How Learning Style Impacts You

Welcome to “Understanding Your Learning Style”
Unlock Your Academic Potential by Discovering How You Learn Best

Have you ever wondered why some study methods work better for others than for you? That’s because we all process information differently—and understanding your learning style can be a game changer for how effectively you study and retain knowledge.

Let’s break it down: learning styles refer to the way we take in, understand, express, and remember information. While everyone has a bit of each learning style within them, most people have a dominant one that shapes their study preferences. There are four main types: Visual, Auditory, Read/Write, and Kinaesthetic. Here’s a quick guide to each:

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1. Visual Learners: Seeing is Believing

If you grasp information best when it’s presented visually, you’re a visual learner. Charts, diagrams, and symbols are your best friends. Try:

• Replacing words with symbols in your notes.
• Drawing mind maps to show relationships between ideas.
• Color-coding and spatially arranging your notes.

University lectures often lack visuals, so supplement with visual aids whenever possible.

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2. Auditory Learners: Learn by Listening

Do you remember what your professor said more than what was written? You’re likely an auditory learner. To make the most of your style:

• Read your notes aloud or explain them to someone else.
• Join or create study groups for discussion-based learning.
• Record lectures or yourself explaining key ideas.

Hearing the material reinforces your understanding and memory.

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3. Read/Write Learners: The Classic Scholars

If you love lists, note-taking, and textbooks, you probably thrive in traditional academic settings. You’ll benefit from:

• Rewriting and condensing notes in your own words.
• Creating glossaries of course terms.
• Using headings, bullet points, and definitions to organize your material.

This style aligns closely with how most courses are designed—take advantage of it!

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4. Kinaesthetic Learners: Hands-On, Minds-On

You learn by doing. Labs, simulations, and practice exams are where you shine. To make studying more effective:

• Use real-life examples and personal connections to explain concepts.
• Engage multiple senses—walk while reviewing, use flashcards, build models.
• Practice problems and apply theory to practical situations.

Learning through action helps your brain lock in the material.

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Your Style Might Change—and That’s OK!

Learning styles can evolve as you grow academically. It’s helpful to revisit the VARK annually to make sure your study techniques still fit your needs. You may even discover that you’re a multimodal learner, someone who benefits from two or more styles equally.

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Don’t Limit Yourself

Even if you identify with one dominant style, you can borrow techniques from the others. In fact, combining strategies often leads to deeper understanding and better retention.

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It Takes Time to Build New Habits

Adjusting your study methods doesn’t happen overnight. It can feel awkward or time-consuming at first, but with consistency, it becomes second nature. The key is to keep practicing—and don’t give up!

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Understanding how you learn is one of the most empowering steps you can take as a student. So take the time, explore your preferences, and study smarter—not harder.

 

Source: Wilfred Laurier University