How do I increase my cognitive performance through neuroplasticity?

You can improve your cognitive performance by engaging in targeted practice and evidence-based strategies that leverage the brain's ability to physically reorganize itself. By consistently challenging your intellect with new, complex tasks, you stimulate the growth of neural connections. This process of neuroplasticity allows your brain to adapt and become more efficient at processing information over time.

What are the best memory techniques for retaining large amounts of information?

The most effective methods for long-term retention include mnemonic systems and accelerated learning techniques used by world memory champions. These strategies often involve transforming abstract data into vivid mental imagery or using spatial anchoring to organize information. By utilizing these proven frameworks, you can significantly increase your recall speed and prevent the natural decay of acquired knowledge.

Why is critical thinking important for effective problem-solving?

Critical thinking is essential because it allows you to systematically deconstruct complex problems while identifying and overcoming inherent cognitive biases. By applying sharp analytical skills, you can evaluate evidence objectively rather than relying on intuition alone. This disciplined approach ensures that your conclusions are based on clear reasoning, leading to more accurate and reliable decision-making in high-stakes situations.

Can I actually get smarter as an adult?

Yes, it is entirely possible to enhance your intelligence as an adult by applying the science of cognitive enhancement and mental modeling. Research shows that the brain remains malleable throughout life, meaning that strategic mental exercise can improve fluid intelligence and executive function. Adopting sophisticated thinking systems helps you navigate modern complexities with greater clarity and strategic insight than previously possible.

Does using mental models really improve decision-making?

Using mental models improves decision-making by providing structured frameworks that help you filter information and predict potential outcomes. These advanced thinking systems allow you to approach multifaceted challenges from multiple perspectives, reducing the likelihood of mental blind spots. By mastering a diverse toolkit of models, you develop a more robust and versatile approach to solving professional and personal dilemmas.

How long does it take to see results from cognitive training?

The timeline for visible cognitive improvement varies, but consistent application of learning and reasoning strategies typically yields noticeable results within a few weeks. Initial gains often appear as improved focus and faster information processing, while deep structural changes in thinking patterns require months of deliberate practice. Sustained effort ensures that these enhanced mental capabilities become permanent fixtures of your cognitive architecture.

Get smarter

LEARNING PLAN

Get smarter

In an era of information overload, the ability to process, retain, and analyze data is a critical competitive advantage. This plan is designed for professionals and lifelong learners who want to upgrade their mental hardware and master the frameworks used by elite thinkers.

ByCommunity User

3 h 1 m

• 4 sections • 12 courses • Updated 23 hours ago

12 sources

How This Learning Plan Was Made

This plan was crafted by BeFreed's proprietary AI to help you learn Get smarter with ease. It is curated from in-depth research on the topic and structured around the most effective learning journeys proven by BeFreed users.

Each episode delivers bite-sized, high-impact lessons distilled from world-class sources — bestselling books, research papers, and expert insights. Together, they form a sophisticated yet accessible path to mastering Get smarter.

What You'll Learn

Leverage neuroplasticity to physically enhance your brain's cognitive capabilities.
Apply world-class memory techniques to accelerate information retention.
Execute sharp analytical reasoning by identifying and overcoming cognitive biases.
Solve complex problems systematically using advanced mental frameworks.
Implement strategic thinking models to approach challenges with total clarity.
Master the science of learning to acquire new skills faster and more effectively.

Discover the science behind intelligence and how your brain can physically change through targeted practice and evidence-based strategies.

The neuroscience of intelligence

Decode your genetic intelligence blueprint: science beyond brain-training myths

10 m

25 sources

The Science of Getting Mentally Smart

Discover what intelligence really means beyond trivia and test scores. Learn evidence-based strategies to enhance different types of cognitive abilities and build genuine mental fitness.

27 m

Smarter

Explore cutting-edge research on boosting intelligence through brain training, exercise, and other cognitive enhancement techniques.

8 m

Transform how you acquire and retain information using proven memory techniques and accelerated learning methods from world champions.

MAKE IT STICK , BROWN, PETER C. [Hardcover] HARVARD UNIVERSITY PRESS

Transform learning with science-backed strategies for durable memory and mastery.

8 m

Tim Ferriss's Learning Revolution: Master Any Skill Faster

23 sources

Mastering the Science of Accelerated Learning

Stop wasting time on passive re-reading and discover evidence-based cognitive techniques that help you learn three times faster and retain knowledge forever.

29 m

Unlimited Memory

Unlock your mind's potential with powerful memory techniques to learn faster, remember more, and boost productivity effortlessly.

9 m

Develop sharp analytical skills and overcome cognitive biases to make better decisions and solve complex problems systematically.

The Art of Thinking Clearly

Uncover cognitive biases and logical fallacies to make better decisions in all aspects of life through 99 insightful chapters.

