Practice (learning strategy)

Practice is the act of rehearsing a behavior over and over, or engaging in an activity again and again, for the purpose of improving or mastering it, as in the phrase "practice makes perfect". Sports teams practice to prepare for actual games. Playing a musical instrument well takes a lot of practice. It is a method of learning and of acquiring experience.

Sessions scheduled for the purpose of rehearsing and performance improvement are called practices. They are engaged in by sports teams, bands, individuals, etc. "He went to football practice everyday after school," for example.

Common types of practice
Some common ways practice is applied:


 * To learn how to play a musical instrument
 * As a form of training to improve athletic or team performance
 * As rehearsing for a public performance, in theatre or music
 * To improve reading, writing, typing, grammar, and spelling
 * Upon solving math problems
 * Sparring is a form of practice
 * To maintain skill-level

Effectiveness of practice
How well one improves with practice depends on several factors, such as the frequency it is engaged in. Generally, the more one practices, the faster one improves. If a student does not practice often enough, reinforement fades, and he or she is likely to forget what was learned. Therefore, practice is often scheduled, to ensure enough of it is performed to reach one's training objectives. How much practice is required depends upon the nature of the activity, and upon each individual. Some people improve on a particular activity faster than others.

Practice as maintenance
Skills fade with non-use. The phenomena is often referred to as being "out of practice". Practice is therefore performed (on a regular basis) to keep skills and abilities honed.