The first 20 hours -- how to learn anything | Josh Kaufman | TEDxCSU

Introduction

This tutorial is designed to guide you on how to effectively learn any new skill or subject in just 20 hours, inspired by Josh Kaufman's TEDx talk. Kaufman shares practical strategies that can help you overcome the initial hurdles of learning something new, making it accessible to anyone looking to expand their skills.

Step 1: Choose Your Skill

• Identify a skill you want to learn.
• Ensure it is specific and well-defined, for example, "playing the guitar" instead of "music."
• Consider your motivations and how this skill can benefit you in real-world applications.

Step 2: Deconstruct the Skill

• Break down the skill into smaller, manageable parts or sub-skills.
  • For example, if learning guitar, focus on:
    • Basic chords
    • Strumming patterns
    • Finger placement
• Prioritize the most important sub-skills that will help you get started quickly.

Step 3: Learn Enough to Self-Correct

• Gather resources to learn the basics of each sub-skill. Consider:
  • Online tutorials
  • Books
  • YouTube videos
• Aim to learn just enough to identify mistakes and self-correct your technique.

Step 4: Practice Deliberately

• Set aside a dedicated time for practice. Aim for at least 20 hours total, but spread this over several sessions.
• Focus on practicing deliberately:
  • Set specific goals for each practice session.
  • Monitor your progress and adjust your techniques as necessary.
• Avoid distractions during practice to maximize focus.

Step 5: Get Feedback

• Seek feedback on your performance from knowledgeable sources:
  • Instructors
  • Peers
  • Online communities
• Use their insights to refine your skills and improve your learning process.

Step 6: Embrace the Learning Process

• Acknowledge that the initial phase of learning can be challenging.
• Stay patient and consistent, understanding that mastery takes time.
• Celebrate small victories to maintain motivation throughout your learning journey.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can effectively learn any new skill in just 20 hours. Start by choosing a specific skill, deconstructing it into manageable parts, and practicing deliberately. Remember, the key is to focus on steady improvement and self-correction. With dedication and patience, you can master new skills and enjoy the process of learning. Now, take the first step and start your learning journey today!