8 m

How to Improve Critical Thinking Skills: Practical Steps That Work - Feen AI

7 Critical Thinking Exercises for Adults to Improve Decision-Making

Critical thinking is more important than ever. How can I improve my skills?

The Role of Critical Thinking Skills in Improving Mental Health | Psychology Today

8 sources

Critical thinking skills can be trained

Most people think logic is an innate talent, but it’s a skill you can build. Learn five pillars to stop being a passive consumer and sharpen your mind.

13 m

Asking the right questions

A practical guide to critical thinking, teaching readers how to analyze arguments and make informed decisions through systematic questioning.

9 m

Master sophisticated mental frameworks and thinking models that help you approach complex challenges with clarity and strategic insight.

Mental Models

Mental models toolkit for smarter, science-backed decision-making.

1 m

25 sources

Probabilistic thinking and why experts get it wrong

Stop asking if a project will work and start asking for the odds. Learn how superforecasters use probability to outpredict experts and make better bets.

42 m

How to Think More Effectively

Optimize your mind for creativity, insight, and productivity.

8 m

Discover more

Becoming sharper minded

LEARNING PLAN

Becoming sharper minded

In an era of information overload, the ability to process data clearly and think critically is a vital competitive advantage. This plan is ideal for professionals, students, or lifelong learners looking to upgrade their mental hardware and achieve peak cognitive performance.

2 h 11 m•4 Sections

Boost Skills, Productivity & Logic

LEARNING PLAN

Boost Skills, Productivity & Logic

In an era of information overload, the ability to process data logically and learn new skills rapidly is the ultimate competitive advantage. This plan is designed for professionals and lifelong learners who want to master their time and cognitive output to achieve peak performance.

3 h 2 m•4 Sections

Boost IQ, knowledge, and analysis skills

LEARNING PLAN

Boost IQ, knowledge, and analysis skills

In an information-dense world, the ability to process, retain, and analyze data is a competitive necessity. This plan is designed for professionals and lifelong learners who want to upgrade their mental hardware by mastering the science of learning and strategic reasoning.

3 h 22 m•4 Sections

Become more intelligent

LEARNING PLAN

Become more intelligent

This plan is designed for lifelong learners and professionals who want to sharpen their mental edge. It provides a comprehensive roadmap for anyone looking to upgrade their cognitive toolkit, from memory mastery to sophisticated problem-solving frameworks.

2 h 39 m•4 Sections

Sharpen Mind & Expand Knowledge

LEARNING PLAN

Sharpen Mind & Expand Knowledge

In an era of information overload, the ability to process, retain, and apply knowledge is a critical competitive advantage. This plan is designed for professionals and lifelong learners who want to upgrade their cognitive hardware and master the mechanics of high-level reasoning.

2 h 32 m•4 Sections

Overall improve cognition

LEARNING PLAN

Overall improve cognition

In an era of information overload, the ability to process data and make clear decisions is a competitive necessity. This plan is designed for professionals and lifelong learners who want to leverage neuroscience to sharpen their focus and upgrade their mental hardware.

2 h 8 m•4 Sections

Improve knowledge

LEARNING PLAN

Improve knowledge

In an era of information overload, the ability to process data efficiently and think critically is a vital competitive advantage. This plan is designed for professionals and students who want to move beyond surface-level reading to achieve true intellectual mastery and better decision-making.

2 h 44 m•4 Sections

Learn every thing

LEARNING PLAN

Learn every thing

In an era of information overload, the ability to process and synthesize knowledge is the ultimate competitive advantage. This plan is designed for lifelong learners and professionals who want to upgrade their cognitive toolkit for better reasoning and long-term intellectual growth.

2 h 13 m•4 Sections

FAQs

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 1,000,000 Curious Minds

See more on how BeFreed is discussed across the web

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 1,000,000 Curious Minds

See more on how BeFreed is discussed across the web

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

See More Stories?

How people are talking about BeFreed across the web

1.5K Ratings4.7

Start your learning journey, now

Get smarter

LEARNING PLAN

Get smarter

ByCommunity User

3 h 1 m

• 4 sections • 12 courses • Updated 23 hours ago

12 sources

How This Learning Plan Was Made

What You'll Learn

Leverage neuroplasticity to physically enhance your brain's cognitive capabilities.
Apply world-class memory techniques to accelerate information retention.
Execute sharp analytical reasoning by identifying and overcoming cognitive biases.
Solve complex problems systematically using advanced mental frameworks.
Implement strategic thinking models to approach challenges with total clarity.
Master the science of learning to acquire new skills faster and more effectively.

Discover the science behind intelligence and how your brain can physically change through targeted practice and evidence-based strategies.

The neuroscience of intelligence

Decode your genetic intelligence blueprint: science beyond brain-training myths

10 m

25 sources

The Science of Getting Mentally Smart

Discover what intelligence really means beyond trivia and test scores. Learn evidence-based strategies to enhance different types of cognitive abilities and build genuine mental fitness.

