Questions from readers, including tips on language learning, learning and aging, whether to use flashcards to learn history and the impact of AI on our collective intelligence.
What Does Research Say is the Best Way to Learn a Language?
A review of How Languages are Learned, covering the evidence behind six popular language-learning approaches.
My #1 Rule for Writing
Write what you like to read, and regardless of what others think, you’ll have something you can be proud of.
Self-Efficacy: The Key to Understanding What Motivates You
What is self-efficacy and the three most important takeaways to succeed with challenging goals
I'm a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, podcast host, computer programmer and an avid reader. Since 2006, I've published weekly essays on this website to help people like you learn and think better. My work has been featured in The New York Times, BBC, TEDx, Pocket, Business Insider and more. I don't promise I have all the answers, just a place to start.