Great Learners Copy

Charlie Munger once said -

“I believe in the discipline of mastering the best of what other people have figured out.”

One of the best ways to do that? Copy.

How does a bird learn how to fly?

How does a baby learn to walk?

The answer is the same - through copying.

But how do can we use it? Here are 3 easy ways:

1/ Watch & Learn 👀

A great way to copy is by observing people who are experts in the field. By looking at actions, techniques and approaches that masters use - you can learn a lot!

When you start learning something curate your information diet around it. Follow experts in the field - look at their writing, talks, podcasts.
Example: The LxD Starter Toolkit that my friend Harsh Doshi curated for people wanting to get into this space

If you have access to one of these experts around you - ask if you could shadow them for some time. Internships can be a great option too!
Example: This article on Day in the Life of a Design Researcher

2/ Replicate What Works ✅

Analysing what is working for others and trying to replicate what works is another great way to copy to learn.

Look at the best work that exists in the field you’re trying to learn more about - try to copy what works while building something of your own.
Example: Copy your favourite writer’s style while starting with your first few articles

3/ Use a Template 📁

Another great way to learn is to copy successful methods, frameworks, processes. Templates provide a structured framework that you can follow while adapting it to your own needs.

Look at existing frameworks and methods in a field and try to use them to build something of your own.
Example: While learning about design thinking, trying to use the desirability, viability, feasibility framework to see how that works

A note for the copier

It's important to note that while copying can be great for learning, it does not mean blindly replicating things without understanding. Analysis & reflection are the secret sauces here!

Copying can be a great foundation, but you need a healthy dose of critical thinking, experimentation, and the willingness to explore unchartered territories.

The idea should be to build something that is worth copying :)

The famous Leonardo Da Vinci knew a bit about learning - he was a painter, draughtsman, engineer, scientist, theorist, sculptor, and architect. In his words:

“He who can copy can do.”