Reading to Forget: A Bayesian Approach to Efficient Reading

A PhD student shares his efficient reading method: He doesn't try to remember all information but views reading as updating Bayesian beliefs, subtly refining his world model with each read. His goal is to stimulate thinking and generate new ideas, not memorize details. He discards most content, focusing on parts that shift his thinking or provide writing material, such as a well-written methodology section in a paper. Non-fiction that doesn't spark new thoughts or actions isn't deemed worthwhile. This approach prioritizes understanding and application over rote memorization.