Elaboration

Why it Matters?

Elaboration is a practice that helps one gain mastery of content by making explicit connections between material learned and what you already know. This will help push the information into long-term memory because when we dive deeper into content, we create meaningful connections and make learning relevant. 

How do I use Elaboration?

• Ask questions such as:

   

  - How do the ideas relate to what I already know? 

   

  - Did I have any misunderstandings?

   

  - Can I describe the idea or clarify the skill?

   

  - How does it all fit together? 

   

  - What evidence supports this thinking?

• Create a visual image or concept map linking ideas together
• Create a metaphor for what you have learned.
• Teach someone else.

When do I use Elaboration? 

Elaboration is a form of self-explaining, and it is particularly effective when integrating new concepts with prior knowledge or when seeking to understand complex topics in greater depth.

Action: 

Put elaboration into practice with your next study session. Choose a concept you're learning, and spend 15 minutes applying the elaboration techniques we've discussed. Try to explain the concept in your own words, draw a concept map, or even teach the idea to a friend. Afterward, reflect on how these activities have deepened your understanding and connection to the material.