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. Andrew's New Book Protocols: An Operating Manual for the Human Body: https://protocolsbook.com Thank you to our sponsors AG1: https://drinkag1.com/huberman  Eight Sleep: https://eightsleep.com/huberman  BetterHelp: https://betterhelp.com/huberman  Waking Up: https://wakingup.com/huberman  LMNT: https://drinklmnt.com/huberman  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 01:39:10 Zero-Cost Support, YouTube, Spotify & Apple Follow & Reviews, Sponsors, YouTube Feedback, Protocols Book, Social Media, Neural Network Newsletter Disclaimer