Metacognition
Metacognition is the ability to observe, evaluate and regulate one's own cognitive processes.
Definition
Metacognition allows you to notice not only what you think, but also how you think: your strategies, mistakes, assumptions and level of confidence. It is crucial for learning, problem solving and self-reflection. Thanks to it, you can correct the way your mind works, instead of just changing the content of a single thought.
Key ideas
- Observation of your own thinking
- Regulation of cognitive strategy
- Confidence and error assessment
Practice and life
After completing the task, write down: what worked in my way of thinking, where I was wrong and what strategy I will improve next time.
Common misconceptions
It is a mistake to turn metacognition into overanalysis. The goal is better regulation, not endless monitoring of every thought.
> A person matures cognitively when he begins to observe his own thinking.
> — Guru Element
Questions for self-reflection
- What strategy am I thinking about now?
- How do I know that my conclusion is accurate?
- What can I change about the way I learn or make decisions?