The theory that practice makes perfect is a popular one, but recent research has shown that this is not always the case. In fact, experts suggest that the right kind of practice is what really matters when trying to optimize learning and increase skills.
One study looked at how Mozart’s improvisational ability changed over time. Initially, Mozart was able to improvise successfully only on tape. After several years of practice, however, he became even better at improvisation live onstage. It turned out that the key ingredient to his success was deliberate practice—he had developed his skill by practicing in a deliberate way multiple times per day.
Practice isn't just important for expert performers like Mozart; it's also critical for novice learners. One study found that students who practiced puzzles closely until they got them right learned better than those who practiced them less closely or never practiced them at all. The closer students came to getting the puzzle right, the more efficient their brain became