The First 20 Hours audiobook cover - How to Learn Anything… Fast

The First 20 Hours

How to Learn Anything… Fast

Josh Kaufman

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EducationPersonal Development

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The First 20 Hours
Core Concept: Rapid Skill Acquisition+
Preparation Principles+
Environment & Setup Principles+
Practice Execution Principles+

Quiz — Test Your Understanding

Question 1 of 8
According to the author, what is the primary goal of putting 20 hours of practice into a new skill?
  • A. To become a world-class expert and compete in professional tournaments.
  • B. To cover the basics and reach a substantial level of skill to make further practice easier.
  • C. To perfectly memorize the underlying theory of the skill before attempting it practically.
  • D. To learn how to multitask by acquiring several new skills simultaneously.
Question 2 of 8
Why does the author advise against trying to learn multiple skills at the same time?
  • A. It requires purchasing too many tools and resources all at once.
  • B. It prevents you from establishing a clear target performance level.
  • C. You will progress very slowly, which is likely to demotivate you.
  • D. Your brain is incapable of retaining different types of motor skills simultaneously.
Question 3 of 8
What does defining your 'target performance level' entail?
  • A. Deciding exactly what 'good enough' looks like so you can visualize your goal.
  • B. Comparing your progress to professionals in the field to stay motivated.
  • C. Setting a strict deadline for when you will officially become an expert.
  • D. Breaking down the skill into smaller, manageable sub-skills.
Question 4 of 8
How did the author address his emotional roadblocks and fears when learning to windsurf?
  • A. He ignored his fears and relied on sheer willpower to get through the first 20 hours.
  • B. He familiarized himself with the dangers, bought proper gear, and ensured someone was always present.
  • C. He hired a professional sports psychologist to help him visualize success.
  • D. He practiced exclusively in a controlled indoor pool before stepping into the ocean.
Question 5 of 8
How does the author suggest you 'make time' for your daily 60-90 minutes of practice?
  • A. Wake up two hours earlier every day regardless of your sleep schedule.
  • B. Multitask by practicing while doing household chores or commuting.
  • C. Take a short leave of absence from work to focus entirely on the skill.
  • D. Identify and cut out restless or tedious activities that you aren't particularly fond of.
Question 6 of 8
Why does the author recommend using a timer to practice in short, 20-minute bursts?
  • A. Because human muscle memory can only adapt in 20-minute intervals.
  • B. Because beginners tend to overestimate how much time they've practiced since early learning feels arduous.
  • C. Because it forces you to practice faster and skip unnecessary steps.
  • D. Because practicing for more than 20 minutes a day leads to physical exhaustion.
Question 7 of 8
According to the tenth principle of rapid skill acquisition, what should a beginner prioritize during their initial practice?
  • A. Flawless technique and perfection.
  • B. Quantity and speed.
  • C. Deep theoretical understanding.
  • D. Memorizing all potential mistakes.
Question 8 of 8
What actionable advice does the author give to help clear your schedule for practice time?
  • A. Use a logbook for a few days to identify patterns in how you spend your time.
  • B. Ask your employer to reduce your weekly working hours.
  • C. Delegate all your household chores to family members.
  • D. Delete all social media applications from your phone permanently.

The First 20 Hours — Full Chapter Overview

The First 20 Hours Summary & Overview

The First 20 Hours (2013) is about learning new skills quickly. These blinks will help you shake off the notion that it’s too late to expand your horizons. Whether you want to master a foreign language or learn how to fly a helicopter, here are ten simple steps for getting started.

Who Should Listen to The First 20 Hours?

  • Dreamers and curious souls
  • Procrastinators
  • Wannabe polyglots

About the Author: Josh Kaufman

Josh Kaufman is an independent researcher on topics such as business, entrepreneurship, productivity and behavioral psychology. He’s been ranked as one of the best business authors by Amazon. His first book, The Personal MBA: Master the Art of Business, was a best seller.

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