[dkersten]

I’ve experimented with nootropics and I came to the conclusion that the best way to improve your mental ability is:

Sleep

Exercise

Diet

And then everything else like nootropics

In that order. That is, they certainly work and help but they’re a micro-optimisation so there’s not much benefit if you’re not doing the macro ones first and sleep, in my opinion and anecdotal experience is at the very top of that list.

[koonsolo]

This is also my experience that sleep has the most impact. Not only does it impact my mental ability, it also impacts my mood, and therefore my productivity of wanting to work.

I don't know about the order or exercise and diet, but they are definitely on there.

[she11c0de]

Those are my exact conclusions too after doing a lot of research and experimenting. I may add that high intensity exercise seems to work best for the brain. I'd also add stress to this list - people underestimate how big it's impact can be nowadays.

[dkersten]

You're absolutely right about stress, in my experience. I missed that one, but its so true.