There are many different learning styles and various models that break down learners into different categories. Learning about the different learning styles can help you to identify your own strengths and weaknesses and shape your study habits into the best fit for you. Trying several different types of learning style break-downs can help you to see different sides of your learning abilities and creating a unique picture of your preferences.

The VAK Model
The acronym VAK stands for visual learners, auditory learners, and kinesthetic learners. Visual learners learn best through sight and may respond particularly well to flow charts, images, and other visual representations. Visual learners study best by arranging material in diagrams and other visual methods.

Auditory learners often have the easiest time in the traditional classroom or lecture as they learn best by hearing information. Auditory learners may find that reading aloud is a good study method.

Kinesthetic learners learn by doing–these learners may be well suited to the science classroom and enjoy experiments and projects. Anything that gets them involved in the process will help them to learn best.

Anthony Gregorc’s Learning Styles
Gregorc breaks down learners into four district categories based on two perception styles and two ordering styles. The former is either Abstract or concrete. Abstract learners perceive information in terms of ideas, theories, and emotions, whereas concrete learners learn and understand best by using their five sense.

The ordering styles are sequential and random, sequential learners order information in linear patterns whereas random learners process chunks of information and don’t need them in any specific order. Together, the four learning styles are concrete random, concrete sequential, abstract random, and abstract sequential.

Myers-Briggs Type Indicator
One of the most well-known and in-depth learning style tests is the Myers-Briggs. Taking the test can help you to identify how you learn, how you work with others, and how you best understand the world. There are sixteen different types, made up of four letters each and combinations of the eight different factors.

The first letter is E versus I, standing for extrovert versus introvert. This means where you get your energy: Es get their energy from being social and spending time in group settings. The second letter is similar to the concrete versus abstract of the Gregorc styles. N stands for intuition and S stands for sensing. Someone who is an N will tend to see the world in abstract sense, using their intuition, or sixth sense, to understand information. An S, like the concrete learner, will be more comfortable using the five senses.

The third letter is a T or an F standing for thinking or feeling, whether you make decisions primarily with your head or your heart. The final letter is J or P for judging or perceiving a J will tend to schedule and stick to a plan whereas a P will be more spontaneous and enjoy leaving all of their options open. All together, your Myers-Briggs type would appear as ENTP, INFJ or any of the other sixteen combinations.

Understanding your learning style and how you best process information and work with others can be hugely beneficial during your education. Knowing yourself will allow you to design a study plan, schedule, and set goals that are the best possible fit for how you learn.