π Key takeaways
- Yes β research shows each extra year of schooling raises IQ scores by a few points.
- Mostly you get better at the specific game, with limited transfer to general intelligence.
- Good nutrition, sleep, exercise and avoiding toxins support cognitive performance, especially in childhood.
- You can improve skills, knowledge and test performance, but there are individual limits.
Does education raise IQ?
Yes β research shows each extra year of schooling raises IQ scores by a few points. Education is the most reliable way to boost measured intelligence.
Do brain-training games work?
Mostly you get better at the specific game, with limited transfer to general intelligence. The evidence for lasting IQ gains from apps is weak.
What about health and habits?
Good nutrition, sleep, exercise and avoiding toxins support cognitive performance, especially in childhood. They help you reach your potential.
What are the limits?
You can improve skills, knowledge and test performance, but there are individual limits. The Flynn effect shows whole populations can rise with better environments.
π§ Explore Intelligence
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Last updated: 2026-06-18 Β· β Reviewed by the All-Lifes editorial team Β· About Β· Methodology