Retrieval Practice
Strengthen memory by actively recalling information.
Explanation
Reading and highlighting feels productive, but it's mostly an illusion. Real learning happens when you close the book and try to remember what you just read. Each time you force your brain to retrieve information, you strengthen the neural pathways that store that knowledge. The struggle to remember isn't a sign of failure—it's the mechanism of learning.
Real-World Example
Reading notes 5 times: Feels productive, remember 20% after a week. Testing yourself once: Feels hard, remember 60% after a week. Medical students using retrieval practice score 20% higher on boards. Duolingo built $2B company on this principle.
How to Apply
After reading, close the book. Write everything you remember. Check what you missed. Try again tomorrow. Use flashcards for facts. Create practice problems for skills. Teach someone else (ultimate retrieval). Test before you feel ready—struggling is the point.