Insight Learning

What do Einstein’s theory of special relativity, penicillin, and microwaves have in common? They were all born from sudden flashes of understanding, known formally in psychology as insight learning.^1,2 Often called “lightbulb,” “Aha!” or “Eureka!” moments, insight learning refers to the spontaneous solution to a tricky problem, appearing “magically” in our minds like a light turning on.^1,3,4 One moment we’re stumped, the next moment we’re not.

Insight learning is closely associated with Gestalt psychology; both are characterized by their suddenness. We seem to come to solutions effortlessly and unexpectedly, without using other problem-solving approaches such as trial and error, observation, or logical deduction.⁴ Non-insight learning, also referred to as analytic learning, involves gradual, step-by-step strategies while insight learning reveals complete solutions with little to no indication of how we came up with them (creating something of a “duh” moment).^3,4 Think of the classic murder mystery story: a brooding detective is painstakingly reviewing the details of a complex case, scanning the files for the hundredth time before everything just “clicks” and the culprit’s identity suddenly becomes clearer than ever. That’s insight learning (dramatically) at work. 

If you’ve ever experienced insight learning, you’re probably familiar with its emotional effects—how each realization feels. Insight generates positive emotions, such as satisfaction, excitement, or happiness once we find the solution.⁴ We also tend to feel more confident about insight-driven solutions. The emotional dimensions of insight, along with its snappiness, differentiate it from analytic learning, which is often accompanied by feelings of hesitancy and uncertainty.⁴ 

Wouldn’t it be great if answers could simply pop into our heads without struggle? Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Somewhat frustratingly, insight learning usually occurs when our other problem-solving strategies fail, and we get stuck. This period of struggle before we arrive at the conclusion is often referred to as an impasse.³ Like hitting a roadblock in the street, a figurative obstruction forces us to find alternative “routes,” leading to a mental restructuring of the problem.³ We rearrange pieces of the puzzle in our minds, allowing us to approach the problem with a new perspective. 

While there are multiple proposed models of insight learning, the most common one involves four stages: preparation, incubation, illumination (or insight), and verification.⁵ First, we have to understand the problem—gather all the puzzle pieces and know the picture they’re supposed to form. After we get stuck, the mind often enters a period of incubation in which we subconsciously restructure information. This leads to the moment of insight, after which we verify the solution by putting the pieces together to see if they fit.