One-page learning method (Aquinas-style seminar)
Goal for every class
Arrive with: (1) the text’s structure, (2) the key definitions/distinctions, (3) 5–8 real questions, (4) 2–6 anchored passages you can point to.
Before class (3-pass reading)
Pass 1 — Orientation (10–15 min)
- Skim headings/section breaks, first & last paragraphs.
- Write 3 lines:
- Aim: what problem the author is addressing.
- Key terms likely central.
- What you expect the conclusion to be.
Pass 2 — Slow read (45–90 min)
Annotate sparsely (PDF or paper) using only:
- D = definition
- ≠ = distinction
- T = thesis/claim
- Q = confusion/question
- Ex = example / test case
Rule: no long summaries while reading. Stay close to the text.
Pass 3 — Synthesis page (15–25 min)
Create one “reading block” in your weekly note:
- Outline: 5–10 bullets tracing the argument
- Key terms: 5–10 items, 1 sentence each
- Theses: 3–5 claims the author makes
- Questions: 5–8 you’d ask in seminar
- Anchors: 2–6 short quotes + location (chapter/paragraph/page)
Notes system (few files, high value)
Use one weekly master note:
- Sections per reading: Aim → Outline → Terms → Theses → Questions → Anchors → After class
- Bottom of the note: “Durable takeaways” (definitions/distinctions that now feel solid)
Your PDF annotations are the fine-grain layer; Obsidian holds the distilled layer.
In class (how to participate)
Make one of these moves when speaking:
- Clarify a definition (“What does X mean here?”)
- Locate the claim (“Where does the text say that?”)
- Offer a test case (example that pressures the distinction)
- State the strongest opposing reading (then ask which the text supports)
In-class notes: write only
- Main thread (1–2 sentences)
- Key passages revisited
- Resolved questions / new questions
After class (same day, 10 minutes)
In the same reading block, fill:
- 3 things now clear
- 2 things still unclear
- 1–3 passages to reread
Within 48 hours (retention loop)
- Reopen the text and reread only the passages that mattered.
- Write a clean “Durable takeaway”:
- 3–7 bullets: definitions/distinctions + one example + one unresolved question.
Weekly mastery practice (30–45 min)
Do one “disputation-lite” on your best question:
- Objections (1–2)
- On the contrary (text anchor)
- I answer that (8–12 sentences)
- Replies (1–2)
Daily micro-habit (5–10 min)
Flashcards (or quick prompts) for key technical terms:
- term → definition + example + non-example
This method optimizes seminar performance and long-term understanding: precision before class, illumination in class, consolidation after class.