Which condition enhances the benefits of mental practice in skill acquisition?

The condition that enhances the benefits of mental practice in skill acquisition is practice when motivated. When individuals are genuinely motivated, they are more likely to engage fully with the mental practice process. Motivation fuels focus, attention, and the mental imagery needed to reinforce and improve skills. This heightened engagement allows for deeper cognitive processing of the skills being practiced mentally.

Motivation can lead to increased persistence and resilience, encouraging individuals to work through challenges and setbacks, which further cements the skills being learned. When a person is motivated, they are more likely to visualize success, understand the mechanics of the skill better, and connect emotionally with the outcomes they desire. This emotional connection can significantly enhance the effectiveness of mental rehearsal by creating a stronger memory trace.

In contrast, conditions such as practicing during downtime or without a specific goal can limit the effectiveness of mental practice since they may not encourage the same level of focus and engagement. Practicing only under pressure may lead to anxiety and hinder the benefits of mental practice rather than enhance them, as it can detract from the clarity and relaxation needed for effective skill visualization.