The Importance of Sleep for Learning

Some students believe pulling an all-nighter is worth it when studying for an important exam the next day. While studying all night may work, it is often not the most reliable -- and for good reason.

Sleep falls into two categories: non-rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM) in that order respectively (Cleveland Clinic, Sleep, 2023). In terms of memory, NREM sleep is when the brain stores memories while REM sleep is when the brain strengthens these memories.

Even though memories are stored in NREM sleep, the hippocampus is a region of the brain where memories are originally stored and is also where memory consolidation occurs. In NREM sleep, the memories from the day are replayed; and the brain chooses which ones it wants to keep (News in Health, Sleep On It, 2013). They are then stored in your long-term memory.

After your memories are stored, they are strengthened in REM sleep where newer memories are connected to older, related ones. However, the logistics behind this are still being studied. This may aid in problem-solving and critical thinking because your brain is putting together associated topics to create a bigger picture.

When I study at night, I usually doze off; and I'm pretty sure you can relate. Next time you're studying last minute, ask yourself this question: Is it worth it, or should I just go to sleep? Personally, I'm going to choose peace and go to sleep. Perhaps I'll just wake up early and refresh instead.