I don't mean to say that people use the micro-steps all the time. What I mean is that, on initially learning something, those that "get" it subconsciously break

I don't mean to say that people use the micro-steps all the time. What I mean is that, on initially learning something, those that "get" it subconsciously break it down into micro-steps that are just small enough for them. This builds the bridge from what they know to what they're learning. Once the abstraction or technique makes sense, then you apply it as a whole on further usage. I think one of the main things that separates the quick learners from the slow learners is how much breaking steps into micro-steps can be done unconsciously. The data lends weight to this. Teaching a concept in micro-steps doesn't help the smartest people learn it better, but it brings the slow learners up to speed. The difference is how small the steps have to be for the students' unconscious to make the connections and thus reach "understanding".