Make It Stick
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Make It Stick

Peter C. Brown;Henry L. Roediger III;Mark A. McDaniel

4.51078 learners

Based on decades of cognitive science research, *Make It Stick* dismantles pervasive myths about learning—like the false belief that cramming or repetitive reading builds lasting knowledge. Authors Peter C. Brown and Henry L. Roediger III reveal counterintuitive, evidence-backed strategies that transform how we retain and apply information. From retrieval practice (self-quizzing) and spaced repetition to interleaved learning and embracing 'desirable difficulties,' the book uses real-world examples—from pilots and surgeons to students and athletes—to show how these methods strengthen memory, build flexible mental models, and foster a growth mindset. It also addresses cognitive illusions like the fluency effect and metacognitive biases that lead us to overestimate our knowledge, equipping readers with tools to calibrate their learning and turn effort into lasting expertise.

Growth MindsetMental ModelsRetrieval practiceSpaced practiceInterleaved practice
Concept

Interleaved Practice

Interleaved practice means mixing different types of problems or skills in one practice session, instead of repeating the same single task over and over. It helps you learn to identify different problem patterns.

PracticeLearningSkill Training
Method

Do Interleaved Practice

When practicing math problems or sports skills, do not repeat the exact same type of problem/skill 20 times in a row. Switch between 2-3 different types of problems every few practices to improve your pattern recognition ability.

PracticeLearningSkill Training
Method

Interleaved Practice

Mix practice (e.g., painter works) is hard short-term but helps flexible application long-term.

PracticeFlexibilityLearning Method
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