Recent Academy articles.

Why is chemistry called “the central science”?

Why is chemistry called “the central science”?

Chemistry is so important for many different scientific fields. That's why it's often called the "central science". Read on for more riveting details!

11 Critical events and periods in the history of western civilization

11 Critical events and periods in the history of western civilization

Western Civilization comes from thousands of years of historic events. To understand the present, you have to understand Western history. Here's a crash course!

What are the longest-lasting empires, governments, or nations?

What are the longest-lasting empires, governments, or nations?

The world has seen some exceptionally successful societies and empires. Here are some of the longest-lasting governments and nations in world history.

The 4 most famous Renaissance artists (and Ninja Turtles)

The 4 most famous Renaissance artists (and Ninja Turtles)

For basic cultural literacy, you have to know a little bit about everything—including the Renaissance. Here are the most important Renaissance artists.

The top 5 common Spanish mistakes that gringos make

The top 5 common Spanish mistakes that gringos make

Spanish errors are easy to make, especially when you're a "gringo". Find out how to avoid some of the more common pitfalls!

25 Brain facts you should know

25 Brain facts you should know

It's no secret that our brains are complex and fascinating organs. This article shares riveting facts about your brain's gray matter.

7 Greatly Exaggerated Myths in American History

7 Greatly Exaggerated Myths in American History

U.S. history's filled with amazing events, but some of these have been exaggerated over time. Here are some of the most famous American historical myths.

Why fidgeting can help students with ADHD

Why fidgeting can help students with ADHD

We've all had a teacher who told us to sit down and stop fidgeting, but it turns out that fidgeting in class can actually help students with ADHD.

Can certain smells improve learning efficiency?

Can certain smells improve learning efficiency?

The “Proust Effect” is when memory recall is triggered by a strong unconscious reaction to a smell. Find out how aromas and smells can help you study!

Why using flashcards does not mean learning out of context

Why using flashcards does not mean learning out of context

Ah, the ol' flashcard debate. We've explained why using flashcards is still a great learning tool before. Here is another perspective on learning out of context.

The danger of studying outside the zone of proximal development

The danger of studying outside the zone of proximal development

The zone of proximal development is learning's sweet spot. Find out exactly what it is and why you learn best when you're in this zone.

Can you learn while sleeping? The relationship between studying and sleep

Can you learn while sleeping? The relationship between studying and sleep

When it comes to learning and memory, sleeping is actually one of the most important things you can do. Here's why.

Can chewing gum while studying boost your performance?

Can chewing gum while studying boost your performance?

Believe it or not, scientific research shows that chewing gum can boost your test performance—at least, as long as you do it at the right time!

Do Mnemonics & Other Memorization Techniques Really Work?

Do Mnemonics & Other Memorization Techniques Really Work?

Learning large amounts of new information can be easier if you use mnemonics for memorization. But be careful you're not wasting your time!

13 Wars in history that have shaped the world

13 Wars in history that have shaped the world

Wars and conflicts decide political boundaries, move populations, and generally shape just about everything. Here are the wars in history you should know.

Can weather affect your memory?

Can weather affect your memory?

If you've noticed your memory is worse when it's raining, it's not just you. Here's the science behind how weather affects your memory—and what you can do about it.

Does sugar help or hurt your studying?

Does sugar help or hurt your studying?

We all know that sugar is bad for our health, but did you know that consuming excess sugar will slow down your brain at the biochemical level?

How to study for the AP Chemistry exam

How to study for the AP Chemistry exam

With the right strategies, you can prepare for the AP Chemistry test and get the best possible score. Check out our favorite prep techniques and tools.

How long-term memory retention works

How long-term memory retention works

It takes a moment to forget a fact, but lots of hard work to remember it. We have a solution. Here's the fastest way to improve your long-term retention.

The connection between water & stress: Dehydration and anxiety

The connection between water & stress: Dehydration and anxiety

Water is crucial; we can't function without it. But you may not know why water is so important for our brain and our ability to learn.

8 Tips for Writing a Dissertation or Thesis

8 Tips for Writing a Dissertation or Thesis

Writing a dissertation or thesis is one of the most challenging things that a young academic faces. Don't worry: these five tips will help you get started.

How to study for the AP U.S. History exam

How to study for the AP U.S. History exam

Get that AP credit and save yourself some money. Here's five steps to killing it at the AP US History exam.

Does chess make you smarter? 10 Brain benefits of playing chess

Does chess make you smarter? 10 Brain benefits of playing chess

If you're already a lover of the game, here are some major brain benefits of playing chess. If you're not yet, perhaps it's time to start!

Why Multiple-Choice Self-Tests Are Ineffective for Studying

Why Multiple-Choice Self-Tests Are Ineffective for Studying

The U.S. Department of Education strongly recommends using active approaches to teaching in order to "promote learning and help students remember things longer".

Can you learn a foreign language by watching TV?

Can you learn a foreign language by watching TV?

Foreign languages cannot be learned from TV alone and you'll first need a base of knowledge. Here's how to get the most out of TV to learn a language.