I’m very similar but I prefer build first learning.
I like to:
- Skim the docs just enough to understand the mental model
- Build a tiny real project immediately
- Break things on purpose
- Only then go back to documentation or deeper guides
That friction tells me what I don’t understand fast.
For fundamentals (like system design or security concepts), I switch styles but more structured learning first, then hands on reinforcement.
I think the real skill is knowing when to explore freely vs. when to follow structure.