gabrielmoreira 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