Simple Hack to Learn 2X Faster

While learning React, I couldn’t help but notice how slow the instructor spoke in the recorded lectures. It makes sense being intentionally slow to give time for students to think while absorbing the materials. But after a while, it started to feel like I was waiting for molasses to pour on a chilly day.

That’s when I discovered the magical speed-up button. Just like that, I was zipping through lectures at 2x speed. It’s like turning your study sessions into an action movie — everything’s faster, more intense, and oddly satisfying.

It turns out, this isn’t just a life hack — it’s backed by science! According to a Caltech study, the human brain is actually faster than our ears. “Multimodal learning” — fancy talk for combining audio and visuals — supercharges how much we can absorb. So, not only are you learning faster, but your brain is also giving you a virtual high-five for being efficient.

Why It Works

Our brains is capable to process and retain information much faster than the pace of normal speech. Increasing the playback speed while listening, it helps to

• Increases Focus: The faster pace reduces the tendency to zone out.

• Improves Comprehension: Your brain adapts to processing information more efficiently over time.

• Saves Time: Completes a 2-hour lecture in just 1 hour, leaving room for review or practice.

How to Use the Hack Effectively

It does take some practice to get to 2x speed-listening. For me, 1.2x is a good comfortable starter pace; 1.5x is efficient and manageable for most content; and 2.0x requires focus but significantly speeds up learning. With time and practice, anyone can adapt and effectively process content at faster speeds.

I’ve also experimented with going beyond 2x, but it becomes overwhelming and impractical and causes “burn out”, so I don’t recommend.

1. Start Gradually

Don’t expect you will be zipping through materials like superman onset. Instead, try at 1.25x or 1.5x speed to get used to faster playback. Gradually increase to 2x speed as your brain adapts to processing quicker speech.

1. Leverage Closed Captions

This is super important as part of “multimodal learning” to engage our visual sensors to read subtitles to help with clarity, especially for technical or unfamiliar content.

3. Take Notes Strategically

Use digital tools like Notion or OneNote to jot down key points quickly. Online classes like Udemy and Coursea have note taking tools built-in with video timestamp.

1. Revisit Critical Sections

It’s perfectly fine to slow down and walk after a sprint, especially when revisiting difficult sections at a normal speed to ensure thorough understanding.

Free Tools for Enhanced Learning

1. Playback Speed Controllers:

• Chrome Extensions:

• Video Speed Controller: Allows fine-tuned speed adjustments on most video platforms.

• Enhancer for YouTube: Adds playback speed shortcuts for YouTube.

• Native Tools:

• YouTube, Udemy, Coursera, and similar platforms often have built-in speed controls.

1. Note-Taking Apps:

• Notion, Obsidian, or Evernote: Great for organizing notes with tags, links, and summaries.

• AudioNote: Syncs audio or video with your notes.

• ReClipped: Lets you save video highlights and make notes directly linked to timestamps.

1. Flashcard Tools:

• Anki (spaced repetition): Use it to create cards from your notes for active recall.

• Quizlet: Easier to set up and includes premade decks.

My Sample Routine for Learning with 2x Speed

I’ve developed an approach to studying at 2x speed that strikes a balance between efficiency and comprehension. My method combines strategic preparation, active note-taking, and consistent review, allowing me to absorb complex concepts quickly while ensuring a solid understanding.

Here’s how I’ve made it work for me and how it can work for you too.

1. Preparation (5 mins):

• Review the syllabus or key concepts for the session.

• Set a specific goal (e.g., “Understand how recursion works”).

1. Study (30–60 mins):

• Watch the video at 1.2x — 2x speed, adjust accordingly

• Pause to note down key points or rewatch unclear sections.

1. Review (15 mins):

• Summarize what you learned.

• Optional — Create flashcards or a mind map of the main ideas.

1. Practice (30+ mins):

• Practice exercises or implement the learned concepts in real-world scenarios.

Final Thoughts

This simple hack can transform how you learn, making it faster, more efficient, and more engaging. Combine it with proven techniques like active recall and spaced repetition, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering new skills in no time. Try it out, and unlock your potential!