Write It Down - Study Tip #3
Writing is one of the most effective tools for studying. It helps you engage actively with the material, improves memory retention, and clarifies complex ideas. Let’s explore why writing works and how to use it to study smarter.
When I study, I always try to write notes, highlight important topics, or solve mathematical problems on paper. This approach helps me memorize concepts more effectively. Another reason is that I enjoy using pen and pencil for note-taking and problem-solving instead of relying on Excel or a tablet. Perhaps I’m a bit old-fashioned, and those of you who prefer tablets and computers for learning might not understand me.
However, there are undeniable benefits to writing notes and working on paper. In this post, I’ll explore why writing can enhance your study process. I’ll also discuss the differences between handwriting and typing, and, in the end, I’ll share some practical tips to maximize the benefits of writing while studying.
Why Writing Improves Learning
Writing is not just a way to record information; it’s a cognitive exercise that enhances understanding. When you write, your brain actively processes the material, connecting new information with what you already know. Studies show that writing engages multiple senses and strengthens neural pathways, making remembering what you’ve learned easier.
Moreover, writing forces you to organize your thoughts. When you rephrase complex concepts in your own words, you identify gaps in your understanding and refine your knowledge. It’s an active process that transforms passive listening or reading into meaningful learning.
This natural engagement leads us to an important question: does it matter how you write? Let’s explore the difference between handwriting and typing.
Handwriting vs. Typing
While both handwriting and typing have their merits, research suggests handwriting has a clear edge for learning. The physical act of writing by hand slows you down, encouraging deeper processing of the material. This “slowing down” effect helps you better understand and remember key points.
On the other hand, typing is faster and more efficient for capturing large amounts of information, but it often leads to verbatim copying without much thought. If your goal is to truly learn, rather than just record, handwriting can be a more effective choice.
That said, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. You might handwrite for comprehension and use typing for speed when creating summaries or collaborating digitally. Now that we’ve covered why and how you write, let’s explore how to maximize its impact.
Maximizing the Benefits of Writing
To make the most of writing as a learning tool, start by summarizing ideas in your own words. Avoid copying word-for-word, as this doesn’t engage your brain as deeply. Instead, focus on paraphrasing key concepts and distilling complex information into simpler terms.
Visual elements like mind maps, diagrams, or color-coded notes can also enhance understanding. For example, using different colors for headings, key terms, and definitions can make your notes easier to review later.
Finally, review your notes regularly. Revisiting what you’ve written strengthens memory over time and gives you a chance to refine or expand on your understanding. Writing isn’t just about recording what you hear or read; it’s about creating a personal study resource that evolves with your learning.
Conclusion
Writing turns passive learning into active engagement. Whether it’s through summaries, diagrams, or detailed notes, putting pen to paper helps you retain and understand information more effectively. Start writing—it’s a small change with significant results.
I hope you enjoyed reading about how writing can enhance your study process. Are you the type of student who learns best by writing, typing, or simply reading? Share your thoughts in the comments or reach out to me if you found this topic particularly interesting.
I’ve included three links to further reading on studies about writing, brain activity, and learning at the bottom of this post.
Due to the holiday season, there will be only one blog post this and next week. Starting in January, the schedule will return to two posts per week—one on Monday and one on Wednesday.
And to everyone reading this post to the end, Merry Christmas! 🎄
Why Writing by Hand Is Better for Memory and Learning by Scientific American - https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/why-writing-by-hand-is-better-for-memory-and-learning/
The Cognitive Benefits Of Handwriting: How It Boosts Memory And Learning by Dr. Betty Edward - https://www.drawright.com/blog/2024/2/23/the-cognitive-benefits-of-handwriting-how-it-boosts-memory-and-learning
A Study of Japanese University Students on Writing On Paper and Brain Activity - https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/03/210319080820.htm