Learning something new can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re short on time. But don’t worry, these 10 mind tricks will help you learn faster and more effectively. Let’s dive into these simple yet powerful strategies!
1. The Sleep Sandwich
Ever heard of the “sleep sandwich”? If you have an important presentation and only one day to prepare, this method will help you remember more in less time. Most people try cramming all night, but did you know that after hours of studying, they forget about 50% of what they learned?
That’s because the brain needs time to store new information. All-night cram sessions don’t allow this to happen. Instead, break your study session into two parts—study, sleep, then study again. Sleep allows your brain to transfer knowledge to long-term memory, making it easier to recall later. Next time, study for a few hours, get a good night’s sleep, and review your notes in the morning. Trust me, you’ll learn faster and remember more.
2. Mastery Through Modification
Learning something new can sometimes trick you into thinking you’ve mastered it. You practice for a few hours, and suddenly, it feels too easy. This is called the “illusion of mastery.” So, how do you really master a skill?
Make small changes to your routine. For example, if you’re learning to draw faces, try sketching from different angles or using a different tool. Modifying your approach challenges your brain and stops things from becoming too repetitive. It’s how you keep improving while avoiding overconfidence.
3. Weaving Subjects
In 2008, a group of researchers discovered an interesting learning trick. They found that when you mix subjects or styles, you learn faster. For instance, in their study, participants had to identify artists based on paintings. One group saw the paintings in blocks, while the other saw them scrambled together. The scrambled group performed better! By weaving subjects, your brain connects the dots and remembers things more easily.
4. Chewing Gum for Focus
Chewing gum isn’t just for fresh breath—it can help you learn faster too! Studies show that chewing gum keeps you alert, reduces stress, and lengthens your attention span. It also helps you stay calm and focused during stressful situations, like exams. So, the next time you’re studying, pop in a stick of gum to stay sharp!
5. Intellectual Hydration
Did you know a simple glass of water can boost your brainpower? A study in 2012 showed that students who drank water during exams scored up to 10% higher. Staying hydrated improves your ability to learn, store new memories, and solve problems. So, grab a drink whenever you sit down to study—it helps your brain function at its best.
6. Multiple Mediums
Do you always use the same study method? If so, it might be time to mix things up! Using multiple mediums, like flashcards, diagrams, or speaking out loud, activates different parts of your brain. This leads to better understanding and memory retention. So, blend different techniques for a faster learning experience.
7. Speed Reading
The average person reads about 200 words per minute. But with practice, you can boost this to 700 or even 1,000 words per minute! Speed reading helps you absorb information faster, and you’ll fly through textbooks, articles, and assignments in no time. The key is practice, and soon enough, you’ll be able to read more in less time.
8. Musical Stress Relief
Does music help you study? For many people, it boosts concentration and reduces stress. Studies show that music can make your brain more receptive to new information while improving memory. Plus, it reduces anxiety, helping you stay calm and perform better. Whether you’re studying for an exam or reading a book, try putting on some calming tunes to help you stay productive.
9. Practice in Pieces
When you try to learn everything in one go, you tend to forget most of it. That’s because our brains aren’t designed to store large amounts of information at once. Instead, break your learning into smaller chunks. Spend a little time each day studying different parts of a topic. This helps your brain process information better and increases long-term retention.
10. The Hard Road
Sometimes, taking the harder path leads to better results. For example, handwriting notes is slower than typing, but studies show it helps you remember information better. The extra effort strengthens your understanding and memory, even if it feels like it takes longer. Don’t always look for shortcuts—embrace the challenge for deeper learning.
Final Thought
Learning doesn’t have to be difficult or time-consuming. With these mind tricks, you can speed up the process and improve your retention. Whether you’re chewing gum, staying hydrated, or taking the hard road, these small changes can make a big difference. So, try them out, and see how much faster you can learn!