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What Are the Functions of the Left Brain?

Dulce Corazon
Dulce Corazon

The human brain is divided into two hemispheres — the left brain hemisphere and the right brain hemisphere — with each one controlling different modes of thinking. While the right side controls intuition and feelings, the left side of the brain is responsible for logical thinking. It is where the ability to analyze concepts, ideas, and facts often comes from. Through the left brain, individuals learn to communicate, do math problems, remember details and events, and formulate strategies. Another one of its functions is acting as a storage place for names, and all the information gleaned from daily life.

As the area responsible for logical thinking, the left side of the brain allows individuals to know the consequences of each action, no matter how big or small. It gives people the capability to understand how things work and the things needed to make those things work, thus giving them the ability to conduct scientific experiments. Anything that deals with logic and common sense is all processed in the left brain. Essentially, this side of the brain is all about details and the information on what to do with those details.

The left side of the brain handles logic and reasoning.
The left side of the brain handles logic and reasoning.

Considered the center for communication, the left side of the brain is generally where knowledge of speech is derived. It is where words are put together and arranged in different combinations to form language, which is then communicated to the mouth for speaking, and to the hands for writing. Formulating solutions to mathematical equations is also being processed in this side of the brain, thus making it act as a built-in calculator inside the brain. With these functions in science and math, it is often deemed as the center of all human knowledge.

Damage to the brain's left hemisphere can affect the crucial Broca’s and Wernicke’s areas.
Damage to the brain's left hemisphere can affect the crucial Broca’s and Wernicke’s areas.

Remembering details about things, events, and other people is another function of the left brain. These little details and facts are often used when individuals come up with ideas or establish truths. These facts give them the knowledge to create patterns and solutions for problems that arise on different occasions.

The left side of the brain is also considered the database of names for people, objects, animals, events, and concepts. It usually associates these things with certain words and terms already stored in its memory. Through this side of the brain, individuals have the ability to identify the things around them, making them capable of understanding and learning new things. Strategic planning also originates from the left brain, allowing individuals to perform simple things. These range from planning what to do after waking up to making bigger plans like achieving goals within the next few months.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Functions Does the Left Brain Perform?

Those with left brain injuries may need to learn to write with their left hand.
Those with left brain injuries may need to learn to write with their left hand.

Analytical and logical information is largely processed by the left brain. It is the area of the brain that aids in problem-solving, categorization of information, and language and communication. It is linked to more structured, logical thinking as well as the organization of facts and data and attention to detail. In addition, it aids with pattern recognition, contrast, and conclusion-making.

How Does Behavior Relate to the Left Brain?

Our behavior is significantly influenced by our left brain. It aids in the development of our capacity for thinking and problem-solving as well as our capacity for communication and the expression of our thoughts and ideas. Additionally, it aids with decision-making and long-term planning. The left brain is also in charge of understanding and expressing emotions, as well as interpreting body language and facial expressions.

What Benefits Can a Strong Left Brain Offer?

Having a strong left brain has several advantages. It may aid in problem-solving, rational thought, and future planning. Additionally, it may improve our ability to grasp difficult concepts, speak more clearly, and realize how things relate to one another. Furthermore, a healthy left brain may make us more organized, more focused, and better able to recall specifics.

What Are the Drawbacks of a Weak Left Brain?

Communication, problem-solving, and decision-making may be more difficult with a weak left brain. Additionally, it may be more difficult to see patterns, make inferences, and grasp abstract ideas. It may also make it more difficult to plan, organize, and recall specifics.

What Are Some Techniques to Strengthen the Left Brain?

There are numerous methods for enhancing left brain function. Getting more practice in solving puzzles and problem-solving exercises might improve one's capacity for reason and inference. The capacity for successful communication may also be enhanced by exercising communication skills through reading, writing, and speaking. 

The left brain may be strengthened by exercising organizational abilities, including classifying data, making timetables, and establishing objectives. Finally, performing crossword puzzles or other activities that call for concentration and attention to detail, like playing board games, may enhance memory.

Discussion Comments

anon1005212

Very helpful, thanks.

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    • The left side of the brain handles logic and reasoning.
      By: Athanasia Nomikou
      The left side of the brain handles logic and reasoning.
    • Damage to the brain's left hemisphere can affect the crucial Broca’s and Wernicke’s areas.
      By: WavebreakmediaMicro
      Damage to the brain's left hemisphere can affect the crucial Broca’s and Wernicke’s areas.
    • Those with left brain injuries may need to learn to write with their left hand.
      By: narstudio
      Those with left brain injuries may need to learn to write with their left hand.