What is it
Concept chaining is taking a new concept and mentally connecting it to previously-learned concepts. By connecting a new concept to an existing concept, it becomes easier to reason about and remember, and it fits better within one’s working memory.
How to do it
This is often capitalized on by textbook authors, by presenting concepts in a logical progression. For example, subtraction can be presented in relation to the similar concept of addition. By connecting subtraction (new concept) to addition (already known concept), it becomes easier to understand and remember. When you are learning new concepts or facts, try to connect them to existing concepts and facts you already know. This requires creative thought, rather than rote memorization, and is easily integrated in the Feynman technique and other similar “use your own words” approaches. Simply include already-known concepts within your own words. Depending on how far you reach for the existing concept, this can be considered an example of diffuse thinking. The more existing concepts you can connect the new one to, the stronger its foundation will be.
When to apply it
Any time you are learning new concepts or facts.
Pages that link here: