Learning Preferences Workbook
Self-Discovery & Study Skills
Major Update
Inventory & Study Strategies
Learning Preferences
Discover How You Learn, Study, and Show What You Know!
Visual
See It • Organize It • Remember It
Pictures, diagrams, mind maps, color coding, and visual demonstrations.
Auditory / Verbal
Hear It • Talk About It • Make Sense of It
Discussions, talking through steps, podcasts, partner sharing, and audio review.
Reading / Writing
Read It • Write It • Organize It
Written directions, structured notes, outlines, flashcards, word lists, and summaries.
Hands-On / Kinesthetic
Do It • Build It • Experience It
Physical practice, interactive labs, building models, and real-life activities.
Core Workbook Focus
Identify Your Preferences • Find What Works • Build Strategies for Success
Tests Assignments Teaching Strategies Study Skills Career Connections
Grades 7–12 | Print-and-Go PDF | Student + Teacher Pages
Educator Framework
Teacher Guide
A practical self-awareness tool — not a fixed learner label.
Purpose
Help students notice patterns in how they prefer to receive, process, practice, and demonstrate learning. Results are a starting point for reflection, not a reason to limit students to one method.
Four Preference Areas
Preference Approaches & Core Modalities
Visual
Pictures, diagrams, models, charts, color, spatial organization (clear layouts), demonstrations.
Auditory / Verbal
Listening, speaking, discussion, verbal explanation, talking through ideas.
Reading / Writing
Written directions, notes, lists, textbooks, definitions, written responses.
Hands-On / Kinesthetic
Doing, building, practicing, moving, simulations (hands-on trials), real-world tasks.
Suggested Use
Students complete the inventory, transfer scores to the scoring page, total each category, graph the results, and use the profile and strategy pages to build a personal learning plan.
Important Interpretation
A high score means the student reported a stronger preference for that approach. It does not mean the student can only learn that way. Encourage students to build strategies across all four areas.
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Student Self-Assessment
Learning Preferences Inventory
Circle the number that best describes you.
Name:
Date:
Scoring Scale Guide
1 Not like me
Hardly ever true for me when I learn
2 A little like me
True sometimes or in certain classes
3 Usually like me
True most of the time when learning
4 Very much like me
This is definitely how I learn best
There are no right or wrong answers. Answer based on what is usually true for you. Be honest with yourself to find your best learning tools.
How to Complete This Inventory
- Read each statement carefully across the next 4 pages (40 items total).
- Circle one number from 1 to 4 for each question.
- Do not overthink — trust your first reaction about what feels most natural!
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Part 1 of 4
Learning Preferences Inventory
Items 1–10 | Circle the number that best describes you.
1 = Not like me • 2 = A little like me • 3 = Usually like me • 4 = Very much like me
Statement
1234
1 I remember information better when I can see a picture, diagram, or example.
1 2 3 4
2 I understand directions better when someone explains them aloud.
1 2 3 4
3 I like having written directions I can read more than once.
1 2 3 4
4 I learn best when I can try something myself.
1 2 3 4
5 Charts, graphs, maps, and timelines help information make sense to me.
1 2 3 4
6 Talking about a topic helps me understand it.
1 2 3 4
7 Taking notes helps me remember important information.
1 2 3 4
8 I would rather build, show (demonstrate), or practice something than only read about it.
1 2 3 4
9 I notice details in pictures, layouts (how things are arranged), and demonstrations.
1 2 3 4
10 I often remember things I heard someone say.
1 2 3 4
Score each statement: 1 = Not like me • 2 = A little like me • 3 = Usually like me • 4 = Very much like me
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Part 2 of 4
Learning Preferences Inventory
Items 11–20 | Circle the number that best describes you.
1 = Not like me • 2 = A little like me • 3 = Usually like me • 4 = Very much like me
Statement
1234
11 I like making lists, outlines, or written summaries (short recaps).
1 2 3 4
12 I understand a new task faster after I physically practice it.
1 2 3 4
13 Color-coding notes helps me organize information.
1 2 3 4
14 I like class discussions and question-and-answer activities.
1 2 3 4
15 I prefer assignments that clearly explain expectations in writing.
1 2 3 4
16 Labs, simulations (practice trials), and real-world activities help me learn.
1 2 3 4
17 I like seeing an example of a finished product before starting.
1 2 3 4
18 I sometimes talk myself through a problem to figure it out.
1 2 3 4
19 I learn new vocabulary well by writing definitions and examples.
1 2 3 4
20 I like assignments where I can create or make something.
1 2 3 4
Score each statement: 1 = Not like me • 2 = A little like me • 3 = Usually like me • 4 = Very much like me
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Part 3 of 4
Learning Preferences Inventory
Items 21–30 | Circle the number that best describes you.
1 = Not like me • 2 = A little like me • 3 = Usually like me • 4 = Very much like me
Statement
1234
21 I picture information in my mind when trying to remember it.
1 2 3 4
22 Reading information aloud can help me remember it.
1 2 3 4
23 I would rather read information than listen to a long explanation.
1 2 3 4
24 Sitting still for a long lesson makes it harder for me to stay focused.
1 2 2 4
25 I like visual organizers (like diagrams or webs) that show how ideas connect.
1 2 3 4
26 I enjoy explaining what I know to another person.
1 2 3 4
27 I am comfortable showing what I know through written answers.
1 2 3 4
28 I like role-play, demonstrations, or practice scenarios (acting out examples).
1 2 3 4
29 I find it helpful when a teacher writes key points where I can see them.
1 2 3 4
30 I remember information from conversations and discussions.
1 2 3 4
Score each statement: 1 = Not like me • 2 = A little like me • 3 = Usually like me • 4 = Very much like me
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Part 4 of 4
Learning Preferences Inventory
Items 31–40 | Circle the number that best describes you.
1 = Not like me • 2 = A little like me • 3 = Usually like me • 4 = Very much like me
Statement
1234
31 I like reviewing study guides, notes, and written examples before a test.
1 2 3 4
32 I remember steps better after I have actually performed them.
1 2 3 4
33 I like assignments that include images, design, diagrams, or visual organization.
1 2 3 4
34 I would enjoy recording a presentation, podcast (audio recording), or spoken explanation.
1 2 3 4
35 I like research, reading, journaling, or report-writing assignments.
1 2 3 4
36 I prefer projects connected to real jobs or real-life situations.
1 2 3 4
37 When solving a problem, drawing it out can help me.
1 2 3 4
38 When I am confused, I prefer to ask someone to explain it.
1 2 3 4
39 When I am confused, I prefer to reread directions or look for written information.
1 2 3 4
40 When I am confused, I prefer to try the task and learn from what happens.
1 2 3 4
Score each statement: 1 = Not like me • 2 = A little like me • 3 = Usually like me • 4 = Very much like me
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Scoring & Analysis
My Results
Add your points for each category. Then graph your totals.
Learning Preference Item Numbers Total Score
Visual
1, 5, 9, 13, 17, 21, 25, 29, 33, 37
/ 40
Auditory / Verbal
2, 6, 10, 14, 18, 22, 26, 30, 34, 38
/ 40
Reading / Writing
3, 7, 11, 15, 19, 23, 27, 31, 35, 39
/ 40
Hands-On / Kinesthetic
4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 28, 32, 36, 40
/ 40
Graph Your Results
40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0
Visual
Auditory
Read/Write
Hands-On
Visual Auditory Read / Write Hands-On
My strongest preference:
My second strongest preference:
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Preference Profile 1 of 4
Visual Preference Profile
See it. Organize it. Remember it.
Visual
What Often Helps
Pictures, diagrams, models, graphic organizers, color coding, demonstrations, and written key points.
Assessment Formats That May Feel More Natural
Diagram labeling, matching, visual interpretation (reading charts or pictures), maps/charts, organized written tests with examples.
Formats That May Require Extra Strategy
Long oral-only (spoken only) directions or tests with no visual reference or written words.
Assignment Ideas
Infographics (visual posters), slides, timelines, concept webs, illustrated vocabulary cards, and step-by-step flowcharts.
Teaching Approaches
Model the task; show finished examples; display key words on the board; use diagrams and graphic organizers.
Study Strategies
Turn notes into diagrams; color-code main topics; sketch step-by-step processes; use flashcards with pictures.
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Preference Profile 2 of 4
Auditory / Verbal Preference Profile
Hear it. Talk about it. Make sense of it.
Auditory
What Often Helps
Discussion, spoken explanation, questioning, reading aloud, verbal rehearsal (saying it out loud), explaining ideas.
