Making learning stand out and stick

Have you ever noticed how one brightly coloured object among many dull ones instantly catches your eye? Or how you vividly remember one unique question from an exam? This phenomenon is explained by the Isolation Effect, also known as the Von Restorff Effect, which shows that when something stands out from its surroundings, it is more likely to be remembered.

First identified by German psychologist Hedwig von Restorff in 1933, the effect refers to our brain’s tendency to remember distinct items more effectively than similar ones. When presented with a list of words, for example, a single word in a different colour or font is more likely to be recalled later. This happens because our brains are naturally drawn to novelty and uniqueness — the things that break the pattern.

For students, teachers, and parents, understanding the effect can transform how learning happens. In classrooms where information often blends, introducing variety helps improve attention and memory retention. When a concept, image, or experience stands out, it triggers deeper cognitive processing, helping students recall it more effectively during exams or discussions.

Real-life Applications
The effect is everywhere — in advertising (bright colours, catchy slogans), user interface design (highlighted buttons), and even storytelling (unexpected twists). In education, it can be applied to emphasise key concepts, highlight critical formulas, or make learning experiences more memorable. For instance, a teacher might use visual cues, humour, or surprising facts to make lessons stand out. Parents, too, can reinforce learning at home by using colourful flashcards, creative examples, or storytelling techniques.

 According to Ms Namita Vinayak Mer, School Counsellor at Apeejay School, Nerul, “Teachers can effectively harness this effect by making lessons visually and cognitively engaging. Using visual contrasts such as varied colours, fonts, or layouts can draw attention to key concepts, helping students distinguish important information from the rest. Incorporating novel teaching methods like role plays, hands-on experiments, or multimedia presentations can further capture students’ curiosity and make learning memorable. Additionally, teachers can emphasise ‘golden points’ in each lesson, the most essential takeaways students should focus on, ensuring these ideas stand out in their minds.”

Students, too, can use this principle to enhance their study habits. “By creating colourful, well-organised notes, using highlighters, symbols, or visual cues, they can make important information more distinctive and easier to recall,” the educator concluded.