DeepGamma.

Do you like to think in pictures? Although we all learn differently, some people understand concepts more effectively through visual images rather than words. As Author Brisbane, the famous American newspaper editor, once said, “A picture is worth a thousand words”. So, why not take advantage of pictures and visual learning to elevate our own learning experience and retention?

What are learning styles?

Educators know that there are several methods or “styles” of learning. The most commonly referenced is the VARK model, which categorises learning into four main types:

1. Visual Learning: Learning through seeing.
2. Auditory Learning: Learning through hearing.
3. Reading/Writing Learning: Learning through reading and writing.
4. Kinesthetic Learning: Learning through doing.

What is visual learning?

Visual learning is a learning style in which learners understand and retain information better when it’s presented visually rather than verbally or through text alone.

People who learn better through visual materials often called “visual-spatial learners” or “visual learners”. 

Visual learners prefer to see and process information in formats like charts, diagrams, pictures, and videos.

They tend to think in pictures, preferring to grasp the big picture first before diving into details. They process ideas visually, either in their minds or through visual content, before putting them into words. They also better recall information through images or spatial arrangements.

Drill and practice methods aren’t usually helpful for visual learners  although there can be exceptions in areas like sports or music. However, visual activities still help them build a deeper understanding of the subject.

Characteristics of a visual learner

To determine if someone is a visual learner, look for the following signs:

• Strong visualisation skills: They can easily imagine or “see” things in their mind’s eye, such as recalling images, faces, or scenes.
• Preference for visual aids: They prefer using visual tools like mind maps, charts, and infographics to organise and understand information.
• Observant of visual details: They tend to notice small visual details that others might overlook, like changes in their environment or subtle differences in design.
• Good at interpreting visual information: They excel at reading maps, graphs, and diagrams, often finding it easier to interpret data presented visually.
• Use of visual language: When explaining something, they often use visual language, such as “I see what you mean” or “Let’s look at it from a different angle.”
• Tendency to draw or doodle: They might doodle in the margins of their notes or draw out concepts to help them understand and remember.

However, keep it mind that “visual learner” is just a term to describe a person who learns better through visual learning. It’s not an absolute category, and it’s normal for people to gravitate towards more than one learning style. 

5 strategies to tailor your study for better learning

If you are a visual learner or learn better through visual materials, you can tailor your study methods to include more visual elements for more effective learning and better retention of information. Here are 5 easy ways you can start today.

1. Use more visual aids

• Incorporate diagrams, charts, and mind maps
  • Since you’re likely to process information better when it’s presented in a graphical format, use tools like flowcharts for processes, Venn diagrams for comparisons, and mind maps to organise ideas.
• Colour-code your notes
  • Highlight key concepts, terms, and ideas in different colours to help your brain categorise and recall information more efficiently.

2. Create study notes with images

• Combine text with relevant images
  • When making study notes, include pictures, icons, or symbols next to important points. This association helps reinforce memory.
• Use infographics
  • Summarise complex information into easy-to-digest infographics or drawings, which can be used as quick reference tools.

3. Use videos and tutorials

• Watch educational videos
  • Platforms like Youtube and Khan Academy offer video tutorials on a wide range of subjects. Watching someone explain concepts visually can be more effective than reading texts alone.
• Use animation software
  • Tools like Prezi or Powtoon can help you create animated presentations that visualise your study materials.

4. Visualise information through drawing

• Sketch concepts
  • Even if you’re not an artist, drawing out concepts, processes, or ideas in simple sketches can help solidify your understanding.
• Use whiteboard or paper
  • Writing and drawing on a whiteboard or paper let you organise and reorganise your thoughts visually, making it easier to see the big picture.

5. Organise study space visually

• Create a visually stimulating study environment
  • Surround yourself with posters, charts, or sticky notes that contain key information. A visually rich environment keeps you engaged and helps reinforce learning.
• Use apps or tools
  • Digital tools like Evernote or OneNote allow you to organise your notes in a visually appealing way to match your preference.

By seeing and interacting with information in a visually engaging manner, you’re likely to improve your learning experience and memory recall speed.

In Essence

Visual learning is a great way to absorb information, especially if you find it easier to understand and remember things when they’re presented visually—through images, diagrams, charts, or other visual tools.

That said, it’s important to understand that this preference is just one aspect of how we learn. While you may prefer visual aids like diagrams and videos, it doesn’t mean you’re “strictly” a visual learner. Most people benefit from a combination of different methods, and our learning style can vary depending on the context or subject matter. You may also find listening to podcasts or doing hands-on activities effective.

Personally, I gravitate towards visual learning too. I like seeing images or watching demonstrations. However, I know that I learn even better when I can link visuals with texts, and reinforce it by doing the activity myself. Of course, it all depends on the context and subject what we’re learning. For example, when learning to drive a car, we all learn best by watching and practising, not just by reading a manual.

So, think of “visual learner” as more of a preference than an absolute category. Explore a mix of strategies to find what works best for you.

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