Why do people have accents when speaking a foreign language?
Are you learning a second language? Finding that your accent hard to shake? Here's why.
Recent Academy articles.
A crash course in geography -- and how to learn more
Most people don't have a good grounding in geography, even though it's super important. Is that you? Here's how to learn Geography quickly.
9 Reasons to study geography
Geography is an overlooked, but hugely relevant and important kind of knowledge. Here are our top 9 reasons why you should study geography.
13 fun U.S. Constitution facts you should know
We were inspired by the anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution to bring you 13 fun facts about the famous document.
Dumber in the summer: How to avoid summer brain drain
Summer break is fun and vital for growing brains. But without educational stimulation students get "summer brain drain". Here's how to strike a balance.
25 Latin words used in English
Latin is long dead but still plays an important role in our lives today. Here's our list of the top 25 words we borrowed from Latin.
What's The Best Time Of Day To Study For Optimal Learning?
Is there a best time of day to study? It depends on the learner. Just remember to sleep and be well rested for optimal studying!
Foreigners may make fewer grammar mistakes than native speakers
Foreign language acquisition can be tricky. Here's why you shouldn't be too strict with explicit grammar in the beginning of your language learning.
Does learning Latin roots really improve SAT scores?
In today's college admissions environment, students look for anything to boost SAT scores. Many ask us, "Does Latin help your SAT score?" Let's find out.
The Benefits of Student Self-Assessment
Applying self-assessment practices will consistently improve your performance on subsequent tests of your knowledge. This is why.
How To Read Faster And Better
Double your consumption and retention of information with these four evidence-based methods for becoming a faster reader.
How to Really Teach Leadership in a Classroom
It's great that educators are trying to teach leadership in the classroom. But true leadership can only be learned by actually leading something.
The effects of Adderall on studying and learning
Some people use drugs like Adderall illegally, hoping improve memory, focus, and overall performance. But what are the real effects of Adderall on learning?
Is Background Noise Good for Studying?
Some people say ambient noise improves studying. Others like silence. So what's the truth? Could “distracting” noises actually help you study better?
13 U.S. history facts about the 13 original colonies
Here are some interesting facts about each of the first 13 states you might not know (and a reminder of which states were the original 13).
Getting back in the groove at school
You enjoyed relaxing during the holiday season, but it couldn't last forever. Follow these 6 tips on how to get back in the groove at school or at work.
Top 20 German words used in English
English contains a ton of words that have been adopted from other languages. Here are 20 words we borrowed from German, with translations.
3 Ways to spot an effective learner in an interview
Hiring employees that can learn effectively is essential for any company. Here are 3 things you can do in the interview to spot those good learners.
Focused Vs. Diffuse Thinking: Which Is Better For Learning?
According to recent research on learning, there are two main ways that we process information. So which is better for learning—focused or diffuse thinking?
The relationship between dreaming, learning, and memory
Sleeping prepares our minds for future learning: studies show that dreaming has a major influence on learning and even memory consolidation.
Do "Drill and Practice" Instructional Strategies Work in Education in 2025?
"Drill & practice" does not have to be a dirty phrase in education. It's up to educators to properly balance constructivism vs. behaviorism.
How to Cure Insomnia (Without Drugs)
40% of the world’s population reports suffering from bouts of insomnia. Here's how to cure insomnia forever without drugs.
How to choose a college major
With only 24% of undergrads graduating in 4 years, choosing a major is critical. Here are 5 tips to help you decide on your major.
Does Learning By Repetition Work?
Repetition is the mother of all learning. Here's why and how you can use it to double your learning speed.
The two types of flashcard users in school
Brainscape Founder and CEO, Andrew Cohen, explains how Brainscape's portable flashcard learning platform is great for these two types of flashcard users in school.