How We Learn: 8 key ideas
The core ideas of How We Learn, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.
- IDEA 1 OF 8
Common study habits may be wrong
Carey, a science journalist, reviews research on memory and learning.
He argues that many familiar study habits, such as studying in one place and cramming, are less effective than surprising alternatives.
- IDEA 2 OF 8
Forgetting can help memory
Carey explains research showing that some forgetting makes later relearning stronger.
Memory is not like a filing cabinet. In his account, research suggests that letting information fade a little makes the brain work harder when it returns, which strengthens it.
- IDEA 3 OF 8
Spacing beats cramming
Carey describes the spacing effect: studying in sessions spread over time leads to better long-term memory than cramming.
In his account, research suggests that the brain keeps what it meets again after a gap better than what it meets in one burst.
- IDEA 4 OF 8
Testing strengthens memory
Carey describes the testing effect: recalling information through self-testing improves memory more than rereading.
In his account, research suggests that the effort of pulling an answer from memory is itself what makes it stick.
- IDEA 5 OF 8
Mixing topics helps
Carey describes interleaving, mixing different types of problems in practice.
It helps learners tell them apart. In his account, research suggests that this helps the brain pick the right method for each problem, not just repeat one pattern.
- IDEA 6 OF 8
Context affects recall
Carey reports research suggesting that varying where and how one studies can help memory.
In his account, studies suggest that learning the same material in different settings gives the brain more cues to find it later.
- IDEA 7 OF 8
Sleep consolidates learning
Carey describes how sleep helps the brain consolidate memories and skills.
In his account, research suggests that the brain replays and reorganises what it has taken in during rest, so skills and facts become more stable.
- IDEA 8 OF 8
Ideas percolate
Carey describes percolation: leaving a problem and returning later can lead to new insights.
In his account, research suggests that the mind keeps working quietly on an unfinished problem, so a fresh look later can bring a new idea.
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