Skip to Main Content

Study Skills for Neurodivergent Students

Spatial-visual Intelligence

  • Strengths: Think in images and diagrams, excel in visualising concepts.

  • Study approaches: Use mind maps, graphic organisers, draw diagrams and visual representations of concepts, watch educational videos.

  • Tools: Educational apps with visual learning elements, drawing tablets for note-taking, virtual reality simulations.

  • Careers:Architect, designer, urban planner, pilot, surgeon, artist, animator.

Study Skills for Spatial-visual Intelligence

  • Mind map magic: Use mind maps to visually organise information, create diagrams to represent complex concepts, and sketch out key points.

  • Colour your studies: Highlight notes with different colours, use colour-coded flashcards, and create visual timelines for historical events.

  • Visualise success: Imagine yourself calmly answering exam questions, picture yourself mastering complex concepts, and boost your confidence.
  • Mind map mania: Create colourful mind maps that visually represent connections between concepts, use diagrams and charts to break down complex information, and sketch out key points visually.

  • Colour your world: Organise materials by colour code, highlight notes with different colours, and use spatial arrangement (e.g., grouping related materials) to enhance memory.

  • Visualise your space: Create a designated study space with clear organisation, utilise visual organisers like corkboards or whiteboards, and personalise your space for motivation.
  • Create visual aids: Utilise mind maps, diagrams, or flashcards to represent information visually, engage your spatial memory for improved focus and recall.

  • Find a visual study space: Organise your surroundings with clear lines of sight, minimise clutter, and use calming visual elements like nature scenes or artwork.

  • Utilise visualisation techniques: Close your eyes and visualise yourself successfully focusing on your studies, imagine yourself mastering the material with clarity.
  • Sketch and illustrate: Draw diagrams, charts, and visual representations of concepts.

  • Use mind maps with colours and images: Incorporate pictures, symbols, and spatial organisation to enhance memory.

  • Create visual summaries: Compile key points into infographics, timelines, or concept maps.

  • Take visual notes: Sketch key points, capture important diagrams, and use spatial cues for organisation.
  • Map your ideas: Utilise mind maps to visually organise thoughts, sketch diagrams to represent complex concepts, and create infographics to summarise key points.

  • Paint with words: Use descriptive language to evoke imagery, appeal to the reader's senses, and bring your arguments to life.

  • Visualise success: Imagine yourself crafting a powerful essay, picture your writing flowing smoothly, and boost your confidence in the process.

  • Use technology wisely: Explore mind mapping apps, utilise visualisation tools for brainstorming, and leverage graphic design elements to enhance your essay's visual appeal.
  • Mind map mastery: Use mind maps to visually organise research topics, brainstorm potential sources, and map out the structure of your paper.

  • Colour code for clarity: Categorise sources by colour, highlight key sections visually, and create visually appealing reference lists.

  • Draw connections: Develop diagrams or concept maps to represent complex research findings, visualise data analysis, and enhance understanding.

  • Utilise visual tools: Explore infographics, timelines, or other visual aids to represent your research findings and engage your audience.

Tools and Apps

Mind mapping:

  • Miro: Collaborative online whiteboard for creating visual mind maps and diagrams.
  • Mindly: Create beautiful and intuitive mind maps on your device.
  • Coggle: Simple and intuitive mind mapping tool for quick brainstorming and note-taking.

Concept mapping:

  • Lucidchart: Create flowcharts, concept maps, and other visual organisation tools.
  • XMind: Powerful and versatile mind mapping and brainstorming tool.

Visual note-taking:

  • Notability: Handwritten notes, annotations on PDFs, and multimedia recording capabilities.
  • Nebo: Convert handwritten notes to text, add diagrams, and collaborate with others.

3D Design & Modelling:

  • Onshape: Free cloud-based CAD software for 3D modeling and design, useful for engineering and science projects.
  • Meshmixer: Open-source 3D modeling software with tools for editing, repair, and optimisation.
  • Tinkercad: Beginner-friendly platform for creating simple 3D models and learning basic design principles.

Virtual Reality & Simulations: