[the__alchemist]

Diving into the deep end on projects, with a practical or interesting goal in mind. Along the way, pick up the needed skills, reference papers, tutorials, etc. Take an online class if it seems that would help. Ask for help when required.

I find that when taking classes, reading papers, articles etc, I learn far better if I can #1: Immediately see where the material is useful due to having encountered a problem it solves, and #2: Immediately put relevant information into code/CAD/notes etc.

[globular-toast]

This is what came to mind for me too. I basically never really know what I'm doing. Always doing something slightly beyond my current skill set. Learning speculatively has never worked well for me.