Studying Advice on self studying material

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Self-studying subjects like math, physics, and programming can be challenging, especially when encountering gaps in foundational knowledge. A common issue is the tendency to rush through material, leading to confusion and a cycle of revisiting earlier chapters, which can hinder progress and cause frustration. To address this, it's recommended to focus on specific projects that provide clear goals. For instance, instead of aiming to master a broad topic like multivariable calculus, pursuing a concrete project—such as developing a program to enhance photos—can create a more structured learning path. This approach encourages learning relevant concepts in context, helping to maintain interest and coherence in the study process while gradually building expertise.
Yashbhatt
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Hi. Looking for general advice on self studying math, physics, programming etc.

What happens often with me is either I go too fast and encounter for which my basics aren't clear enough and going back and forth between chapters/modules boggs me down. So, I erase my overall progress and just start with the basic chapters again but a lot of it starts to get repetitive and I lose interest. So, in a way I know the basics of many subjects but fail to gain expertise in any of them. Any advise on how to avoid the back and forth and learn in a coherent manner?
 
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One thought is to find a very specific project that you are determined to accomplish. Then study whatever is necessary to accomplish it. A project like "Write a computer program to enhance the photos of my grandparents" is less nebuluous than that an ambition like "Master multivariable calculus".
 
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I graduated with a BSc in Physics in 2020. Since there were limited opportunities in my country (mostly teaching), I decided to improve my programming skills and began working in IT, first as a software engineer and later as a quality assurance engineer, where I’ve now spent about 3 years. While this career path has provided financial stability, I’ve realized that my excitement and passion aren’t really there, unlike what I felt when studying or doing research in physics. Working in IT...
I have a specialization in condensed matter physics and materials physics, and off-late, I have been seeing a lot of research directions moving towards quantum computing (AMO and non-linear optics) and the huge chunk of quantum materials research (and funding) is dedicated towards QIS and QC research. I am wondering (sort of in a dilemma), if I should consider switching my field? I am currently at the stage of a postdoc.

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