Make It Stick by Peter C. Brown

Last updated: Jul 6, 2023

Summary of Make It Stick by Peter C. Brown

Make It Stick by Peter C. Brown is a book that explores the science of learning and provides practical strategies for effective learning and retention. The book challenges traditional study methods and highlights the importance of adopting new techniques that are proven to enhance learning outcomes. The authors emphasize the concept of "desirable difficulties," which refers to the idea that learning is more effective when it requires effort and active engagement. They argue that simply rereading or highlighting information is not enough to truly learn and retain it. Instead, they suggest techniques such as retrieval practice, spacing out study sessions, and interleaving different topics to promote deeper understanding and long-term retention. One key concept discussed in the book is the power of retrieval practice. This involves actively recalling information from memory rather than passively reviewing it. The authors explain that this process strengthens memory and helps to solidify learning. They provide practical tips for implementing retrieval practice, such as using flashcards or self-quizzing, and emphasize the importance of spacing out these practice sessions over time. Another important strategy highlighted in the book is the use of interleaving. This involves mixing up different topics or skills during study sessions, rather than focusing on one topic at a time. The authors argue that this approach helps to enhance learning by forcing the brain to make connections and comparisons between different concepts, leading to deeper understanding and improved retention. The book also delves into the role of feedback in the learning process. The authors stress the importance of receiving timely and specific feedback to identify areas of weakness and guide further learning. They provide examples of effective feedback techniques, such as self-explanation and elaborative interrogation, which encourage learners to reflect on their understanding and fill in gaps in their knowledge. Additionally, the authors discuss the impact of sleep on learning and memory. They explain that sleep plays a crucial role in consolidating information and strengthening memory. They provide evidence-based recommendations for optimizing sleep to enhance learning outcomes. Throughout the book, the authors support their arguments with research findings from cognitive psychology and neuroscience. They also provide numerous real-life examples and case studies to illustrate the effectiveness of the strategies they propose. In conclusion, Make It Stick by Peter C. Brown is a comprehensive guide to effective learning techniques based on scientific research. The book challenges traditional study methods and provides practical strategies for enhancing learning and retention. By adopting the principles of desirable difficulties, retrieval practice, spacing, interleaving, and feedback, readers can improve their learning outcomes and develop more effective study habits.

1. Spaced Repetition

One of the key takeaways from "Make It Stick" is the concept of spaced repetition. This refers to the idea that in order to truly learn and retain information, it is important to review it multiple times over a period of time. Instead of cramming all your studying into one session, spacing out your study sessions allows for better long-term retention. This is because the brain needs time to consolidate and reinforce the information it has learned.

By spacing out your study sessions, you are essentially forcing your brain to work harder to recall the information each time. This repetition strengthens the neural connections associated with that information, making it easier to recall in the future. So, instead of spending hours studying in one sitting, try breaking up your study sessions into shorter, spaced-out sessions over a few days or weeks to maximize your learning and retention.

2. Retrieval Practice

Another important concept discussed in the book is retrieval practice. This involves actively recalling information from memory rather than simply re-reading or reviewing it. Research has shown that actively retrieving information from memory enhances learning and long-term retention.

One effective way to incorporate retrieval practice into your study routine is through the use of flashcards or practice quizzes. By actively recalling information and testing yourself, you are strengthening the neural pathways associated with that information. This makes it easier to retrieve and apply that knowledge in the future. So, instead of passively reviewing your notes or textbooks, try actively testing yourself on the material to improve your learning and retention.

3. Interleaving

Interleaving is a learning technique that involves mixing up different topics or skills during study sessions. Instead of focusing on one topic or skill at a time, interleaving requires you to switch between different subjects or tasks. This may seem counterintuitive, but research has shown that interleaving can actually enhance learning and retention.

When you interleave your study sessions, you are forcing your brain to constantly switch gears and make connections between different topics or skills. This helps to strengthen the neural pathways associated with each subject, making it easier to recall and apply that knowledge in the future. So, instead of studying one subject for an extended period of time, try mixing up your study sessions by interleaving different topics or skills to improve your overall learning and retention.

4. Elaboration

Elaboration is a learning strategy that involves explaining and expanding upon the information you are trying to learn. Instead of simply memorizing facts or concepts, elaboration requires you to think deeply about the material and make connections to your existing knowledge.

By elaborating on the information, you are engaging in a process called "deep processing," which has been shown to enhance learning and retention. This is because deep processing involves actively thinking about and analyzing the material, which strengthens the neural connections associated with that information. So, instead of passively reading or memorizing information, try to actively elaborate on it by explaining it in your own words or making connections to other concepts to improve your understanding and retention.

5. Generation

Generation is a learning strategy that involves actively generating or creating information rather than simply receiving it. This can be done through activities such as summarizing a text, teaching someone else the material, or creating your own examples or analogies.

Research has shown that actively generating information enhances learning and retention. This is because when you actively generate information, you are engaging in a process called "active learning," which requires you to think deeply about the material and make connections to your existing knowledge. This strengthens the neural connections associated with that information, making it easier to recall and apply in the future. So, instead of passively receiving information, try actively generating it through activities such as summarizing, teaching, or creating your own examples to improve your learning and retention.

6. Reflection

Reflection is a powerful learning tool that involves taking the time to think deeply about your learning experiences and the strategies you are using. By reflecting on your learning, you can gain insights into what is working well and what could be improved.

Research has shown that reflection enhances learning and retention. This is because reflection allows you to make connections between new information and your existing knowledge, which strengthens the neural pathways associated with that information. Additionally, reflection helps to solidify your understanding and identify any gaps in your knowledge. So, take the time to reflect on your learning experiences and consider how you can improve your learning strategies to maximize your learning and retention.

7. Mnemonics

Mnemonics are memory aids that help you remember information by associating it with something more memorable or easier to recall. Mnemonics can take many forms, such as acronyms, visual imagery, or rhymes.

Research has shown that mnemonics can be an effective tool for enhancing learning and retention. This is because mnemonics provide a structure or framework for organizing and encoding information in a way that is easier to remember. By associating new information with something familiar or memorable, you are strengthening the neural connections associated with that information, making it easier to recall in the future. So, try using mnemonics to help you remember and recall important information to improve your learning and retention.

8. Sleep and Rest

Sleep and rest are crucial for learning and memory consolidation. Research has shown that sleep plays a vital role in the consolidation of newly learned information, as well as the strengthening of neural connections associated with that information.

When you sleep, your brain processes and consolidates the information you have learned throughout the day. This consolidation process helps to solidify your memories and make them more resistant to forgetting. Additionally, getting enough rest and avoiding fatigue is important for optimal cognitive functioning and learning. So, make sure to prioritize sleep and rest as part of your learning routine to maximize your learning and retention.