Practice makes perfect is a standard American saying that encourages students to work hard. And practice is, of course, very important! Kobe Bryant is a famous example; as one of the NBA’s most famous basketball stars, he shoots 300 made shots every day as part of a rigorous practice routine.

But practice alone is not everything. A study at Scientific American notes how DNA, opportunity, character, and intelligence could be factors behind success.

With English learning, a focus on achieved goals, a paced schedule, and reflection are also extremely helpful in achieving fluency. Practice is only successful when time and effort are guided towards set targets, not simply used in meaningless repetition.

Source: Practice Doesn't Always Make Perfect – Scientific American.

Image: Keith Allison