Learning Science#

Evidence-based techniques that make learning stick.

Core Techniques#

1. Active Recall#

What: Test yourself instead of re-reading. Why: Retrieving information strengthens neural pathways.

Instead of re-reading notes → Close the book and summarize from memory.

2. Spaced Repetition#

Review	Timing
First	1 day
Second	3 days
Third	1 week
Fourth	2 weeks
Fifth	1 month

Tool: Anki or any spaced repetition app.

3. Interleaving#

What: Mix different topics in one study session. Why: Forces brain to discriminate between concepts.

Instead of "Chapter 1 problems all day" → Mix Chapter 1, 2, and 3 problems.

4. Dual Coding#

What: Combine words and visuals. Why: Two mental representations = stronger memory.

Draw diagrams, mind maps, flowcharts — not just text notes.

5. Elaboration#

What: Explain concepts in your own words with examples. Why: Deeper processing creates richer memory traces.

"How would I explain this to a 10-year-old? What's a real-world example?"

Study Session Structure#

Pomodoro + Active Recall#

25 min focused study (active recall, no passive reading)
5 min break (stand, stretch, hydrate)
25 min active practice (problems, self-test)
5 min break
25 min review/spaced repetition

Metacognition#

Before studying: What do I already know? What's my goal?
During: Am I understanding this? Should I re-read or practice?
After: What worked? What was confusing? What should I review tomorrow?

Common Myths#

❌ Learning styles (visual/auditory/kinesthetic) are not supported by evidence ❌ Highlighting and re-reading are low-utility techniques ❌ Multitasking impairs learning — single-task ✅ Struggle is part of learning — desirable difficulties

Learning Science