Memorize vs Understand

Memorize vs Understand

When it comes to learning—whether it’s art or anything else—there’s a big difference between memorizing and truly understanding. I learned this while studying to become a sommelier, and it completely changed how I approach doodling.

Memorizing is surface-level. You take information and try to store it in your brain without digging deeper. Understanding, on the other hand, is about asking why. It’s about breaking things down, finding the root of the information, and really making it your own.

How Wine Taught Me to Understand

When I first started studying wine, I tried to memorize facts: which grapes came from which region, and what types of wine they made. But nothing stuck, and I started to feel like I wasn’t smart enough to become a sommelier.

That’s when I shifted my approach. Instead of memorizing, I started to understand. For example, Bordeaux wine is divided into the left and right banks. Memorizing which bank is known for Merlot and which for Cabernet Sauvignon wasn’t enough—I wanted to know why.

Here’s what I learned:

• The left bank has gravelly soil that drains well and holds heat. This makes it perfect for 

Cabernet Sauvignon, a grape that ripens slowly and needs warmth.

• The right bank has clay and limestone soil, which holds moisture and stays cooler. This works

well for Merlot, a grape that ripens faster and doesn’t need as much heat.

By understanding the why, I didn’t just remember the facts—I internalized them. They made sense, so they stuck with me.

How This Applies to Art

The same thing happened with drawing. At first, I tried to memorize anatomy and techniques, but I kept forgetting. My sketches felt stiff and inconsistent.

When I switched to understanding, things changed. Instead of memorizing how to draw a hand, I studied how hands work: the bones, joints, and how they move. Instead of copying hairstyles, I learned how hair grows and flows.

Understanding gave me freedom. When I know the “why,” I don’t need to rely on references as much. I can draw from my imagination with more confidence because I’m building on a solid foundation.

Why Understanding Matters

Understanding goes beyond memorizing—it connects you to the deeper why. Whether you’re studying wine or practicing art, taking the time to break things down and dig deeper helps you retain more, learn better, and grow in your craft.

So next time you’re struggling, ask yourself: “Do I really understand this?” Dig deeper—you’ll thank yourself later.