From 2006 to 2014, the USA Network played one of America’s favorite TV shows every Wednesday from 9 to 10 PM. That show was Psych. Starring lesser-known actors such as James Roday and Timothy Omundson, and actresses, such as Maggie Lawson, it followed “psychic” detective Shawn Spencer, as he, along with his partner Burton Guster, solved crimes around Santa Barbara, California. Throughout its eight seasons, Psych had many funny moments, but more importantly taught viewers a few important lessons. Now take a step in and find out what Psych can teach you.

Shawn Spencer’s abilities of deductive reasoning and observation are what gives him foundation for being able to claim psychic abilities. And that’s the first lesson that we learn. Always pay attention to your surroundings. One of the classic tests that Shawn Spencer faces is the simple one of, “how many hats are in the room?” Although this may seem like such a basic question, it exemplifies Spencer’s ability to recall small details, seemingly insignificant details. As we can see in his vision, he looks back through the room and identifies all hats, and the patterns, all with his eyes closed. This may seem like such a basic question, one that doesn’t pertain to police work. But it shows that details are something that can, and should be remembered. In fact this ability allows Spencer to solve at least 121 cases, many of which are murder, robbery and even arson.

Psych also taught the importance of quick thinking. If you look on YouTube, you can see all the aliases Shawn created for his partner, and best friend, Burton Guster. These aliases usually protect their identities from criminals, and allows them to get into areas of buildings and into cases unnoticed. Shawn’s ability saved both him and Gus multiple times, which is another tool that allows them to stay alive in dangerous situations and stay alive.

I think the final thing that Psych taught me is the most cliché one, and that is the value of friendship. Shawn and Gus are best friends, who always have each other’s backs no matter what. And Psych shows that. From the episode when Gus was taken hostage in a bank, and Shawn was worried sick about his best friend, someone who he had grown up with, a constant in his life during his parents divorce. Together they are an unstoppable team, a bond cemented by some 30 years of friendship. And in the series finale, we can see how hard it is for Shawn to leave his best friend and move to San Francisco, something that becomes a lot easier after Gus makes the decision to move up to San Francisco with his best friend.

Psych is one of America’s greatest shows. And over the years it taught us, as viewers some great lessons, including the values of observation and friendship. At the end of the day, Psych is more than just a show. It’s a textbook of eight years of knowledge and experience, wrapped in a bundle of comedy and drama.