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Shatter the myth

Even college students surrounded by professors, immersed in the world of academia and at the height of their knowledge-seeking years hold some belief in myths and rumors passed along.  Here are a few common myths that have been proven false.

Myth #1. Humans only use 10 percent of their brain.

Au contraire! Over the course of the day, 100 percent of your brain is used and active, according to neurologists at the Mayo Clinic. It is, however, true that not all of the brain’s regions are active at the same time.

Tribune News Service
(Source: Tribune News Service)

Myth #2. The internet rewires your brain.

In the past, people had this same worry about books, the telephone and television. But according to the BBC, the internet isn’t altering our brains more than any other activity we may participate in.

Myth #3. Storing batteries in the refrigerator extends their lives.

This belief holds some truth as Energizer says that batteries can start to lose some capacity or become damaged in high heat. But as long as you are storing your batteries at normal room temperature, Energizer says refrigerating isn’t necessary.

Myth #4. You get a 200 on the SAT just for signing your name.

Unfortunately, the SAT College Board says this is untrue. In fact, they won’t even return scores lower than 200.

Myth #5. Sleeping with homework under your pillow will help you learn.

Don’t we wish! Sadly, your pillow does not possess this type of power. Nonetheless, a good night’s sleep can improve your cognitive performance.

Myth #6. Einstein was a failing student.

Not quite. Einstein failed one entrance exam, according to History.com. Even so, we can take comfort in the fact that even Einstein had academic struggles.

Myth #7. Coffee dehydrates you.

While caffeine is a diuretic, the Mayo Clinic says the amount present in coffee isn’t enough to pose a risk of dehydration. In addition, the amount of water in coffee or tea usually balances it out.

Shows like Myth Busters and websites like Snopes have been created to prove whether many myths are true or false.  Even so, many of us still hold on tightly to some of these tales.  You can now walk a little taller with the knowledge of these debunked myths.

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