Assessment Formats That May Feel More Natural
Oral (spoken) responses, presentations, interviews, discussion checks, talking through solutions.
Formats That May Require Extra Strategy
Dense visual information (pages packed with text/charts) or silent testing without a chance to whisper or talk through ideas.
Assignment Ideas
Podcasts (audio recordings), speeches, debates, partner interviews, recorded explanations, teaching a classmate.
Teaching Approaches
Explain ideas aloud; ask students to restate directions in their own words; use class discussion and think-pair-share.
Study Strategies
Explain the topic out loud; teach someone else; record short voice memos of key points; read notes aloud.
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Preference Profile 3 of 4
Reading / Writing Preference Profile
Read it. Write it. Organize it.
Read/Write
What Often Helps
Written directions, notes, bulleted lists, definitions, reading passages, rewriting ideas, summaries, organized text.
Assessment Formats That May Feel More Natural
Essays, short answer questions, vocabulary quizzes, written responses, tests with clear written directions.
Formats That May Require Extra Strategy
Performance tasks (acting out or demonstrating skills) when expectations are not clearly written down.
Assignment Ideas
Reports, journals, summaries, research projects, written reflections, annotated readings (notes in the margins).
Teaching Approaches
Provide written directions, clear headings, checklists, note outlines, vocabulary lists, and model examples.
Study Strategies
Rewrite notes in your own words; make study outlines; write sample quiz questions; summarize sections; review vocabulary.
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Preference Profile 4 of 4
Hands-On / Kinesthetic Profile
Do it. Build it. Experience it.
Kinesthetic
What Often Helps
Practice, physical movement, building, physical objects, simulations (practice trials), labs, real-world application.
Assessment Formats That May Feel More Natural
Demonstrations, performance tasks (showing how to do a task), science labs, projects, hands-on problem solving.
Formats That May Require Extra Strategy
Long sedentary tests (sitting still for hours answering multiple-choice questions) or lectures with no hands-on practice.
Assignment Ideas
Physical models, experiments, role-play, job simulations, demonstrations, prototypes (working models), real-world builds.
Teaching Approaches
Show a live demonstration followed by student practice; connect skills to real tasks; include activity stations and labs.
Study Strategies
Practice the real skill; use manipulatives (hands-on tiles or objects); sort cards into piles; act out steps.
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Toolkit & Methods
Study Strategies
Actionable study tools tailored for each learning preference
Visual
Turn notes into diagrams; color-code categories; draw processes; use image-based flashcards.
- •Use charts, graphs, and graphic organizers
- •Color-code notes and study materials
- •Create mind maps or concept maps
- •Use images, diagrams, and visual models
- •Watch videos or visual demonstrations
- •Turn information into pictures or infographics
Auditory / Verbal
Explain the topic aloud; teach someone else; record summaries; read notes aloud.
- •Talk through ideas and explain them out loud
- •Teach the material to someone else
- •Use group discussions or study groups
- •Listen to audio recordings or podcasts
- •Create and recite verbal summaries
- •Read notes, instructions, or key points aloud
Reading / Writing
Rewrite notes; make outlines; create written questions; summarize sections; use vocabulary lists.
- •Take organized, detailed notes
- •Make outlines or study guides
- •Write summaries in your own words
- •Create and use vocabulary lists
- •Read and reread key information
- •Complete practice questions in writing
Hands-On / Kinesthetic
Practice the actual skill; use manipulatives; sort cards; create models; act out processes.
- •Use hands-on activities and real materials
- •Build models or prototypes (working samples)
- •Practice through labs, simulations, or role-play
- •Use manipulatives (objects) or sort flashcards
- •Move, act out, or physically demonstrate ideas
- •Work on real-world projects or applied tasks
Different strategies. A stronger you!
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Cross-Modal Learning
Same Skill — Four Ways to Practice It
One skill. Multiple ways to learn!
Skill Visual Auditory / Verbal Read / Write Hands-On
Learn new vocabulary
Create a picture or graphic.
Say the words aloud.
Write definitions/examples.
Use word cards or sort terms.
Understand a process
Make a flowchart.
Explain each step aloud.
Write numbered steps.
Act out or perform the steps.
Study for a test
Create a visual review.
Quiz with a partner.
Rewrite notes / guide.
Use stations or hands-on practice.
