We often think of studying as just reviewing content repeatedly, in different ways, until it magically just sticks in our head.

But the truth is a little more complex than that.

While repetitively reviewing content does help us learn, there are some deeper cognitive processes help us actually remember content when we study. One such process is the self-reflective activity of metacognition.

Enter: metacognition. It’s not just a fancy psychology word—it’s one of the most powerful tools in your mental arsenal. Metacognition means “thinking about your thinking,” and it helps you study more strategically, retain more information, and avoid the classic “I swear I knew that!” exam moment.

Let’s break it down.

What is Metacognition (and Why Does iIt Matter)?

Metacognition is the process of planning, monitoring, and evaluating how you learn. It's asking yourself questions like “Do I understand this?” or “How well do I know this concept?” This self-awareness creates stronger memory pathways and helps you make smarter study decisions—like focusing on your weak spots instead of re-reading what you already know.

Great students don’t just study harder—they study smarter. That’s metacognition at work.

Students with strong metacognitive skills are better at identifying what they know, where they’re shaky, and how to fill in the gaps. They make study plans, prioritize weak areas, and use active strategies (not just passive highlighting). The result? Better performance—not because they’re inherently smarter, but because they’re strategic.

It’s Not Just a Study Skill—It’s a Life Skill

via GIPHY

Metacognition can help you in real life, too. Recognizing what you don’t know (instead of confidently winging it, Dunning-Kruger style) is a mark of wisdom. It can help you manage emotions, improve relationships, and avoid embarrassing American Idol auditions.

The good news? You can build your metacognitive muscles with practice.

7 Ways to Boost Your Metacognitive Game

  1. Identify what you do and don’t know
    Ask yourself: What do I understand? What’s still confusing? What changed after that last lesson?
  2. Ask better questions
    Like: What’s most likely to be on the test? What worked for me last time? Where do I need more review?
  3. Prepare like a pro
    Planning is thinking. The more thoughtfully you prepare, the stronger your metacognition becomes.
  4. Track your performance
    Noticing where you make mistakes helps you refocus your study energy where it matters.
  5. Get feedback
    Check in early and often. Don’t wait for the final result to see how you're doing.
  6. Reflect in a diary
    Writing down your study experience helps you notice patterns, struggles, and breakthroughs.
  7. Use smart tools
    Which brings us to…

How Brainscape Supercharges Your Netacognition

Brainscape doesn’t just help you memorize stuff. It helps you think about how well you know the stuff. Every time you study a flashcard, you rate your confidence from 1 to 5. That little moment of reflection? That’s metacognition in action.

Brainscape's Confidence-Based Spaced Repetition Algorithm
Brainscape's spaced repetition algorithm at work: by rating flashcards higher (4 or 5), you'll see them less often. By rating flashcards lower (1 or 2), you'll see them more frequently. This is how Brainscape helps you attack your weaknesses while saving you time on the concepts you're confident in.

Brainscape’s spaced repetition algorithm then uses those ratings to customize your study experience. You’ll review weak areas more often and strong ones less—saving time while reinforcing what matters most. And as you recalibrate your confidence levels over time, you actually improve your metacognitive judgment.

It’s like a self-awareness bootcamp baked into your flashcards.

In summary: Think Better to Learn Better

Studying effectively isn’t about grinding longer hours—it’s about learning how to learn. Metacognition gives you the ability to assess your knowledge, plan your approach, and adapt your strategies on the fly. It’s what separates efficient learners from overwhelmed ones.

Brainscape builds this reflective process right into your study sessions. With every flashcard, you’re not only mastering content—you’re sharpening your metacognitive skills. And that’s a game-changer.

So if you’re ready to upgrade your brainpower and make the most of your study time, Brainscape is the ultimate study weapon.

Sources

Dawson, T. L. (2008). Metacognition and learning in adulthood. Northampton, MA: Developmental Testing Service, LLC.

Dunning, D. (2011). The Dunning–Kruger effect: On being ignorant of one's own ignorance. Advances in Experimental Social Psychology, 44, 247-296. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-385522-0.00005-6

Efklides, A. (2006). Metacognition and affect: What can metacognitive experiences tell us about the learning process?. Educational Research Review, 1(1), 3-14. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.edurev.2005.11.001

Fleming, S. M. (2014). Metacognition is the forgotten secret to success. Scientific American, September/October 2014, 31–37. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/metacognition-is-the-forgotten-secret-to-success/

National Research Council. (2000). How people learn: Brain, mind, experience, and school: Expanded Edition. Washington, DC: The National Academies Press. https://doi.org/10.17226/9853.

Sadler, P. (2006). The impact of self- and peer-grading on student learning. Educational Assessment, 11(1), 1-31.

Sternberg, R. J., & Kagan, J. (1986). Intelligence applied: Understanding and increasing your intellectual skills. New York, NY: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich.