Deliberate Practice: What Is It and How Can I Use It?

Abstract Deliberate practice is a popular concept in sport and performance domains. Performers and practitioners in these domains are eager to understand and use deliberate practice to improve their performance, but there are no easily accessible guides available to help explain how to apply the concept. We provide such a guide. Our guide includes four key concepts for understanding deliberate practice, seven principles for applying this concept, and four common pitfalls to avoid when dealing with deliberate practice. Examples are provided to aid understanding and application for performers seeking to improve technical and mental skills, as well as consultants attempting to enhance professional skills.