If you think this is just another “how-to” book, you would be wrong. Too bad this book wasn’t around when I was a struggling student of any age. I could have benefited from Tip 50--If you can’t remember a fact, such as listing the names of animals, try using themes, such as animals on a farm, in Australia, circus animals. Or Tip 23--Consider note taking to be a team sport. Working with a group of students or even just one other person can keep you on track, expand on ideas, pick up things you left out. I found Chapter 8, How to Take Tests, a chapter I could have used in my day and Chapter 9, How to Learn from Past Exams, a definite help. There may be some tips and discussions you may have heard before but it only helps to hear them again and again and in new ways. The author expands on all his topics and tips which adds a great deal to understanding his suggestions. Wonderful book to use in any learning situation.

Five stars for this well-written, easy-to-understand book with clear, concise, comprehensive instructions on how to be an effective learner. I found the sections on preparing for and taking notes during lectures the most helpful. As a result, I became a better listener and took fewer (but better) notes that were more useful when it came to preparing for the exam. I also followed the study suggestions that became less onerous as they became more habitual. I was less interested in why these techniques worked, so I was glad the author gave just enough information about the brain to convince me the techniques would work. As an adult learner returning to school for graduate level science classes, I needed all the help I could get, so I used many of the techniques set out in this book. As a result, I not only answered all of the midterm questions correctly, I also got all of the bonus questions right.

This book is very user friendly! I learned a few things about my own habits that might not be the most productive in terms of getting results. The sections on highlighting and reading difficult books was very interesting! This would be a valuable tool for students to assess their own study habits/skills and try to develop stronger strategies. It would also be interesting to have educators review this work with students to help support learning. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

A quick, student-friendly review of many evidence-based strategies and tactics for creating lasting memories and succeeding in college. For the most part, the recommendations are grounded strongly in relevant cognitive and motivational science, but at times advice is vague and not supported by concrete examples, but Outsmart Your Brain is an excellent first read for students interested in learning more about how to learn, stay motivated, and be productive in higher education settings.

As a high school counselor and someone who sees kids struggling regularly, this is an excellent book that all students should read prior to pursuing higher education. There are real world problems and strategies, often broken into bite-sized solutions, to help students find their groove.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. All of the opinions given are my own and have been given nothing for my review.