Every day, we absorb information — from meetings, books, videos, and hands-on tasks. But have you ever wondered: which method of learning actually works best?
Education researchers have studied this question for decades, and while people have different preferences, science shows clear differences in retention rates depending on how we learn.
The Learning Pyramid: What Science Tells Us
According to research often associated with the National Training Laboratories, the average retention rates look like this:
- Reading: ~10%
- Hearing (lectures, podcasts): ~20%
- Seeing (images, video): ~30%
- Seeing & Hearing (video + audio): ~50%
- Doing (practice, simulations, projects): ~75%
- Teaching Others / Applying Immediately: up to 90%
This suggests that passive learning methods like reading or listening lead to much lower retention than active, experiential learning.
Why Experience Beats Theory
Our brains are wired to remember through practice.
When you code a program, cook a recipe, or speak a new language instead of just reading about it, your brain creates stronger neural pathways.
In short:
👉 We remember what we do.
That’s why companies now invest heavily in hands-on training, workshops, and simulations instead of relying only on lectures or e-learning slides.
Different Learners, Different Strengths
While the pyramid shows averages, individuals still have unique preferences:
- Visual learners thrive with charts, videos, and infographics.
- Auditory learners prefer discussions, podcasts, and lectures.
- Reading/writing learners learn through notes, articles, and textbooks.
- Kinesthetic learners excel when they move, build, or experiment.
The most effective approach in 2025 is blended learning — combining different methods to reinforce knowledge from multiple angles.
Practical Tips to Learn Faster in 2025
- Mix formats → Don’t just read a book. Watch a video, discuss it, and then practice.
- Apply immediately → Use new knowledge in a real project as soon as possible.
- Teach someone else → Explaining forces you to master the concept.
- Reflect and iterate → Experience is powerful when combined with feedback.
Why This Matters for Businesses and Teams
If you’re training employees or teaching clients, don’t rely only on presentations. Instead:
- Add interactive workshops
- Use role-playing or simulations
- Encourage peer teaching
This will not only improve retention but also boost engagement and long-term results.
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- Get in touch for a custom learning solution → https://www.eksneks.com/get-quote