Learning Strategies Examples: The Ultimate Guide for Every Struggler

Hey there, struggler! If you’re reading this, I know you’re someone who values growth. You’re not just here to skim through a list of learning strategies examples—you want something more. You want a transformation, an approach that makes learning feel natural, effective, and dare I say, enjoyable? You’re in the right place.

Today, I’m going to take you deep into the world of learning strategies. But not just any strategies—those that I’ve tested, struggled with, and refined. Because let’s be honest, learning isn’t always easy. But it’s worth it. And by the end of this post, I promise you’ll walk away with powerful techniques to learn smarter, not harder.

The Reality of Learning: It’s Not a Straight Line

Before we dive into specific learning strategies examples, let’s address the elephant in the room: learning is messy. It’s frustrating. Some days, your brain feels like a sponge, absorbing everything. Other days, it’s like trying to pour water into a rock.

I’ve been there. I’m still there sometimes. But what makes the difference is having the right strategies to navigate those moments of doubt. So let’s break it down.

Active Recall: Train Your Brain Like a Muscle

Most strugglers (myself included) were raised on passive learning: reading, highlighting, and rereading. But science says that’s inefficient. Enter Active Recall. Instead of just consuming information, you force yourself to retrieve it.

How to use it:

• After reading a chapter, close the book and try to recall key ideas.
• Use flashcards (Anki or Quizlet) to test yourself.
• Teach what you learned to someone else—even if it’s just your mirror.

I used Active Recall for my English exam prep, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer. Instead of feeling lost in a sea of words, I could actually remember what mattered.

The Feynman Technique: If You Can’t Teach It, You Don’t Know It

Ever noticed that when you explain something to a friend, it suddenly makes more sense? That’s the Feynman Technique at work.

How to use it:

• Choose a concept you want to learn.
• Explain it in simple terms, as if you’re teaching a 5-year-old.
• Identify gaps in your understanding and revisit the material.
• Refine your explanation until it’s crystal clear.

This technique saved me while learning AI. Every time I got stuck, I’d grab a piece of paper and try to explain it like I was talking to a kid. Suddenly, complex ideas became digestible.

Spaced Repetition: Stop Cramming, Start Retaining

Cramming is a liar. It makes you feel like you’ve learned something, but a week later, it’s gone. Spaced Repetition ensures information stays in your brain long-term.

How to use it:

• Use apps like Anki to review information at strategic intervals.
• Instead of studying for hours in one go, break it into shorter, spaced-out sessions.
• Revise key concepts every few days, then weekly, then monthly.

This is how I’ve been tackling German. Instead of stuffing vocabulary into my brain in one night, I let it settle over time. And guess what? It actually sticks.

Interleaving: Mix It Up for Better Mastery

Focusing on one skill or topic for hours sounds productive, but it’s not the best way to learn. Interleaving means switching between related skills to improve retention and adaptability.

How to use it:

• If you’re studying math, mix algebra with geometry instead of doing one at a time.
• Learning a language? Alternate between vocabulary, grammar, and listening exercises.
• Practicing a sport? Don’t just shoot hoops—mix dribbling, passing, and defense.

I started applying this to my gym workouts, and suddenly, I wasn’t just lifting weights mindlessly—I was becoming a well-rounded athlete.

Mind Mapping: Visualize Your Knowledge

If you’re a visual learner, mind maps will be your best friend. This method helps connect ideas and see the big picture.

How to use it:

• Take a blank page and write the main topic in the center.
• Branch out with subtopics, using colors and images.
• Draw connections between related ideas.

I use mind maps when brainstorming for my blog. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, I see everything laid out clearly.

Books to Deepen Your Learning Journey

If you’re serious about mastering learning, here are some books that will take you even further:

• "Make It Stick" – Peter C. Brown (Perfect if you want to understand the science behind learning.)
• "The Art of Learning" – Josh Waitzkin (A deep dive into mastering any skill.)
• "Ultralearning" – Scott H. Young (Teaches you how to learn anything quickly.)

Final Words for My Fellow Strugglers

Struggler, I know that the journey of learning is tough. Some days you’ll feel like you’re making no progress. But remember, growth happens in the struggle.

You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to be persistent.

So pick one strategy today. Just one. Test it, tweak it, and make it yours. And if you ever feel lost, come back here. We’re in this together.

Stay strong, stay curious, and keep struggling forward. Your future self will thank you.