Learning Styles

There are many different theories and views of learning styles and approaches to learning. You may have heard of people talking about 'visual learners', 'kinaesthetic learners' and others. An overview of these different learning styles can be seen below, followed by some suggested study techniques*

• Visual (spatial) Learners - Learners who prefer using pictures, images, and spatial understanding.

• Try: mind maps; colour coding; pictures; journey pegs
• Aural (auditory-musical) Learners - Learners who prefer using sound and music.
  • Try: musical mnemonics; voice recordings; group learning
• Verbal (linguistic) Learners - Learners who prefer using words, both in speech and writing.
  • Try: bullet points; group learning; voice recordings 
• Physical (kinaesthetic) Learners - Learners who prefer using your body, hands and sense of touch.
  • Try: make use of props; use flowcharts; combine a physical activity with studying 
• Logical (mathematical) Learners - Learners who prefer  using logic, reasoning and systems.
  • Try: create your own study system
• Social (interpersonal) Learners - Learners who prefer to learn in groups or with other people.
  • Try: organise study groups; explain topics out loud to others
• Solitary (intrapersonal) Learners - Learners who prefer to work alone and use self-study
  • Try: find a distraction-free place to study

* Please note these are only suggestions, so feel free to try a number of different approaches to suit your needs. For more information see our study skills page. 

What is your learning style?

There are a number of online questionnaires that help you find out your learning style, including the following:

Learning Styles Online

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