When I first began studying logic, it seemed like all of the content was just too much for my brain to take in. After all, everything in logic builds on prior knowledge. So if you don't understand one concept, it's very likely you'll struggle to understand everything else. Over time, however, I learned a few approaches which proved to be very effective in helping me understand complex logical concepts. While I can't guarantee that the following 4 approaches will be as effective for you, I can say that I have been able to perform increasingly well on logic-related exams as a result of using them (even when I choose to procrastinate). Simply keep reading to learn more!
1. Don't just read it, talk through it!
If you're even slightly new to the concept of logic, then you probably think it's something that only the world's greatest philosophers can understand. Perhaps that's because it looked exactly like this when you first encountered it:
All B are C
All A are B
Therefore, all A are C.
OR
All cats are trees
All dogs are cats
Therefore, all dogs are trees.
Even though you've already read through these examples, you're probably still very confused as to why they even make any sense at all. Well, first of all, my professor's lecture notes are missing. Secondly, take a moment to really think about how fast you actually read through them. My guess is pretty quickly.
That is why, when it comes to logic, one of the most effective approaches you can take is to actually talk through the concepts as you learn them. Make sure to do this slowly and listen to yourself as you speak. Within a few minutes, you'll likely experience a "light bulb moment" when these scenarios (and your professor's supplemental lecture notes) actually make sense. If not, just keep reading and speaking everything aloud to yourself until everything finally clicks.
Why not try this approach on the examples above and see if it actually makes a difference?
2. Color-code every new concept and use flash cards to check your understanding.
Once the concepts start making sense to you, you'll need to make sure they're literally ingrained into your brain. One of my favorite (and most effective) ways to do this is to color-code every new concept and use flash cards to check my understanding. Here's an example of one of the cards I made with Chegg's Flashcards app just a few days ago:
FRONT:
BACK:
Notice how each new command/concept is written in a vibrant color that's different from that of the previous concept. I also chose to capitalize certain words to emphasize key concepts (which helps A TON when it comes to remembering them on the spot during exams). Color-coding also helps my brain to remember concepts in chronological order (if necessary).
3. Use numbers when applicable.
This is especially helpful when a problem requires more than 2 steps or concepts to figure out, such as:
"Determine which rules are broken in the following categorical syllogisms:"
Let's say there are a total of 5 rules which could be broken, but your issue lies in actually having to remember what those rules are.
Here's the exact flash card I created with the same app to help me remember BOTH of those ideas:
FRONT:
BACK:
The front of the card indicates that there are a total of 5 rules to remember when it comes to categorical syllogisms, whereas the back of the card lists out all 5 of those rules in different colors.
This is so I can quickly recount the differences that exist for each rule even when I don't have the card to look at.
4. Study for your exam at the last minute (seriously).
I don't blame you for thinking I'm crazy to recommend this. After all, logic is confusing enough as it is, so why on earth would it be a good idea to study for your exam at the last minute? The truth is, while procrastinating is something you should definitely refrain from, it's also something that makes you determined to grasp complex concepts as quickly as possible out of fear that you'll most likely end up failing if you don't.
Procrastinating to study might also be good for you because, as my mom says, "the concepts are fresh in your mind." Consider doing this at your own risk, as it may or may not work for you.
So, now that you've learned my secrets to understanding logic, it's time to put them into action! As someone who's always been utterly terrified of the subject, I can honestly say that these approaches have helped to make it one of my absolute favorites.Try them for yourself, and perhaps you too will develop a strong passion for the subject you used to find most intimidating.