The Cone of Learning illustrates that the approximate amount of information retained by reading is:

The Cone of Learning, developed by Edgar Dale, portrays various learning methods and their effectiveness regarding information retention. According to this model, reading is shown to lead to a retention rate of about 10 percent of the information. This emphasizes that while reading can convey information effectively, it is one of the least effective methods if the goal is long-term retention.

In this context, the 10 percent retention figure underscores the importance of using a variety of teaching methods to enhance learning and memory retention. Combining reading with other activities, such as listening to lectures, engaging in discussions, or applying hands-on practice, can significantly improve the overall retention of information. Thus, acknowledging that reading alone tends to yield only a limited retention potential is essential for developing effective teaching strategies.