Do you assume that people are either smart or not so smart, and that’s just the way it is? Do you think that IQ is set in early childhood, and nothing will change it? If so, smarten up! Your brain has an amazing ability to grow and improve—a property called neuroplasticity—throughout your life. There are even specific steps for increasing intelligence. In fact, cognitive scientists can list them for you.
Although different experts may propose different lists, there are some concepts about which they agree. One basic recommendation is to learn new things that are difficult for you, whether that is another language, how to play a musical instrument, or a deep understanding of Shakespeare’s plays. Another general guideline is to confront ideas—political, cultural, religious, whatever—that contradict your long-held beliefs. You may still feel the same way in the end, but you will have exercised your brain by examining other viewpoints. Physical activity also affects mental ability. Even mild exercise, such as walking, stimulates production of a molecule that helps build new neurons and synapses.
Improving short-term memory appears to be a key to raising overall intelligence. To sharpen yours, try building a “memory palace,” which associates new pieces of information with vivid mental images. Or simply write down your to-do list in longhand; studies show you’re more likely to remember the list. Keep in mind that IQ can also decline. Watch hours of reality TV, surround yourself with people who are just like you, read as little as possible, and avoid new experiences, and you may find out just how much!
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- 31 Ways to Get Smarter in 2012
Learn background information about intelligence and see how many of these recommendations you already practice, or see how many you can work into your daily life.
(Source: Newsweek, January 9 and 16, 2012)
- 5 Simple Ways to Increase Your Intelligence
If 31 ways to get smarter is too many, try 5.
(Source: Pick the Brain; accessed January 31, 2012)
- Method of Loci
Read how people through the centuries have used the memory palace concept to remember vast amounts of information.
(Source: Wikipedia; accessed January 31, 2012)
- No Gain from Brain Training
Are you hoping to increase your brain power by using commercial brain-training programs? Read why those efforts may be wasted.
(Source: Nature, April 20, 2010)