How Does the Brain Learn?

Did you know that tweaking your study habits just a tiny bit can help you learn better? Well, it is true. The brain learns a certain way, and if you align your study practices with the way the brain learns, you can definitely learn any topic significantly better. So, today, let’s explore study tips that can help you leverage how the brain learns. 

How does the brain learn? 

To put it simply, the brain changes in response to changes in the environment. It is called neuroplasticity. Your brain makes new connections when you learn something new. As you practise what you’ve learned, the connections between neurons in the brain get stronger. So, you become more and more efficient. 

Study tips that leverage how the brain learns 

Here are some study strategies to help you take advantage of how the brain learns and do better at academics. Let’s go!

• Practise recalling information. One of the best ways to strengthen the connections between neurons is by retrieving and recalling information without additional support, rather than simply reading or listening to it repeatedly. You can do this by answering practice questions, using flashcards, telling a friend about what you learnt or solving worksheets again. Do remember to check if you got the answers right. 
• Engage in spaced practice sessions. To minimise the chances of forgetting, it is important to engage in spaced practice sessions that have adequate breaks instead of studying without a break. You can take a 20-minute recess after every hour. It makes the connection between neurons more efficient. 
• Get adequate sleep at night. When you get adequate sleep, your brain reactivates connections that you used during the day and strengthens them as a result. As a result, you may become more efficient at whatever you have been practising. A quick nap in the afternoon may also give you similar benefits. So, never compromise on getting 8 hours of sleep. 

Now that you have understood how the brain learns, you can tweak your study practices accordingly. By incorporating these small things into your daily study routine, you will be able to learn much more efficiently. Though unrelated, note that nutrition also plays an important role in learning, so focus on eating right as well. Good luck!

Did you find this article helpful? Is there anything else you would like to add to this? Do let us know in the comments below. 

Disclaimer: Child-friendly insights on how the brain learns and learning tips; explore referenced material for more details.

Also read, 

• Tips to Learn Effectively in a Short Time
• 4 Eye Exercises To Try During Study Breaks
• 6 Simple Ways To Set Up a Productive Study Space

References:

• https://kids.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/frym.2020.00054 
• https://medicine.llu.edu/academics/resources/brain-based-techniques-retention-information 
• https://www.edutopia.org/article/3-brain-based-strategies-encourage-deeper-thinking/ 
• Image by jcomp on Freepik
• Image by kjpargeter on Freepik