Final answer:
To improve quickly and sustainably, engage in consistent, moderate practice over time, and employ strategies to promote metacognition and memory retention. Avoid distractions and manage stress for optimal learning conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fastest way to improve in any subject is through consistent, moderate practice over time. Intensive, short bursts of focused practice can yield quick improvements, but for sustainable development and mastery, regular and deliberate practice is key. This approach encourages metacognition, which is the awareness and understanding of one's own thought processes, and helps in forming long-term memory through techniques such as elaborative rehearsal and the self-reference effect. Moreover, distributed practice and rehearsal over time are essential to solidify knowledge and skills.
Avoiding challenges to prevent mistakes (c) or changing goals frequently to stay engaged (d) can actually hinder your progress. To optimize the conditions for learning, manage your workspace to minimize distractions and stress, which can adversely affect your ability to focus and process information deeply. By setting a well-organized study schedule and being disciplined about sticking to it, you give your brain the best chance to absorb and retain new information.
Engaging in practices like doing math in your head instead of using a calculator, and using memory-enhancing strategies, such as rehearsing information and making connections with what you already know can build mental capacity and aid in memory retention. A moderate amount of stress can be beneficial, but be mindful not to let the stress hinder your health and cognitive efficiency.