So you were priming - getting a general idea on the topic so you can build onto the scaffolding of your prior knowledge And then you were expanding beyond what was required for class You had a good mindset that was not afraid of failure, but asked for help when you needed it as well You taught your topic and was able to simplify it which showed true understanding Don't cram! Pretty much all of your tips are supported by learning science ❤ (I also don't believe in crystals, but I do believe in the placebo effect... Or gaslighting yourself as you called it 😂- there's a reason why medical trials are tested with a placebo control and not just not taking the meds or whatever)