Back to techniques
Contextual Interference
Practice multiple skills in random order rather than blocked practice to enhance learning.
Practice30-45 min
The Science Behind It
High contextual interference (random practice) forces the brain to continuously reconstruct action plans, leading to stronger, more flexible skill acquisition than blocked practice.
How It Works
Understanding the cognitive mechanisms
- 1Random practice prevents autopilot learning
- 2Forces active reconstruction of skills
- 3Builds discrimination between skills
- 4Enhances retention and transfer
Practical Implementation
Step-by-step guide to apply this technique
Key Benefits
What you'll gain from mastering this technique
- Improves skill retention by 40%
- Enhances ability to select correct skill
- Builds flexible, adaptable performance
- Better prepares for real-world application
Supporting Research
Scientific evidence backing this technique
Random practice improved retention by 43% compared to blocked practice
Shea & Morgan, 1979 - Journal of Experimental Psychology
Contextual interference enhances motor and cognitive skill learning
Brady, 2004 - Perceptual and Motor Skills