When you read a statistics text, it is helpful to be a active reader. As you take in what the author intended, it helps to do a ‘self translation’. Statistics is not a common language. It helps to break-down concepts in relatable context. If you read the sentence ‘The data must meet the testing assumptions’- ask your self questions. What is data? What are testing assumptions? Why must one meet ‘testing assumptions. It would be helpful to take a journal and write-up what testing assumptions mean to you. But the key is to translate the definition in your own words. Add examples to your journal entry that make sense.

During my college years, I took a course in Calculus. Back then I stumbled upon a studying method that worked for me. I would (1) read a concept, (2) translate its meaning, (3) meet with my professor to go over an example, and (4) solidify the notes in math journal. I was the type of learner that needed to write down my understanding of the material. Translating words in my own understanding, put things into context for me. As time went on I was able to recite the concepts from memory and provide examples. Active reading , in my opinion, is the best way to learn statistics.

A few weeks ago, I released my new book ‘Cloud Clearing: In Your Own Words…A Math Journal for Graduate Students’. The idea is that you read the text and journal each concept on a regular basis. As a side note, I still have my math journal. It represents my breakthrough for understanding math.

Here is a link to the book here