I've found that fixing it brings the most knowledge with it. Install Arch Linux as your main OS, and get it to work.

Most people won't agree with me on the technique, but it's how I learned Linux.

Yep, can't agree. Try Gentoo instead.

Also: http://samrowe.com/wordpress/advancing-in-the-bash-shell/ blew my mind.

Practically speaking: experience.

Peter Norvig's advice: http://norvig.com/21-days.html