Ever been in the middle of a conversation and thought of the perfect comeback… five hours later? Or maybe you’ve stared at a puzzle, sure the answer is right there, but your brain feels like it’s buffering. I get it. Thinking faster isn’t just about speed—it’s about training your brain to process information more efficiently. And the good news? Just like a muscle, your brain can be trained.
I’ve spent way too much time solving riddles, tackling brain teasers, and testing my logic against tricky puzzles, so let me share some fun (and scientifically backed) ways to speed up your thinking.
1. Play Mind Games (Literally)
If you love puzzles, you’re already on the right track! Logic puzzles, Sudoku, chess, and strategy games force your brain to work quickly under pressure. The more you practice, the faster your brain gets at recognising patterns and finding solutions.
Try this: Set a timer when you do puzzles and gradually shorten it. Speed + accuracy = a mental workout!
2. Stop Overthinking (Easier Said Than Done)
Raise your hand if you’ve ever spent 20 minutes picking a movie, only to end up watching nothing. Analysis paralysis is real, and it slows you down.
Instead, train yourself to make quick decisions by setting time limits. For example, give yourself 30 seconds to pick a meal at a restaurant or 10 seconds to decide which route to take. This builds confidence and teaches your brain to process options faster.
3. Learn to Read Faster (Without Skipping the Good Parts)
Speed reading doesn’t mean skimming and missing half the plot twists. It’s about training your eyes and brain to absorb information more efficiently.
Try this: Use your finger or a pen to guide your reading. Your eyes will naturally follow, helping you read faster while keeping comprehension high.
Bonus tip: Try summarising what you just read in one sentence. This strengthens retention and forces your brain to process key details quickly.
4. Train Your Brain with Memory Challenges
Faster thinking isn’t just about quick decisions—it’s also about recalling information in a snap. Memory games can help, whether it’s remembering names at a party or recalling that random fact about octopuses having three hearts (yes, really).
Try this: Play the “shopping list” game. Start with one item, then add another while repeating the previous ones. See how far you can go before your brain taps out!
5. Get Physical – Move That Brain!
Exercise isn’t just good for your body—it’s a secret weapon for your brain. Physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, improving reaction time, memory, and cognitive function.
If you’re feeling mentally sluggish, go for a brisk walk, do jumping jacks, or even just stretch. Your brain will thank you.
6. Master the Art of Power Naps
Ever stare at a problem for hours, take a short break, and suddenly—bam!—the answer appears? That’s because your brain is still working in the background.
A quick 10–20 minute nap can boost alertness and problem-solving skills. Just don’t oversleep, or you’ll wake up more confused than before.
7. Fuel Your Brain Like a Genius
What you eat affects how fast your brain works. Junk food = sluggish thinking. Brain food = quick wit.
Stock up on:
- Omega-3s (salmon, walnuts) for brain health
- Blueberries for memory
- Dark chocolate (yes, really!) for focus
- Water—because dehydration slows your thinking more than you realise
8. Get Comfortable with Pressure
Sometimes, thinking fast is about being comfortable in high-pressure situations. Ever notice how some people stay calm and sharp under stress? That’s a skill.
Try this: Play fast-paced games where quick thinking is required. Trivia, reaction-based apps, or even debating silly topics with friends (like whether cereal is a soup) can help train your brain to work faster under pressure.
9. Use Mental Shortcuts (AKA, Think Like Sherlock)
Your brain loves patterns. The more you train it to recognise them, the faster you’ll think.
For example, instead of calculating “97 + 45” the hard way, break it down:
- 97 is close to 100, so add 3 first → 100 + 45 = 145
- Subtract the extra 3 → 142
Boom. Faster thinking with less effort.
10. Practice, Practice, Practice
Thinking faster isn’t about being born a genius—it’s about training your brain daily. Set challenges, push your limits, and have fun with it!
And if you want a fun way to test your skills, check out the puzzles and brain teasers on my site. Nothing gets your brain in top gear like a tricky riddle staring you down!
What’s your favourite brain-training trick? Let me know in the comments!
Loved this! I’ve always been the slow thinker in the group, but now I’m setting time limits on my decisions. No more 30-minute debates over which takeaway to order—just straight to pizza every time! 😂