weak areas before studying.
Starting a new project: List all known aspects to frame the problem and avoid overlooking assumptions.
Learning a skill: Document current abilities to track progress and target improvement areas.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Learning Physics Concepts
A student trying to understand Newton's laws writes down everything they remember, including definitions and equations. This reveals they know the first law but are fuzzy on the second, highlighting areas to study.
Mastering a New Language
A language learner writes down all vocabulary and grammar rules they recall. This exposes gaps in verb conjugations and common phrases, guiding focused practice.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
What subject are you currently trying to learn? Write down everything you know about it without consulting any sources.
Identify one area where your written knowledge is vague. What specific questions arise from that gap?
After writing down your knowledge, what assumptions did you uncover that might be incorrect?
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- Richard Feynmans Mental Models by Peter Hollins