Study This

The Tortoise Wins!

Can your child forgo a small toy today in exchange for a big one tomorrow? When she makes a promise, can you count on her to keep it? If so, a new study says a bright academic future may be ahead.

When it comes to academic success, natural intelligence may not matter as much as forbearance and self-discipline, according to a recent study in the journal Psychological Science that measured the IQ, study habits, and personal fortitude of more than 300 students. In particular, the ability to delay gratification was characteristic of good students.

But who helps cultivate this trait—parents or teachers? “We don’t know, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it was some kind of cooperation,” said study co-author Angela Duckworth, a doctoral student at the University  of Pennsylvania.

—Alan J. McCombs