One idea going back to Aristotle is that our minds have two aspects in the way we understand the world: We use logical reasoning but we also find patterns which we recognise.
This double aspect of the mind has been studied by philosophers from Aristotle to David Hume. I would like to say, “and continued to the present day”. But really, if we want to know more on this matter, we need look no further than David Hume.
In short, he tells us logic is slow and reliable whilst patterns are quick but risky!
Which brings us back to learning maths and science. A weak pattern can tell us a particular formula exists as a fraction but not necessarily which way up it should be.
There is no easy answer to learning formulae, or indeed grammar, vocabulary or British prime ministers. But if it feels worth your while, just write them down on a piece of paper as a numbered list and learn them. I do this whilst out jogging!!
