Advice for the part of studying nobody puts in the syllabus.

42 reads

Stop Studying Like It's 1995: Building an Evidence-Based Study System

The best study session is not necessarily the one that feels easiest. It is the one that produces the strongest learning.

format_list_numbered Series: Science of Learning (8 of 8)

41 reads

Desirable Difficulties and Growth Mindset: Why Effective Learning Often Feels Uncomfortable

If you've been paying attention, you may have noticed something strange. Nearly every evidence-based learning strategy we've discussed seems to make studying feel more difficult.

format_list_numbered Series: Science of Learning (7 of 8)

45 reads

Generation and Elaboration: Why Explaining Things Makes You Smarter Than Highlighting Them

The generation effect helps explain why answering questions is often more valuable than rereading notes. The learner must actively reconstruct knowledge rather than passively observe it.

format_list_numbered Series: Science of Learning (6 of 8)

46 reads

Interleaving: Why Mixing Topics Can Make You a Stronger Test-Taker

Interleaving helps students practice one of the most important skills in test-taking: deciding what kind of problem is in front of them.

format_list_numbered Series: Science of Learning (5 of 8)

1543 reads

Spaced Repetition: Why the Best Time to Review Is Right Before You Forget

Learning science suggests a better learning strategy: review information at carefully spaced intervals, ideally before it is completely forgotten but after some forgetting has occurred.This technique is known as spaced repetition.

format_list_numbered Series: Science of Learning (4 of 8)

60 reads

Why Forgetting Is Part of Learning

In many cases, forgetting is a normal and essential part of the learning process. In fact, some of the most effective learning occurs precisely when retrieving information feels difficult.

format_list_numbered Series: Science of Learning (3 of 8)

125 reads

Retrieval Practice: The Most Powerful Study Technique Most Students Underuse

Of all the evidence-based learning strategies identified by cognitive science researchers, retrieval practice consistently ranks among the most effective methods for improving long-term retention.

format_list_numbered Series: Science of Learning (2 of 8)

59 reads

The Problem With Familiarity

Many students spend hundreds of hours re-reading notes, textbooks, and review resources because it feels like studying. Unfortunately, decades of cognitive science research suggest that re-reading is one of the least effective ways to build durable learning.

format_list_numbered Series: Science of Learning (1 of 8)

41 reads

Why Every Resident Thinks They're Failing

The secret almost every intern, resident, and even senior resident shares.