I am trying to employ the random practice method, but I have a question - How different do the ‘random’ bits have to be? For example, I have been practicing acsending 6s, 12s and 18s from the 2WPS primer. Essentially, these are based on the repetition of the same chunk across sets of strings. Are they too similar to be considered fodder for the random practice method? They feel a little different due to the string tracking element, but would it be better to practice completely different licks/techniques?
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Personally I’ve found that concentrating on one exercise works best for me. Start with the simplest exercise you want to master and when you’ve got it down go to the next one. In this case the 6s exercise. The 12s and 18s exercises are the 6s exercise repeating on new sets of strings. So once you have the 6s nailed it’s only a matter of getting used to moving the 6s pattern to new strings or even up and down the neck.
In my experience after you have one exercise down each one after gets easier and easier. With CTC I started with the Gilbert 6s pattern. It took me a month or so to master. Ascending 6s was a few weeks. Now I’m down to a couple of days to nail an exercise or lick. Of course you want to practice other things in your session but it’s getting the time in on one exercise or lick that makes a big difference.
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Thanks for the response! I see where you are coming from with getting the basic chunk down as a foundation - it will definitely act as a springboard. As for the random practice, I think I’ll try substitute the 12s and 18s for something else (maybe a legato or sweep for variety).