How to Find Your Learning Style: A Guide to Maximising Your Study Potential

When it comes to learning, one size definitely does not fit all. We each have unique ways of absorbing, processing and retaining information. Understanding your personal learning style can transform your educational and professional journey, making it more effective and enjoyable. By becoming more aware of the most effective way you learn, you work not just hard but smart.

In this blog, we will explore the four predominant learning styles – visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and reading/writing – and offer tips on identifying and leveraging your dominant style.

Understanding the Four Learning Styles

Visual learners: If you find yourself drawn to images, diagrams, and colour-coded notes, you might be a visual learner. Visual learners absorb information best through visual data and spatial understanding. They prefer to see information in order to process it effectively.
Auditory learners: Do you remember information better when you hear it? If yes, you could be an auditory learner. Auditory learners excel when information is presented in an auditory format, such as speeches, podcasts, or group discussions.
Kinesthetic learners: If you prefer engaging in physical activities, building models, or conducting experiments to understand concepts, you are most likely a kinesthetic learner. Often referred to as tactile learners, are hands-on, kinesthetic learners acquire information best through touch, movement, and physical interaction.
Reading/writing learners: If you excel at taking detailed notes, reading texts, and turning what you’ve learned into essays or reports, you likely align with reading/writing learning This style is for those who prefer information displayed as words.

How do you identify your learning style?

Self-assessment: Pay attention to how you prefer to take in new information. Do you gravitate towards visual aids, or do you prefer listening to a lecture? Perhaps you engage best when you can physically interact with your learning material.
Reflect on past successes: Think about your past learning experiences. When were you most engaged and successful? Identifying these patterns can be a clear indicator of your preferred learning style.
Experiment with different techniques: Try studying with different methods: watch educational videos, listen to podcasts, participate in workshops, or read relevant texts. Notice which method helps you retain information most effectively.
Seek feedback: Sometimes, others can observe things about us that we might miss. Ask teachers, peers, or colleagues for feedback on when they’ve seen you perform your best.

Maximising your learning potential

Enhancing your learning experience depends on your unique learning style. Here are tailored strategies for visual, auditory, kinesthetic, and reading/writing learners to optimise your study efforts and become exam-ready:

Type of Learner	Strategies to Enhance Learning
Visual learners	Use graphs, charts, and diagrams in your notes. Watch videos or look at infographics related to your study topic. Utilise colour coding to organise notes and learning materials.
Auditory learners	Participate in group discussions or study groups. Record lectures and listen to them later. Utilise mnemonic devices and makeup songs or rhymes to help remember information.
Kinesthetic learners	Engage in hands-on activities like building models or conducting experiments. Take frequent short breaks during study sessions to move around. Try role-playing or creating physical models of the concepts you’re learning. Take detailed notes during lectures or while reading. Translate complex concepts into essays and written reports. Read extensively and rewrite your notes to reinforce learning.
Reading/writing learners	Take detailed notes during lectures or while reading. Translate complex concepts into essays and written reports. Read extensively and rewrite your notes to reinforce learning.

Holistic approach to effective study strategies

It’s important to note that while you may have a dominant learning style, most people benefit from a combination of different styles. The key is to understand your primary preference and then supplement it with techniques from other styles, especially when your preferred style isn’t available.

In addition to uncovering the most effective study methods, it’s essential to take into account various factors that can impact your learning experience, including which time of the day you choose to study, your energy levels, external distractions, and personal commitments.

Optimising your learning experience requires a holistic approach that takes into account various external and internal factors that can either support or hinder your educational endeavours.

Embracing your unique learning style at PSB Academy

At PSB Academy, we understand that each student is unique, and we cater to a diverse range of learning styles. Our courses offered in Singapore are designed to provide a mix of lectures, visual presentations, hands-on experiences, and written assessments, ensuring that each student can engage with the material in the way that suits them best.

Whether you’re a visual, auditory, kinesthetic, or reading/writing learner, PSB Academy has the resources and support to help you thrive. Our goal is to provide an educational experience that not only imparts knowledge but also aligns with your individual learning preferences. Explore our range of courses, including bachelor’s degrees and diploma courses, now to get started.