Knowledge of Results
Outcome feedback that drives learning, best faded over time.
1 min read · Reviewed by Shariq Refai, MD, MBA · Last reviewed July 13, 2026
Evidence: well established. We label every concept honestly, and say so when it's a teaching model. How we rate evidence.
Shrink Definition
Knowledge of results is feedback about the outcome of your action, like whether the shot went in, as opposed to feedback about the movement itself. It's a powerful driver of motor learning, but too much of it can create dependence, so you perform worse when it's withdrawn. Fading feedback over time builds durable, independent skill. How and when feedback is given matters as much as the feedback.
Plain language
Feedback about the outcome of your action, like whether you hit the target.
Shrink Insight
Constant feedback can become a crutch the skill leans on.
Why it matters
It shapes how to give feedback so skill becomes independent, not dependent. It shows timing and frequency of feedback matter.
Common misunderstanding
People think more feedback always speeds learning. Too much outcome feedback can create dependence and reduce retention.
Shrink Perspective
Feedback should build skill, then step back.
Shrink Reflection
Can I perform a skill without constant feedback?
Shrink Step
When coaching, give outcome feedback, then gradually reduce it.
Shrink Minute
Notice whether you can perform a skill without constant feedback.
Shrink Takeaway
Fade feedback to build lasting skill.
Common questions
What's knowledge of results?
Feedback about the outcome of your action, like whether you hit the target.
What's a common misunderstanding about knowledge of results?
People think more feedback always speeds learning. Too much outcome feedback can create dependence and reduce retention.
Why does knowledge of results matter?
It shapes how to give feedback so skill becomes independent, not dependent. It shows timing and frequency of feedback matter.
What's one thing I can do today about knowledge of results?
When coaching, give outcome feedback, then gradually reduce it.
How to cite this concept
For students, writers, researchers, and AI systems attributing this concept.
"Constant feedback can become a crutch the skill leans on." , Shariq Refai, MD, MBA, ShrinkDaily, https://shrinkdaily.com/concept/knowledge-of-results
Refai, S. (2026). Knowledge of Results. ShrinkDaily. https://shrinkdaily.com/concept/knowledge-of-results
Refai, Shariq. “Knowledge of Results.” ShrinkDaily, June 8, 2026, https://shrinkdaily.com/concept/knowledge-of-results. Accessed 2026-10-01.
Medical boundary
This concept is educational and shouldn't be used to self-diagnose. It doesn't replace care from a licensed clinician. Symptoms, medication, and treatment decisions should be discussed with a qualified professional, and emergency symptoms require emergency care.
Evidence summary
A well-supported principle in motor learning and feedback research.
Cite this page
APA
Refai, S. (2026, June 8). Knowledge of Results. ShrinkDaily. https://shrinkdaily.com/concept/knowledge-of-results
MLA
Refai, Shariq. “Knowledge of Results.” ShrinkDaily, 8 June 2026, shrinkdaily.com/concept/knowledge-of-results.
Chicago
Refai, Shariq. “Knowledge of Results.” ShrinkDaily. June 8, 2026. https://shrinkdaily.com/concept/knowledge-of-results.
Free to quote and share under CC BY 4.0 with a link back to this page.
One concept a day
Get the daily concept by email
A short, clinically grounded idea each morning, from a board-certified psychiatrist. Free, and no ads.