12 Study Techniques Supported by Educational Research

5. Dual Coding (Combine Words and Images)

Dual coding pairs verbal explanations with complementary visuals. When words and images work together, learning improves because the brain processes material through two channels. Use simple diagrams, timelines, or labeled drawings that match short written summaries. Avoid cluttered slides that repeat every sentence in text form while a teacher reads them aloud; that redundancy can reduce learning. Instead, create a sketch or flowchart for a process, then annotate it with concise bullet points. For note-taking, translate a paragraph into a quick diagram and a one-sentence summary. Visuals should clarify, not distract—choose or draw images that capture the main relationships or sequence of steps. Dual coding is especially useful for processes, timelines, and systems. The method helps you form richer memory traces and offers alternate routes to recall during tests.