What effect does actively testing oneself on material have on retention?

Actively testing oneself on material significantly enhances both encoding and retention of information. This process, known as retrieval practice, involves recalling information from memory, which strengthens the neural connections associated with that information. When individuals engage in self-testing, they are not only reinforcing their memory but also identifying gaps in their knowledge, allowing them to target specific areas for further study.

Research has shown that retrieval practice is more effective than simply re-reading or reviewing material because it forces the brain to engage with the material more actively. As a result, information becomes better encoded in long-term memory, making it easier to retrieve in the future. This cumulative strengthening of memory traces is essential for effective learning.

Furthermore, this process leads to improved understanding because it often involves reorganizing and integrating new information with what the learner already knows, fostering deeper cognitive processing. Thus, actively testing oneself is a powerful technique for enhancing learning outcomes and ensuring greater retention of knowledge.