Effective study habits for different learning styles

Do you know your learning style?

Understanding your learning style can significantly boost your study effectiveness. All of us process information differently, so it is important to tailor your study habits to suit your own unique learning style to maximise information retention, comprehension, and overall academic performance.

Here are some effective study habits for the different learning styles - visual, auditory, and kinaesthetic.

Visual learners

Visual learners comprehend information best when it is presented in a visual format. They often think in pictures and prefer using images, diagrams, and charts to understand new concepts.

Study habits for visual learners:

Use diagrams and charts Convert textual information into flowcharts, diagrams, or mind maps. This helps in visualising the relationship between concepts.

Color coding Highlight key points in different colours. This makes it easier to organise and recall information. But be sure not to highlight everything you read. I've seen students do that and really, what's the point of doing so?

Visual aids

Utilise videos, infographics, and other visual materials to supplement your reading. (or simply just watch my Tiktoks)

Auditory learners

Auditory learners grasp information more effectively through listening. They benefit from discussions, lectures, and verbal explanations.

Study habits for visual learners:

Record your classes If possible, record your classes and listen to them again during study sessions.

Read aloud Read your notes or textbooks aloud to help yourself listen to the information.

Group study Study in groups where you can discuss and explain concepts to others. Teaching the material out loud solidifies your understanding. (read my post on the Feynman technique)

Use mnemonics and rhymes Create mnemonic devices, acronyms and rhymes to remember complex information. This can be particularly helpful for subjects like biology.

Kinaesthetic learners

Kinaesthetic learners prefer a hands-on approach to learning. They often need to move and engage physically with the material to understand it fully.

Study habits for kinaesthetic learners:

Hands-on activities Engage in experiments, build models, or use physical objects to study.

Movement during study

Incorporate movement into your study routine. Walking around while reading notes or using a standing desk can help maintain focus.

Interactive learning

Use interactive resources like educational apps, simulations, and online labs. Websites like PhET Interactive Simulations can be useful.

Combining learning styles

Most people do not fit perfectly into a single learning style. You may need to combine strategies from different learning styles to create a study plan that suit you. For example, you might want to watch a video on a new concept (visual), discuss it with a friend (auditory), and then apply it through a hands-on project (kinaesthetic).

Is your current study habit effective for your learning style?

Understanding and leveraging your learning style can transform your study habits and academic performance. By tailoring your study techniques to match your preferred learning style, you can make your study sessions more effective and enjoyable.

Remember, the key is to be flexible and willing to experiment with different methods to find what works best for you.