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Elaborative Interrogation
Ask yourself "why" and "how" questions to create deeper understanding and stronger memory connections.
Understanding15-20 min
The Science Behind It
Elaborative interrogation activates prior knowledge and creates rich, interconnected memory networks. This technique engages the hippocampus and enhances semantic processing.
How It Works
Understanding the cognitive mechanisms
- 1Asking "why" activates deeper processing
- 2Connects new information to existing knowledge
- 3Creates multiple retrieval pathways
- 4Builds conceptual understanding
Practical Implementation
Step-by-step guide to apply this technique
Key Benefits
What you'll gain from mastering this technique
- Creates deeper, more durable understanding
- Improves ability to explain concepts
- Enhances critical thinking skills
- Makes knowledge more transferable
Supporting Research
Scientific evidence backing this technique
Elaborative interrogation improved learning by 50% compared to passive reading
Dunlosky et al., 2013 - Psychological Science
Self-explanation enhances comprehension and transfer
Chi et al., 1994 - Cognitive Science