Our exploration of Make It Stick by Peter C. Brown, Henry L. Roediger III, and Mark A. McDaniel continues to highlight some profound insights into how we truly learn—and how we often get it wrong. One of the most pivotal points from the book is that learning is deeper and more durable when it’s effortful (3). It’s a common misconception that easier learning is better, but the reality is that struggle and challenge are the pathways to mastering new skills and knowledge.
Key Strategies for Learning
The book provides practical strategies that anyone can incorporate into their daily life to enhance learning retention and application:
Active Retrieval Practice: Instead of passively rereading materials, engage in self-quizzing. For example, after studying a topic, test yourself on the key points without looking back at the material. As the authors note, “retrieval strengthens the memory and interrupts forgetting” (3). This simple practice, whether through flashcards or writing down what you remember, helps solidify learning.
Spacing Out Practice: Many of us are tempted to cram before a big exam or presentation, but research shows that spacing out learning is far more effective. While cramming might give the illusion of quick mastery, it fades away just as quickly. As the authors explain, “when you space out practice at a task...retrieval is harder and feels less productive, but the effort produces longer lasting learning” (4). Setting regular intervals between study sessions helps keep the knowledge fresh.
Interleaving Different Subjects: Mixing up topics rather than focusing solely on one area helps to differentiate and deepen your understanding. When learning multiple subjects, such as math and history, switch between them. This process may feel more difficult, but it enhances the ability to apply knowledge in diverse situations.
Embrace Mistakes: Trying to solve problems before being shown the solution is another counterintuitive yet effective strategy. The authors emphasize that making errors while learning leads to better retention, as you actively engage with the material. Embrace the mistakes as they form essential building blocks for future success.
Applying These Strategies to Everyday Life
These techniques aren’t just for students; they can be incorporated into everyday routines for anyone looking to sharpen their memory, master new skills, or even excel in their professional life. Whether you’re learning a new language, mastering a hobby, or tackling a work project, the principles from Make It Stick can be transformative.
Here’s how you can start applying them today:
Create Flashcards: For anything you’re trying to learn, create flashcards and regularly test yourself on them.
Space It Out: Set small chunks of time daily or weekly for learning instead of saving everything for the last minute.
Mix It Up: Try switching between different subjects or skills in the same learning session.
Solve Before Reviewing: Before looking up the solution to a problem, take a moment to work through it on your own.
Incorporating these strategies into your life doesn’t require an overhaul of your routine—just a few tweaks that can lead to lasting mastery.
For more insights, information, or to book an appointment, please visit www.eckertcentre.com and click the appointment button. You can also reach our team in three other convenient ways: 1) complete the submit form on our website; 2) email us at info@eckertpsychology.com; or 3) call and speak to our receptionist every business day at 403-230-2959. Yes, a real human will answer your call .
Works Cited
Brown, Peter C., Henry L. Roediger III, and Mark A. McDaniel. Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning. Belknap Press of Harvard University Press, 2014.
Madison is a Psychology Assistant & Digital Marketing Assistant at Eckert Centre. She's currently deepening her understanding of psychology at the University of British Columbia. Madison brings her passion for mental health to our community through her writing. As our blogger in residence, her contributions offer a fresh perspective and shed light on the importance of mental wellbeing and school psychology. We are grateful for her eloquent words and the insights she shares on her journey towards cultivating a "Wise Self."
