Chapter 1: The Early Life of a Genius

Sir Isaac Newton, often hailed as the Father of Modern Physics, is one of history's most influential polymaths. Few individuals have made as significant contributions to the fields of science, particularly physics and mathematics, as he did. Known for his groundbreaking work on the laws of motion, the law of universal gravitation, optics, and calculus, Newton's legacy is immense. What’s even more astonishing is that he developed calculus at just 23 years old, specifically to articulate his theories in physics. However, one might wonder: was he simply a natural-born genius, or did his unique abilities stem from his experiences? Let's delve into the study habits that shaped Newton's remarkable intellect.

Newton’s childhood was far from carefree. His life was marked by numerous hardships and personal tragedies. Abandoned by his mother and stepfather at a young age, he lived with his grandmother until he was eleven. His father had passed away before he was born, adding to the emotional turmoil of his early years. This tumultuous upbringing likely contributed to his preference for solitude and difficulty in social interactions.

The challenges of his early life left a lasting impact, fostering a rather reclusive personality. When Newton's mother returned to care for him, she withdrew him from school to work on the family farm. This experience was not enjoyable for him, yet he dedicated considerable time to it. Eventually, with encouragement from friends and relatives, his mother allowed him to return to his studies.

In 1661, Newton enrolled at Trinity College, Cambridge. By 1664, he had received a scholarship allowing him to continue his education for an additional four years. However, the Bubonic plague struck England that same year, forcing the university to shut down for two years. This interruption led him back to his home in Woolsthorpe, where he entered a period of intense productivity and stress. During this time, he reportedly spent hours studying alone in his room, surrounded by candles, books, and notes. He became so engrossed in his work that he often forgot to eat, dedicating 16 to 18 hours a day to his studies without distractions. It was during these isolating months that he formulated his theory of gravitation, made pivotal discoveries in optics, and invented calculus. Biographer Gale Christianson describes Newton's work habits as pathologically obsessive, with no clear end to his day until sheer exhaustion set in.

In the 1680s, while working on his seminal publication, "Principia Mathematica," Newton's routine was rigorous. According to one of his colleagues, he frequently went to bed at 2 or 3 in the morning, neglecting social gatherings and leisure activities. His singular focus on his work is echoed in a PBS episode featuring Gail Christianson, who noted that Newton labored seven days a week for up to 18 hours daily. He sacrificed personal relationships, likely having no intentions of marrying or starting a family, choosing instead to devote himself entirely to science and mathematics. In our current era, distractions abound, making it challenging to maintain focus. Achieving great things demands extraordinary dedication—a sentiment echoed by Aristotle: “There’s no great genius without the mixture of madness.”

In the video titled "I tried Isaac Newton's insane study routine for a day #shorts," the content explores the extreme dedication and peculiar habits associated with Newton's study methods. This insightful look into his routine provides a glimpse into the life of a man who revolutionized science.

Another video, "Newton's Insane Study Routine 🍎 #physics #science #history #education," further elaborates on the unconventional practices that defined Newton's approach to learning and discovery.

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