Can You Get Smarter? Why IQ Isn't Fixed
If intelligence is just a genetic lottery, why do some people's scores jump? Explore how sleep, diet, and novelty can help sharpen your mental focus.
Best quote from Can You Get Smarter? Why IQ Isn't Fixed
Intelligence is a dynamic skill, not a static number. It’s a work in progress, and you’re the architect.
This audio lesson was created by a BeFreed community member
How to be smarter and very intelligent
Frequently Asked Questions
Fluid intelligence (Gf) refers to the brain's raw processing power and the ability to reason through novel problems without relying on past knowledge. It is often compared to a computer's CPU. Crystallized intelligence (Gc) is the sum total of everything you have learned, such as vocabulary and facts, acting like a mental hard drive. While crystallized intelligence tends to grow as we age, fluid intelligence typically peaks in our twenties, though modern research suggests we can optimize and potentially improve it through specific training.
The Dual N-Back is a demanding brain-training task that requires tracking both visual and auditory information simultaneously. While its ability to raise overall IQ scores is a subject of intense scientific debate—with some studies showing significant gains and others showing no "transfer effect" to general intelligence—there is a consensus that it effectively improves working memory capacity. Regular, adaptive practice can lead to "neural efficiency," allowing the brain to manage complex tasks and follow instructions more easily while using less energy.
Exercise acts as a direct intervention for neurons by triggering the release of BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor), often called "Miracle-Gro for the brain." This protein supports the survival of existing neurons and encourages neurogenesis, the birth of new cells in the hippocampus. Studies have shown that structured aerobic exercise can lead to measurable increases in IQ scores, equivalent to an extra year of formal schooling, by improving blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain.
There is no "miracle pill" for intelligence, but a "neurogenic diet" like the Mediterranean or MIND diet provides the necessary building blocks for brain health. Omega-3 fatty acids improve the fluidity of neuron membranes for better signaling, while antioxidants protect cells from oxidative stress. Regarding supplements, most have shaky evidence, but Creatine Monohydrate has shown some ability to provide a small IQ boost by aiding energy recycling in the brain, particularly in those who are sleep-deprived.
Sleep is an active maintenance process where the glymphatic system flushes metabolic waste from the brain. It is essential for "systems memory consolidation," the process where the brain replays information gathered during the day and transfers it from short-term storage in the hippocampus to long-term storage in the neocortex. REM sleep specifically helps with fluid intelligence and creativity by integrating new information with existing knowledge, allowing the brain to see patterns and solve complex problems.
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From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
"Instead of endless scrolling, I just hit play on BeFreed. It saves me so much time."
"I never knew where to start with nonfiction—BeFreed’s book lists turned into podcasts gave me a clear path."
"Perfect balance between learning and entertainment. Finished ‘Thinking, Fast and Slow’ on my commute this week."
"Crazy how much I learned while walking the dog. BeFreed = small habits → big gains."
"Reading used to feel like a chore. Now it’s just part of my lifestyle."
"Feels effortless compared to reading. I’ve finished 6 books this month already."
"BeFreed turned my guilty doomscrolling into something that feels productive and inspiring."
"BeFreed turned my commute into learning time. 20-min podcasts are perfect for finishing books I never had time for."
"BeFreed replaced my podcast queue. Imagine Spotify for books — that’s it. 🙌"
"It is great for me to learn something from the book without reading it."
"The themed book list podcasts help me connect ideas across authors—like a guided audio journey."
"Makes me feel smarter every time before going to work"
