There are many myths that have been around for many years, but no one knows where that myth came from to know if it is even true. The brain has many parts of it that have to be used. For instance, the brain helps us coordinate, balance and allow for movements. Scientists have done many different tests on the brain to determine how much is used.
They use a type of x-ray that shows the areas of the brain in use. When a person sleeps, the brain is still active. It always depends on how much of the brain is being used based upon the activity that the person is doing. It also depends on the person. So, the myth about the brain usage is actually not true.
Who wouldnt want to believe that we all have 90% of untapped brain potential in us all? Unfortunately, this is not the case. Research indicates that pretty much all of our brain is used for a variety of functions. This includes memory, visual and auditory processing, emotion, and higher cognitive functioning such as complex problem solving. Otherwise we could all afford to ride our bike without helmets and suffer head trauma without losing any brain functionality. So dont believe you have significant brain machinery that is not being used. Certainly we can improve our brain function, but this is usually through hard work and studying to get ahead in life.
Reference: Lilienfeld,S., Lynn,S.J., Ruscio, J., & Beyerstein, B.L. (2010). 50 Great Myths of Popular Psychology: Shattering Widespread Misconceptions About Human Behaviour. Chichester, UK: Wiley-Blackwell*##**##*
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