The secret Elon Musk uses to accelerate learning of any subject is based on decomposing knowledge into basic principles—the "semantic tree" method—and using "first principles thinking" to circumvent traditional, analogy-based reasoning.

He concentrates on constructing a robust, logical base (roots and trunk) before addressing specifics (leaves), and enhances learning through swift, practical experimentation, repeated failures, and rigorous, iterative feedback.

Key Strategies for Faster Learning:

1). First Principles Thinking:

Elon Musk reduces complicated problems to their most fundamental, essential, and indisputable truths rather than using analogies.

Instead of adhering to current, frequently faulty, industry standards, he then develops solutions from the ground up based on these realities.

2). Semantic Tree Method:

Elon Musk compares knowledge to a tree, stressing the importance of comprehending the "trunk and big branches" (basic ideas) before going on to the "leaves" (specifics).

He believes that details have nothing to cling to in the absence of the fundamental ideas.

3). Rapid Failure & Iteration:

His method is centered on making mistakes fast, identifying them right away, and rectifying them more quickly.

Using failure as a data point for quick improvement, he approaches every project as an experiment.

4). Cross-Pollination of Ideas:

Elon Musk is an "expert generalist" who promotes innovation by applying concepts from one field (such as software or physics) to another (such as rockets or energy).

5). Deep Immersion & Expert Consultation:

He reads a lot and looks for professionals in new disciplines so he can "absorb" their knowledge quickly.

Elon Musk is able to master difficult, new fields in a fraction of the typical time by concentrating on these principles rather than repetition.