NPR

In Memory Training Smackdown, One Method Dominates

A comparison of two memory training methods often used by scientists found that one was twice as good as the other. But neither succeeded in turning people into cognitive superstars.
Want to get smarter? Brain training games don't seem to help with that. / Maskot / Getty Images

When it comes to brain training, some workouts seem to work better than others.

A comparison of the two most common training methods scientists use to improve memory and attention found that one was twice as effective as the other. The more effective method also changed brain activity in a part of the brain involved in high-level thinking.

But neither method made anyone smarter, says Kara

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min read
Helping Women Get Better Sleep By Calming The Relentless 'To-do Lists' In Their Heads
A recent survey found that Americans' sleep patterns have been getting worse. Adult women under 50 are among the most sleep-deprived demographics.
NPR2 min readWorld
Hamas Releases Video Of A Second American Being Held Hostage In Gaza
Hamas has released a video showing two captives, one of them an American, as part of an effort to prove that the two men are still alive. It was the second video of a U.S. citizen released this week.
NPR4 min read
You Know It When You See It: Here Are Some Movies That Got Sex Scenes Right
Good sex scenes are like any other kind of good filmmaking: It comes down to execution with purpose and care, done relative to whatever the function of the scene might be.

Related Books & Audiobooks