Tips for Visual Learners

Posted by
Joni Rose
Jul 9, 2006

If you are a visual learner, you will learn best when information is presented in the form of a graph, chart, picture or text on a page or screen. You need to see the information.

To increase your chances of memorizing information, find a way to test yourself with visual clues. Flash cards work well for visual learners especially if you introduce colour coding and images with the words. For example, say you need to memorize a bunch of medical terms. Create flash cards that have the term on one side plus an image. On the other side of the card, define the term. When you work through the pile - look at the image/term and ask yourself the definition. If you get it right, put it in the right pile. If you get it wrong, put it in the wrong pile. Once you are through the pile, take the wrong pile and cycle through it creating new right and wrong piles. Continue to work through the wrong pile until it doesn't exist anymore i.e. they are all in the right pile!

Colour coding is also a great tool for visual learners. Introduce colour wherever you can to help you retain information and stay organized. There are many wonderful colourful office supplies that could really add to your efficiency and information retention.

To work through a problem, especially one with sequential steps, creating a flow chart will help your brain sort out the best solutions. Another problem solving and idea processing tool is a mind map. Mind mapping documents a flow of ideas that branch from the central issue. Checklists are another helpful tool to organize visual learners.

Not sure of your learning style? Try this learning style self-assessment.

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If you liked this blog entry, try Inner factors, Styles and Setting: Learner Focused Delivery