27 m

Smarter

Explore cutting-edge research on boosting intelligence through brain training, exercise, and other cognitive enhancement techniques.

8 m

Transform how you acquire and retain information using proven memory techniques and accelerated learning methods from world champions.

MAKE IT STICK , BROWN, PETER C. [Hardcover] HARVARD UNIVERSITY PRESS

Transform learning with science-backed strategies for durable memory and mastery.

8 m

23 sources

Mastering the Science of Accelerated Learning

Stop wasting time on passive re-reading and discover evidence-based cognitive techniques that help you learn three times faster and retain knowledge forever.

29 m

Unlimited Memory

Unlock your mind's potential with powerful memory techniques to learn faster, remember more, and boost productivity effortlessly.

9 m

Develop sharp analytical skills and overcome cognitive biases to make better decisions and solve complex problems systematically.

The Art of Thinking Clearly

Uncover cognitive biases and logical fallacies to make better decisions in all aspects of life through 99 insightful chapters.

8 m

8 sources

Critical thinking skills can be trained

Most people think logic is an innate talent, but it’s a skill you can build. Learn five pillars to stop being a passive consumer and sharpen your mind.

13 m

Asking the right questions

A practical guide to critical thinking, teaching readers how to analyze arguments and make informed decisions through systematic questioning.

9 m

Master sophisticated mental frameworks and thinking models that help you approach complex challenges with clarity and strategic insight.

Mental Models

Mental models toolkit for smarter, science-backed decision-making.

1 m

25 sources

Probabilistic thinking and why experts get it wrong

Stop asking if a project will work and start asking for the odds. Learn how superforecasters use probability to outpredict experts and make better bets.

42 m

How to Think More Effectively

Optimize your mind for creativity, insight, and productivity.

8 m

Discover more

Becoming sharper minded

LEARNING PLAN

Becoming sharper minded

2 h 11 m•4 Sections

Boost Skills, Productivity & Logic

LEARNING PLAN

Boost Skills, Productivity & Logic

3 h 2 m•4 Sections

Boost IQ, knowledge, and analysis skills

LEARNING PLAN

Boost IQ, knowledge, and analysis skills

3 h 22 m•4 Sections

Become more intelligent

LEARNING PLAN

Become more intelligent

2 h 39 m•4 Sections

Sharpen Mind & Expand Knowledge

LEARNING PLAN

Sharpen Mind & Expand Knowledge

2 h 32 m•4 Sections

Overall improve cognition

LEARNING PLAN

Overall improve cognition

2 h 8 m•4 Sections

Improve knowledge

LEARNING PLAN

Improve knowledge

2 h 44 m•4 Sections

Learn every thing

LEARNING PLAN

Learn every thing

2 h 13 m•4 Sections

FAQs

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 1,000,000 Curious Minds

See more on how BeFreed is discussed across the web

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

BeFreed Brings Together A Global Community Of 1,000,000 Curious Minds

See more on how BeFreed is discussed across the web

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."

@Moemenn

"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."

@Chloe, Solo founder, LA

117

"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."

@Raaaaaachelw

"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."

@Matt, YC alum

108

"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."

@Erin, Investment Banking Associate , NYC

254

"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."

@djmikemoore

"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."

@Pitiful

4.5K

"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."

@SofiaP

"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"

@Jaded_Falcon

201

"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."

@OojasSalunke

"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."

@Leo, Law Student, UPenn

483

"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"

@Cashflowbubu

See More Stories?

How people are talking about BeFreed across the web

1.5K Ratings4.7

Start your learning journey, now

Get smarter

How This Learning Plan Was Made

What You'll Learn

1Foundations of Cognitive Enhancement

2Mastering Learning and Memory

3Critical Thinking and Clear Reasoning

4Advanced Thinking Systems

Discover more

Becoming sharper minded

Boost Skills, Productivity & Logic

Boost IQ, knowledge, and analysis skills

Become more intelligent

Sharpen Mind & Expand Knowledge

Overall improve cognition

Improve knowledge

Learn every thing

FAQs

How do I increase my cognitive performance through neuroplasticity?

What are the best memory techniques for retaining large amounts of information?

Why is critical thinking important for effective problem-solving?

Can I actually get smarter as an adult?

See More Stories?

Get smarter

How This Learning Plan Was Made

What You'll Learn

1Foundations of Cognitive Enhancement

2Mastering Learning and Memory

3Critical Thinking and Clear Reasoning

4Advanced Thinking Systems

Discover more

Becoming sharper minded

Boost Skills, Productivity & Logic

Boost IQ, knowledge, and analysis skills

Become more intelligent

Sharpen Mind & Expand Knowledge

Overall improve cognition

Improve knowledge

Learn every thing

FAQs

How do I increase my cognitive performance through neuroplasticity?

What are the best memory techniques for retaining large amounts of information?

Why is critical thinking important for effective problem-solving?

Can I actually get smarter as an adult?

See More Stories?