Unlocking Practical Intelligence: The Real Path to Becoming Smart

Have you ever thought about how to become smart? Often, we hear that it takes 12 years of school, 4 years of college, and 6 years of graduate school. After all this education, however, many people still struggle to find stable jobs. The silver lining? You’ll be able to craft impeccable Reddit posts about your situation. But what if becoming smart is easier than you think?

Contrary to popular belief, intelligence isn’t solely determined by genetics or traditional education. If you compare yourself to other animals, you’re already way ahead. For most people, wanting to get smarter translates to acquiring useful skills, particularly those that are financially rewarding. It also means developing problem-solving abilities and understanding complex subjects, partly for monetary gain and partly for personal satisfaction. Moreover, we want to communicate effectively—smart enough to earn respect but not so much that we’re labeled as nerds.

The problem with much of the advice online is its vagueness. Philosophical guidance can be so abstract that it’s only practical for a handful of people. On the other hand, the specific advice available often boils down to the same tired recommendations: eat brain foods, drink coffee, exercise, get more sleep, take IQ tests, and listen to classical music. While these can be beneficial, true learning demands more active engagement.

What’s the real key to getting smarter? Reading. Fiction can help you read faster and expand your vocabulary while immersing you in dialogues that mimic real conversations. Many, however, prefer non-fiction for its ability to equip you with intriguing facts you can share in conversations. The goal is to introduce knowledge without being condescending, allowing others to learn from you and see you as both intelligent and approachable.

Finding the right books is easier than you might think. Instead of sticking to the same recommended reads, think about a topic that interests you—like cleaning. Search for books on that topic, and you might stumble upon valuable resources.

Once you have the book, the next step is crucial: practice what you’ve learned. Our brains retain information when it’s actively used. Read about cleaning? Go clean a room. Learning about car maintenance? Visualize yourself performing the tasks, watch videos, and imagine the scenarios.

The same principles apply to more abstract subjects. For instance, if you’re learning about cell biology, try creating real-life scenarios where that knowledge is essential. Imagine yourself in a situation where you need to identify cell parts to survive—like hanging off a cliff, relying on your understanding to save you.

Textbooks remain one of the most effective ways to learn. They offer concise information with practical questions that mimic real-world applications. While they might not be as entertaining as videos, they’re designed to make you smart, fast.

Remember, true learning involves applying knowledge and convincing your brain of its importance. That’s the essence of becoming smart in a meaningful and practical way.