What are learning strategies?

Learning strategies are deliberately chosen methods to help understand, retain and apply knowledge in new situations.

Choosing an approach

Repeated reading may create familiarity; explaining material without looking reveals gaps. Spaced study, self-testing, linking ideas and examining worked examples suit different tasks. A novice may first need explicit explanations and examples, while an experienced learner can tackle more independent problems. The goal, material and prior knowledge determine which approach fits.

Monitoring progress

Setting a goal before study, noting confusion during it and briefly reviewing afterwards make the approach deliberate. Wrong answers can guide the next session. Effects should be assessed by later recall and application, not just how easy study feels in the moment. EEF emphasizes careful classroom application of cognitive-science-informed techniques.