The Manual- A Guide to the Ultimate Study Method (Usm) [ペーパーバック]

The Manual is an attempt to distil the last 2000 years of human learning and discovery into a simple system that uses the principles that have scientifically been shown work. Some of the techniques have existed for millennia while other techniques have been developed by the author, though Rod Bremer's most significant contribution is in his design of a simple 5 step approach that brings all the techniques together forming what he calls "The Ultimate Study Method".

The book is organised in a specific order, where earlier techniques are used in the learning of the next techniques. The book is split into 5 parts, each focusing on a specific portion of the system. Each part of the book is organised as follows:

Introduction- the technique is introduced with the motivation and aims for using it

Scientific Evidence- the latest scientific evidence is discussed in detail, drawing conclusions about the optimal implementation of the technique.
Techniques- the relevant techniques are discussed in great detail with very simple and clear instructions on how to implement them in daily life.

Training- A specific training schedule is presented as well as instructions for measuring progress. The measurement of progress appears to be a strong theme in this book, it is an important tool to prove to the reader that the system really works as well as a tool to identify which individual techniques are more suitable for the reader's character.

Summary and Revision-Map- each section ends with a brief summary of the key principle as well as a revision map

The 5 parts of the book are as follows:

Part 1- Concentration: This section focuses on how to develop the ability to control the mind, focus the attention completely and how to block away any distractions. The techniques used here also teach the reader how to enter deeper and more relaxing levels of mind for any purpose they may have.

Part 2-Memory: This section introduces memory techniques that are simple and fun to use and can be applied by anyone to dramatically improve the ability to remember any type of information. I have read books on this topic before but this is by far the most complete approach I have ever seen, with some techniques that I have not come across before. Most significant though, is the section that explains the underlying principles of every memory technique and so how these principles can be applied to memorize any type of material. The other significant section here is the one regarding long term memory. Other books on the topic of memory seem to gloss over this point, however the manual includes scientifically researched techniques that ensure long term recall.

Part 3- Speed reading: This section introduces the speed reading method. A great deal of focus is put on debunking myths and clearly specifying what can be achieved using a very specific training schedule.

Part 4- The Ultimate Study Method: This section combines all the techniques discussed in the book and combines them into a simple 5 step procedure that allows the user to study any topic incredibly fast while maintaining long term recall of the information. I have tested this system on several subject types and found I was able to learn the subject substantially faster than before and with amazing recall months later.

Part 5- Mental Arithmetic- this section is separate from the rest in that it is not included in the Ultimate study method 5-step procedure. The aim of this section is to teach the user to perform arithmetic in the mind, at speeds that would match the time it takes to input the data into a calculator. The motivation behind this section is not really to amaze people you meet, but in fact, the techniques introduced rely on scientific evidence that points to improved mathematical abilities of individuals that regularly use them.

At least in my opinion, this is by far the most complete and effective book on learning. The explanations are clear, there is no marketing BS or exaggerations, the scientific method is used to verify the effectiveness of the techniques and the procedure is simple and fun to use. Most importantly, the results are remarkable.

It is the first time that I order a printed book after already having it on kindle. It is simply too important a book to have, and it is easier to use when in printed form. The contents being identical, I paste here my previous review for the kindle version, that lacks slightly in reader-friendliness. Kudos to Mr. Bremer.
I have read many books on the topic of speed-reading, memory improvement, mental math and better studying. This book is by far the most complete, covering all subjects in depth. This book is very different from all I have read to date. It does not make extravagant claims or promise you will get results without arduous training. The text is serious and detailed, provides techniques that work and many examples. This is more a college text book in its scope and seriousness than the usual popular over-promising books. The most interesting thing, I found, is how all techniques are bundled together in a comprehensive learning method encompassing all. This is a must read book for students and knowledge enthusiasts. I cannot recommend it more.

I bought The Manual for my teenage grandson, in the hope that the techniques would help him improve his grades or at least provide some inspiration and maybe stimulate the desire to learn. The results were astonishing! Within a few weeks his reading speed increased, he was able to remember technical facts and figures after only seeing them once. His ability to concentrate also improved and several weeks later his grades have metamorphosed from the usual ominous D to the granny-proud A, o. The most interesting thing that occurred is that all of a sudden he developed an interest in learning, I think it is because of the self enforcing virtuous cycle he entered, where positive results motivated more focus to gain even better results. Seeing the effects, I decided to read The Manual myself, when I finished there was one dominating thought in my mind: ¡§WHY DO THEY NOT TEACH THIS AT SCHOOL?¡¨. I now use the memory techniques regularly and am able to remember information in ways I never dreamed possible, especially not at my age. I also use the mental arithmetic techniques to keep my mind sharp, I can perform calculations in my mind that those 20 years younger than myself could never believe possible without the aid of a calculator. The system is simple and effective... they really should teach this at school or college.