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Learning How to Learn: Powerful mental tools to help you master tough subjects

This course gives you easy access to the invaluable learning techniques used by experts in art, music, literature, math, science, sports, and many other disciplines. We’ll learn about how the brain uses two very different learning modes and how it encapsulates (“chunks”) information. We’ll also cover illusions of learning, memory techniques, dealing with procrastination, and best practices shown by research to be most effective in helping you master tough subjects. Using these approaches, no matter what your skill levels in topics you would like to master, you can change your thinking and change your life. If you’re already an expert, this peep under the mental hood will give you ideas for turbocharging successful learning, including counter-intuitive test-taking tips and insights that will help you make the best use of your time on homework and problem sets. If you’re struggling, you’ll see a structured treasure trove of practical techniques that walk you through what you need to do to get on track. If you’ve ever wanted to become better at anything, this course will help serve as your guide. This course can be taken independent of, concurrent with, or prior to, its companion course, Mindshift. (Learning How to Learn is more learning-focused, and Mindshift is more career-focused.) A related course by the same instructors is Uncommon Sense Teaching. To join the fully translated Portuguese version of the course, visit: https://www.coursera.org/learn/aprender To join the fully translated Spanish version of the course, visit: https://www.coursera.org/learn/aprendiendo-a-aprender To join the fully translated Chinese version of the course, visit: https://www.coursera.org/learn/ruhe-xuexi To join the fully translated French version of the course, visit : http://www.coursera.org/learn/apprendre-comment-apprendre

Status: Mental Concentration
Status: Creativity
BeginnerCourse16 hours

Featured reviews

BH

5.0Reviewed Nov 13, 2015

I found this course to be incredibly helpful. I am 33 and wish that I would have been taught a more efficient way of learning many years ago. There are definitely some great takeaways from this class.

CS

5.0Reviewed Jan 1, 2020

This class feels basic, but it hold deep truths about how to be a better learner and it provides great research you can go deeper into on your own. Excellent instruction, you get out what you put in.

AK

4.0Reviewed Aug 15, 2021

S​ome cool new techniques and understanding where they fit in the bigger picture.I​ wish I was made aware of this growing up.T​hanks Barbara Oakley, Terry Sejnowski, and the Learning How to Learn Team

MT

5.0Reviewed Apr 12, 2026

This has helped me to formulate lessons for my students so that they can remember better, by using techniques such as metaphors and analogies, chunking using mnemonics, spaced repetition, and quizzes.

CD

5.0Reviewed Aug 1, 2020

This course accumulates a clear and valuable set of thoughts that structure knowledge about learning principles and tactics. Also, it was interesting to know some new things about how the brain works.

RS

5.0Reviewed Sep 6, 2015

I am a more effective learner as a result of this course. It has also, surprisingly, increased my enjoyment while learning. Thanks to Barbara and Terry for a well presented and informative production.

CM

5.0Reviewed Aug 17, 2016

Probably the most important course I've ever taken in my life and it was completely free. Already applied many of the concepts and have seen the difference. Do yourself a favor and take this course.

AK

5.0Reviewed Aug 17, 2017

It was a wonderful journey of learning how to learn. Simple and effective. Wish i had come across something like this a little early in life. But better late than never. Keep up the good work. Thanks.

BA

5.0Reviewed Nov 5, 2016

Amazing course, I learned a lot of new techniques for self motivation, and effecient learning. Now, I feel more confident to take further steps in improving and developing myself. Thank you so much :)

HS

5.0Reviewed May 14, 2020

learned a lot of new skills and tricks and hacks...very much valuable and worth it ..learned the new ways of learning...which i think a priceless knowledge...thanks a lot Barbara mam and Terry sir..

MM

5.0Reviewed Aug 14, 2015

I really loved this course. Great teacher(s) who can explain the material in an easy way. I also loved the explanation of how the brain works. Thanks for the tools on how to learn more effective.Menno

KG

5.0Reviewed Feb 3, 2016

I specially like the optional interviews. These learning case studies are quite insightful and you might just find a something that you can relate to, which might help in the grand scheme of things :)

All reviews

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Patrick McGee
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Reviewed Aug 20, 2017
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Reviewed Mar 22, 2019
Keenan Leonard-Solis
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