Make It Stick

The Science of Successful Learning

by Peter C. Brown, Mark A. McDaniel, Henry L. Roediger III

4.6(4,310 ratings)

11 min read

Brief overview

This book reveals how learning actually works by focusing on proven strategies that help knowledge stick. You’ll see why certain techniques, like rereading and cramming, can be deceiving and discover more effective approaches to mastering new skills. By shifting your mindset, you can leverage practice, reflection, and resilience to transform the way you learn.

Introduction

Welcome to a fresh look at how learning really happens. This opening glimpse sets the stage for turning everyday study habits on their head. Rather than underlining or cramming, you’ll glimpse why techniques like quizzing yourself, embracing errors, and spacing out your practice help reshape your brain in powerful ways.

You’ll read about real experiences—from a student taking the jump at airborne school to everyday people wrestling with illusions of mastery. It’s not about fancy methods or brains wired differently; it’s about making small changes in how we approach learning that make a big impact on how well knowledge sticks.

Think of this introduction as a wake-up call. Yes, it might feel uncomfortable at first to relearn how to learn. But the rewards are huge: better recall, deeper understanding, and a confidence that stays with you. That’s what this summary aims to deliver—clear, practical insights you can put to use right away.

“Effortful learning changes the brain, building new connections and capability.”

Breaking the Myth of Easy Learning

We often think that if learning feels easy, we must be mastering the material. But research shows a different story: the more actively your brain has to dig in, the more solidly the learning takes hold. Rereading or glazing over notes creates a sense of familiarity that can fool you into thinking you truly understand it.

This sense of familiarity is called an illusion of knowing. When we reread, we recognize ideas we’ve seen before, and we feel confident. But come exam time or real-life application, we can’t retrieve them as we hoped. The brain forms stronger mental connections when forced to retrieve or reconstruct knowledge, rather than just reviewing it passively.

Switching from easy methods to slightly more challenging ones might be uncomfortable at first. Yet discomfort is not the enemy—it’s the signal that your brain is truly working. Embrace this challenge, and in return, you build a durable framework of knowledge you can use long after the details of a single reading fade away.

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What is Make It Stick about?

Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning is a groundbreaking exploration into the art and science of learning. Written by Peter C. Brown, Mark A. McDaniel, and Henry L. Roediger III, this book challenges conventional education practices, urging readers to adopt evidence-based learning strategies that transform how knowledge is acquired and retained. In an age where information is abundant yet fleeting, the book's insights into effective learning techniques hold remarkable relevance, revealing why some methods fall short and others succeed in making information stick.

The authors delve into the research behind learning, illustrating the stark contrast between commonly used approaches, such as repetition and cramming, and more potent but less intuitive strategies like spaced repetition, retrieval practice, and varied applications. By debunking the myth that learning should be easy, they present a compelling case for embracing difficulties as gateways to deep, enduring understanding. Readers will learn to leverage their cognitive capabilities, fostering a growth mindset and harnessing complex practice to instigate genuine intellectual development.

In a time when enhancing personal and professional skills is crucial, "Make It Stick" provides tools for individuals of all ages and backgrounds to rethink their learning processes and adopt more effective, science-backed strategies. Its practical applications extend beyond the classroom, making it an invaluable resource for lifelong learners, instructors, and anyone yearning for deeper, more complete comprehension of their chosen fields.

Review of Make It Stick

"Make It Stick" is a must-read for anyone seeking to enhance their learning strategy. The book excels in blending scientific research with real-life stories, making intricate cognitive principles accessible and engaging. One of its key strengths is the meticulous explanation of how the brain retains information, highlighting the roles of retrieval practice and spaced repetition. By understanding the mechanics of memory, readers can conduct more effective and enduring learning experiences.

Beyond theory, the book offers practical takeaways applicable to students, educators, and professional learners alike. The authors dispel many myths associated with traditional learning techniques and encourage readers to adopt varied, challenging methods to better internalize material. Their accessible, conversational style makes complex scientific ideas palpably graspable. The emphasis on adopting a growth mindset—viewing mistakes as learning opportunities—underscores the book's relevance amid an ever-evolving knowledge landscape.

"Make It Stick" is ideal for those in academia, corporate training, or anyone keen to master a new skill. Its delight in breaking down deeply-held educational misconceptions into actionable, evidence-based advice makes it compelling. Whether your goal is mastering a foreign language, excelling in exams, or acquiring new job skills, the book's wisdom invites thorough reconsideration of conventional study habits. Highly recommended for anyone serious about elevating their learning journey.

By instilling a belief in the potential for cognitive growth, this book not only provides strategies for today but equips readers for the dynamic learning demands of tomorrow.

Who should read Make It Stick?

Students: High school or college students seeking effective ways to retain information for exams or coursework, and aiming to build stronger study habits.
Educators: Teachers and academic professionals looking to incorporate evidence-based learning techniques into their curriculum to benefit student outcomes.
Professionals: Individuals in the workforce eager to acquire new skills or knowledge to advance their careers, including those interested in lifelong learning for personal growth.
Parent-caretakers: Parents or guardians interested in helping their children develop effective learning skills and understanding the educational processes that contribute to successful learning.
Self-learners: Individuals motivated to pursue self-directed learning, who wish to optimize the retention and understanding of material in fields such as languages, arts, or sciences.

About the author

Peter C. Brown is a writer and novelist. Mark A. McDaniel, PhD, and Henry L. Roediger III, PhD, are cognitive scientists with extensive research backgrounds. Together, they co-authored "Make It Stick: The Science of Successful Learning," drawing on their expertise in cognitive psychology to provide effective learning strategies. McDaniel and Roediger have dedicated their careers to mastering memory and learning, with numerous publications and awards in their field.