Daily Habits for improving Physics/Math Knowledge and skill

[majormuss]

Hi,
I am a first-year graduate student in a physics phd program in the US, who is looking to adopt new habits that can directly help improve my physics/math knowledge and skills. I am not necessarily talking about memorizing math multiplication/division tricks etc. I am more interested in daily habits that allow me to "passively" improve my knowledge of advanced math/stats and physics concepts my knowledge. By "passively", I mean habits that don't require me to sit up on my desk at specific times with a notebook and a textbook, actively reading and solving problems. I am trying to improve my math/physics skillset by working smarter with better habits rather than simply working harder. Tips that incorporate technology (tablets, notebooks etc.) are even better.

 

[fresh_42]

I have a very simple answer. However, it does not involve technical devices to do the job for you, at least not directly. Will say a notebook is convenient, but a library will do.

Stay curious! Do not stop asking why!

 

[symbolipoint]

That is not the kind of concern that a graduate student of Physics would have. Even if first-year.

 

[majormuss]

That is not the kind of concern that a graduate student of Physics would have. Even if first-year.

Why is that? Graduate students are above the desire to become better at what they do?

 

[Dr. Courtney]

My experience is there is no substitute for careful pencil and paper solutions to lots and lots of physics problems.

Learning time is most effective with the pencil moving.

And rather than passively review problems one has already worked, it is more effective to work them again, completely, with pencil and paper.

If you are not already spending 10-20 hours a week working physics problems, you need to work harder, not smarter. Your PhD qualifying exams will either spank you or reward you.

 

[berkeman]

looking to adopt new habits that can directly help improve my physics/math knowledge and skills

A small thing that is easy to do and helpful IMO is to buy a Math Calendar each year. The answer to the math problem of the day is the date in the month (so no mystery), and some calculations are not too hard, but others are very hard requiring some research and learning new things. Hang this on your wall for a low-key motivation to keep improving your math skills...

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1884550797/?tag=pfamazon01-20

 

[majormuss]

My experience is there is no substitute for careful pencil and paper solutions to lots and lots of physics problems.

Learning time is most effective with the pencil moving.

And rather than passively review problems one has already worked, it is more effective to work them again, completely, with pencil and paper.

If you are not already spending 10-20 hours a week working physics problems, you need to work harder, not smarter. Your PhD qualifying exams will either spank you or reward you.

I am definitely surpassing 10-20 hours per week. I do like your suggestion though.