How to Become a Super Learner: Science-Based Techniques

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a protein supporting neuron growth, survival, and differentiation. Everly explains: “Physical exercise, pre-sleep learning (hypnogogic learning), and repetition are all associated with enhanced learning, likely predicated upon increases in brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF). Finding ways of enhancing the release of BDNF may be a key to becoming a super learner.” BDNF facilitates neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections—enabling understanding and retention of new material. Several super learning techniques work precisely because they trigger BDNF release, creating biological conditions for enhanced learning at molecular level rather than relying solely on motivation or effort.

Everly describes pre-sleep or hypnogogic learning as “studying a problem as you literally fall asleep. The technique is purported to enhance retention and creativity.” He cites Kekulé, “the chemist who famously envisioned a snake biting its own tail as an analogue for the structure of benzene” through this technique. The hypnogogic state—transitional consciousness between wakefulness and sleep—apparently facilitated creative visual insight solving a problem Kekulé had been struggling with during conscious work. The snake eating its tail (ouroboros symbol) provided the crucial metaphor for benzene’s ring structure, demonstrating how relaxed, half-asleep consciousness can produce breakthrough insights that focused conscious analysis misses. Thomas Edison also used this technique, suggesting its value extends beyond chemistry to diverse creative domains.

The Pygmalion Effect refers to the phenomenon where higher expectations lead to improved performance—others’ beliefs about you actually shape your outcomes. Everly recommends: “Find a friend or mentor who believes in you and who will support you in difficult times, but most importantly, be a relentless advocate and source of encouragement.” He explains why this works: “Interpersonal support is the single best predictor of human resilience. The belief and expectations that a teacher, coach, mentor, or parent have for their students can significantly impact who those students become.” His father exemplifies this—insisting Everly continue high school despite counselor’s dire prediction, believing in possibilities the counselor couldn’t see. This support proved transformative, suggesting social-emotional factors matter as much as cognitive techniques for learning success.

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This is a Beginner-level article using accessible language to explain neuroscience concepts and learning techniques for general Psychology Today audience. While introducing specialized terms (neuroplasticity, BDNF, hypnogogic learning, Pygmalion Effect), Everly defines them clearly through context and examples. The structure follows straightforward pattern: personal narrative establishing credibility, expert validation through Oakley’s authority, numbered list of concrete techniques, explanation of underlying mechanisms, hopeful conclusion. Readers need basic comfort with scientific vocabulary and ability to track connections between techniques and neuroscience explanations, but the article avoids technical jargon and complex argumentation. Success requires following numbered lists, understanding cause-effect relationships (exercise increases BDNF which facilitates neuroplasticity which enhances learning), and appreciating how personal narrative functions as evidence. The encouraging tone and practical focus make neuroscience accessible to motivated readers without specialized background.

Everly explains multimedia learning involves “taking the material to be learned and converting it into multiple media, such as a) text material, b) listening to an audio presentation of the same text, c) converting the text into a rhythmic poetic cadence, d) combining the text with music, and e) even converting key concepts into representative pictures.” This works because “Multi-media learning is associated with the recruitment of varied and diverse brain regions, serving to complement and enhance the learning process.” Different formats engage different neural pathways—visual processing for pictures, auditory processing for music and rhythm, language centers for text—creating multiple memory traces for the same information. This redundancy strengthens retention while engaging broader brain capacity than single-modality learning. The varied encoding also provides multiple retrieval cues, making information more accessible when needed.

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