Which of the following best captures the essence of metacognition?

The essence of metacognition is best captured by awareness of one’s own cognitive abilities and limitations. Metacognition refers to the knowledge and regulation of one's own thinking processes. This includes understanding how you learn, what strategies work best for you, and recognizing when you do not understand something or when you need to adjust your approach to learning or problem-solving.

This awareness allows individuals to monitor and control their cognitive activities, which can lead to more effective learning and problem-solving strategies. For example, a student who understands that they struggle with memorization might choose to employ mnemonic devices or spaced repetition techniques to enhance their study habits. This self-awareness is fundamental to the practice of metacognition, making it a critical skill in academic and everyday contexts.