Some of us can be better at picking it up than others, but if you want to thrive as a dancer, you will have to learn how to pick up choreography.  Being able to learn and absorb choreography quicker gives us a boost of confidence, it also allows us more time to focus on our approach and being in the movement. Here are a few ways to train yourself to pick up on choreography quicker:

Take Class

The key to learning anything is repetition.  The more you are learning in class, the better your mind will retain choreography.  Our mind and bodies need repetition to connect to each another in memory.

Staying in class and learning choreography, both repetitively and consistently, strengthens the connection between your mind and your body.  This in turn strengthens the capacity for your memory and also helps your brain connect movement sequences cognitively.

Stand in the front 

It's simple; it’s easier to learn where you have a full view of whoever is teaching.  So if you want to learn better and quicker, you should stand in the front. Standing in the front can also help overcome things like stage fright and low self-esteem.

Remember the dance in sections

Remembering in phrases (or eight counts) can be a really great way to improve learning.  Think about each phrase or eight count as it’s own section.  Get it down, give it a name or a lyric and move on to the next.

Give yourself your own cues 

Teachers like to throw out a “bad-a’da-TAAAA” or a "swish" or some other silly term to label a movement while they’re teaching.  These are known as cues.  They help dancers remember what comes next. You can make and give yourself your OWN cues to help you retain choreography. This will make things easier and smoother on your mind when you'r dancing.

Close your eyes 

When you close your eyes, the other senses thrive.  Muscle memory is created when a feeling is recognized in the body.  Your body’s physical memory of the movement may improve if you try closing your eyes.  Just make sure you’re tuned in to those around you so no one gets hurt. ;)