Optimal Protocols for Studying & Learning

In this episode, I discuss science-supported protocols to optimize your depth and rate of learning of material and skills. I explain the neurobiology of learning and neuroplasticity and how correctly timed, self-directed test-taking can be leveraged to improve learning and prevent forgetting.

I discuss the study habits of the most successful learners, ways to limit distractions, how to set study goals, and how tests can be used as tools to learn, not just as a means for evaluating one’s mastery of learned material. A surprising aspect of tests, specifically self-testing soon after exposure to new material, is that they can significantly improve your ability to learn, apply, and maintain new knowledge. I also discuss tools to improve focus and alertness while studying.

By the end of this episode, you will have learned various science-supported actionable tools you can use to better learn, remember, and apply new information.

Access the full show notes, including referenced articles, books, people mentioned, and additional resources at hubermanlab.com.

Thank you to our sponsors

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Timestamps

00:00:00 Improve Studying & Learning

00:02:11 Sponsors: Eight Sleep, BetterHelp & Waking Up

00:06:45 Offsetting Forgetting

00:08:22 Learning & Neuroplasticity

00:13:06 Periodic Testing

00:16:09 Focus & Alertness, Sleep, Tool: Active Engagement

00:21:37 Tool: Improve Focus, Mindfulness Meditation, Perception Exercise

00:24:38 Sleep & Neuroplasticity, Tool: Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR)

00:28:29 Tools: Study Habits of Successful Students

00:36:21 Sponsor: AG1

00:37:33 Studying & Aspiration Goals; Challenging Material

00:42:54 Tool: Testing as a Learning Tool

00:48:23 Self-Testing, Repeated Testing

00:55:29 Testing Yourself & Knowledge Gaps

01:01:11 Sponsor: LMNT

01:02:23 New Material & Self-Test Timing

01:07:21 Familiarity vs Mastery

01:10:55 Self-Testing & Offsetting Forgetting

01:15:53 Best Type of Self-Tests; Phone & Post-Learning Distractions

01:22:03 Tool: Gap Effects; Testing as Studying vs. Evaluation

01:25:40 Tool: Emotion & Learning, PTSD, Deliberate Cold Exposure, Caffeine

01:33:28 Tool: Interleaving Information; Unskilled, Mastery & Virtuosity