Hi i just have a quick question i’m hoping you can answer. When i’m doing the dual n-back training i find that there are several different methods i can use in order to do well and two of them are pretty much instinctive. But, i wonder whether what i’m doing is cheating me out of actually training my working memory as much as i could be training it if i used a different method. The most instinctive method for me is that when i hear the sounds, i repeat them to myself in the same order i heard them using my mental voice, not my mouth. I do best when i use this method, but since i sometimes actually forget the sounds unless i repeat them, it seems to me that this is more of a specific strategy my mind designed in order to do well specifically in this exercise and that the gains will not transfer to everyday activities. The second method is that i visualize the black square and the sounds exactly like i see them in the computer, i’m a visual learner and i find this method to be easiest for me, but again, i wonder if my gains will transfer in this way. The third way is that i kind of keep my mind blank and try to remember the sounds and locations just based on what i can remember, but i find it to be much harder. Which method do you think would give the best results in terms of transferring to my actual intelligence rather than just a higher score in the training? and does the method actually matter? Thanks ahead of time
-Kasra
Hello, Kasra.
People have different theories about this and it has been the focus of some debate on our blog from time to time.
In my own opinion the two methods — rehearsal and visualization vs. “blank-mind” — emphasize the strengthening of different skills. The first focuses more on developing the conscious, active application of our attention. This is great for applying rules, or “working something out” in a logical analytical way. The second method permits the “upper-subconscious” mind to work harder. This is below the level of full, active attention, but is still present. The blank-mind method will help build strength in solving problems that require lateral thinking.
I would urge using both techniques. You can switch back and forth during a session or from session to session, or apply the one that’s working better for you for a while. In my experience, the training tends to demand some flexibility in approach. If you’re feeling distracted, for instance, the active rehearsal method might be more appropriate.
Best wishes,
Martin Walker