Show what you know
Create a poster/slideshow.
Give an oral presentation.
Write a report/essay.
Build a model or complete a project.
There is more than one way to be successful!
Learn • Practice • Explore • Grow
Plan • Practice • Try Different Ways • Keep Going
Same Skill. Different Ways. Bigger Success!
Learn • Create • Explore • Practice • Succeed!
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Testing & Assessment
Test Strategy Guide
Succeed even when the test is not your preferred format.
Preference When the format is difficult Try this
Visual
Multiple choice Underline key words; sketch a quick diagram; organize scratch work spatially (give each problem its own box).
Auditory / Verbal
Silent written test Mentally say the question; paraphrase it (put it into your own words); rehearse (practice) an answer in your head.
Reading / Writing
Performance task (hands-on test) Write the steps first; make a quick checklist; create a short written plan before starting.
Hands-On / Kinesthetic
Long written test Break the test into sections; track your progress; connect questions to real-world examples.
Universal Test Strategies
Read directions carefully.
Mark key words.
Answer easier questions first.
Eliminate clearly incorrect choices.
Use scratch paper.
Check your work.
Practice in the format you will be tested in.
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Adaptation & Flexibility
When Your Teacher Doesn't Teach the Way You Prefer
Strong learners adapt information into a form that helps them.
Classroom Format
Mostly lecture (teacher talks)
•Sketch key ideas.
•Take structured notes.
•Connect ideas to real examples.
•Summarize aloud afterward.
Classroom Format
Mostly reading (textbooks/articles)
•Turn headings into a concept map.
•Read important parts aloud.
•Annotate (highlight & jot notes).
•Create study cards or models.
Classroom Format
Mostly hands-on (activities/labs)
•Watch the demonstration closely.
•Repeat steps aloud to yourself.
•Make a step-by-step checklist.
•Practice and repeat the task.
Classroom Format
Mostly visual (slides/diagrams)
•Explain the visual in words.
•Write what each part means.
•Recreate, redraw, or reorganize the information.
Learn • Adapt • Practice • Succeed
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Action & Goal Setting
My Learning Plan
Set goals. Choose strategies. Take action!
Name:
1 Step 1: My Results
My strongest learning preference(s):
My secondary preference(s):
Areas I want to strengthen:
2 Step 2: Strategies I Will Try (Check all that apply)
Use visual organizers (charts, diagrams, etc.)
Talk through my notes or explain to someone else
Rewrite my notes in my own words
Use hands-on activities or real-life examples
Take movement breaks while studying
Try a new test-taking strategy
Ask for clarification when needed
3 Step 3: My Goal
My goal is to:
I will reach this goal by:
Know yourself. Build your strategies. Reach your goals!
Small Steps. Big Progress! • Believe • Practice • Improve • Achieve
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Reflection & Self-Awareness
Student Reflection
Think about your results and what you will do next.
1. What surprised you about your results?
2. Do your results match how you thought you learned? Explain.
3. Which classroom activities help you stay engaged and focused?
4. What kind of assignment makes it easiest for you to show what you know?
5. What kind of test or assignment is most challenging for you? Why?
6. Choose one strategy from this packet you will try before your next test.
7. Why is it useful to be able to learn in more than one way?
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Instructional Planning
Teacher Class Profile
Look for patterns. Vary instruction. Do not permanently label students.
Student Visual Auditory Read/Write Hands-On
Different Learners. Stronger Together.
Plan • Teach • Inspire • Support • Empower
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
Real-World Relevance
Career Connection
Workplaces require people to learn and communicate in many ways.
Preference Workplace Examples
Visual
Blueprints, diagrams, dashboards, digital layouts, maps, demonstrations.
Auditory / Verbal
Staff meetings, customer conversations, job interviews, phone calls, verbal instructions.
Reading / Writing
Work emails, training manuals, reports, workplace safety rules, work orders.
Hands-On / Kinesthetic
Equipment operation, tool repairs, food preparation, lab procedures, construction.
Career Reflection
1. Choose a career you are interested in:
2. How might that career require you to use all four learning approaches?
My Future. My Way.
Skills • Knowledge • Experience • Opportunity
Explore • Discover • Plan • Prepare • Succeed
Different Ways of Learning. Big Opportunities!
Learn • Practice • Grow
Learning Preferences: Inventory & Study Strategies
