Robert Smith provides both a theory of learning how to learn and practical guidelines for the application of the theory in a variety of settings.

Part 1: theoretical bases; a concept with important implications; the adult as learner; learning style. Part 2: developing learning skills understandings; getting started; self-directed learning; carrying out personal learning projects; learning collaboratively; learning through educational institutions; some alternative ways of learning. Part 3: providing training - helping others learn how to learn; guidelines for training; training designs and activities.