If you are a visual learner, you understand and remember things by sight. You can picture what you are learning in your head, and you learn best by using methods that are primarily visual.
You often close your eyes to visualize or remember something, and you will find something to watch if you become bored. You are attracted to color and to spoken language (like stories) that is rich in imagery.
You often close your eyes to visualize or remember something, and you will find something to watch if you become bored. You are attracted to color and to spoken language (like stories) that is rich in imagery.
The best study techniques for visual learners
Flashcards / Palm CardsA very useful and popular study tool that suits all types of learners, but most especially visual learners.
Check out this comprehensive Palm Card Guide for great info about creating and using them well + more... You can pick different colours + sizes up from the Library any time! |
Mind MapsCheck out the collection here - use different styles to suit your purposes, e.g.:
> Lotus - group points & evidence (+ hard copies in the Library) > Flow - sequence information > Fishbone - compare arguments Place completed ones around the walls in your study area to build memorisation! |
Pictures & DiagramsWhere possible, represent ideas, sequences, arguments, etc. with images, pictures, colour and other visual media.
Searching Google Images for useful pictures & diagrams can be fantastic for this! Or use tools like Canva... |
Colour Coding & SymbolsGet yourself a good set of highlighters, and use different colours for different things, e.g.:
> Definitions / key terms > Quotes / techniques > Evidence / Examples > Causes / impacts > Different sides of arguments Students can perform up to 10% better when using coloured study materials vs. black and white ones! + Use symbols like arrows to link pieces of information, numbers to sequence them, etc. |
Acronyms / MnemonicsUsing acronyms (also known as mnemonics) are a fantastic way to remember and recall sets of information.
For example, PLACE for the key characteristics of popular cultures (Society & Culture): > P = Products & Paraphernalia > L = Builds from Local to global > A = Has widespread Access > CE = Continuously Changes & Evolves More examples of acronyms in the Palm Card Guide |
Video-based learning
Using videos can be fantastic for visual learners!
> Pre-learn content before class > Get alternative explanations > Revise easily > Practice quizzes + exam questions There's so much available with just a quick search of websites like: > YouTube > ClickView > Edrolo |
Here are some other things that visual learners like you can do to learn as effectively as possible:
Remember that you need to see things, not just hear things, to learn well.
- Sit near the front of the classroom (It won't mean you're the teacher's pet!)
- Take notes during class as writing things down helps you remember information better
- Have your eyesight checked on a regular basis
- Avoid distractions during study times, especially visual distractions like TV
Remember that you need to see things, not just hear things, to learn well.