What Is a Learning Style?

A learning style is your preferred way of absorbing, processing, and retaining information. While everyone uses a mix of learning methods, most people have a dominant preference that makes learning feel more natural and effective.

The 4 VARK Learning Styles

The most widely used model is VARK, developed by Neil Fleming. It identifies four learning preferences:

How to Identify Your Learning Style

Ask yourself these questions:

• When learning something new, do you prefer to see a diagram? → You may be a visual learner
• Do you remember things better after hearing them explained? → You may be an auditory learner
• Do you prefer to read instructions or write notes? → You may be a read/write learner
• Do you learn best by doing — trying things hands-on? → You may be a kinaesthetic learner

The best way to find out is to take a structured learning style assessment that asks about your preferences across different situations.

Study Tips by Learning Style

If you are a Visual Learner

• Use colour-coded notes and highlighters
• Draw mind maps and flowcharts
• Watch video tutorials and demonstrations
• Use diagrams to visualise processes and relationships
• Sit at the front of a classroom so you can see visual aids clearly

If you are an Auditory Learner

• Listen to podcasts and audiobooks on your subject
• Record lectures and replay them
• Explain concepts out loud to yourself or a study partner
• Join study groups for discussion
• Use mnemonic devices and rhymes

If you are a Read/Write Learner

• Take detailed written notes during lessons
• Rewrite notes in your own words
• Create bullet-point summaries for each topic
• Use textbooks and written reference materials
• Write practice essays or flashcards

If you are a Kinaesthetic Learner

• Seek out practical, hands-on activities
• Use role-play or simulation exercises
• Take frequent breaks and move around while studying
• Apply concepts to real-world scenarios immediately
• Use physical flashcards you can sort and arrange

Other Learning Style Models

While VARK is the most popular, other well-known models include:

• Kolb's Experiential Learning Cycle — divides learners into Convergers, Divergers, Assimilators, and Accommodators based on how they process experience
• Honey and Mumford — identifies Activists, Reflectors, Theorists, and Pragmatists
• Gardner's Multiple Intelligences — proposes 8 types of intelligence including linguistic, logical-mathematical, spatial, musical, and interpersonal

Frequently Asked Questions

Can your learning style change?

Your dominant learning preference tends to be fairly stable, but it can shift over time with experience and age. Many people also adapt their approach depending on the subject — you might prefer visual learning for geography but auditory learning for language.

Are learning styles scientifically proven?

Learning styles are a useful self-awareness tool, but it is worth noting that some researchers debate whether teaching exclusively to a person's style produces better outcomes. The current consensus is that using a variety of methods — and understanding your preferences — leads to the best results.

What is the most common learning style?

Studies suggest that kinaesthetic learning is the most common single preference, with around 30-40% of people identifying it as their primary style. However, most people are multimodal, using a combination of two or more styles.