Elaborative Interrogation: Asking “why” about facts or concepts helps create a deeper understanding. By seeking thorough explanations, you link new ideas to what you already know.

Self-Explanation: Using prior knowledge to explain and understand new concepts solidifies understanding. This technique is particularly effective when combined with examples and creative note-taking.

Learning Activity:
Choose a concept you’re currently learning and practice elaborative interrogation by asking why each fact is true. Then, use self-explanation by describing it in your own words. Try to “teach” yourself or imagine explaining it to someone else.