The Feynman Technique for Learning Math
Explain one method simply enough to reveal gaps.
Explain it simply
Teach one carry as raw windows
A good explanation names the window before naming the answer.
- 1Read tens: 6 + 5 = 11.
- 2Read ones: 8 + 7 = 15.
- 3Settle 11 | 15 into 125.
Gap signal
If the carry feels hidden, practice one answer-window example before moving on.
The Feynman Technique is simple: explain an idea in plain language, find where the explanation breaks, then repair that gap. It works well for math because weak understanding usually shows up as vague wording.
The Loop
1. Choose One Concept
Pick a narrow target. "Algebra" is too broad. "Completing the square" is useful.
2. Explain It Simply
Write as if you are teaching a younger student. Use short sentences. Define every symbol you introduce.
3. Mark the Gaps
Circle the sentence where you start hand-waving. That is the next thing to review.
4. Rebuild the Explanation
Go back to the source, work one example, then rewrite the weak part in cleaner language.
Example: 15 Percent
Target: find 15% of a number.
Plain explanation:
15% means 10% plus 5%. Find 10% by moving one decimal place left. Find 5% by taking half of 10%. Add the two parts.
For 240:
- 10% of 240 = 24
- 5% of 240 = 12
- 15% of 240 = 36
If you cannot explain why 5% is half of 10%, review percent as "out of 100" before drilling more examples.
Practice Routine
Use this loop after each mistake:
- Write the missed problem.
- Explain the method in three sentences.
- Mark the sentence that feels unclear.
- Rework one similar problem.
- Rewrite the explanation.
The goal is not a beautiful note. The goal is finding the exact sentence where your understanding runs out.