Memory Tricks – Retain, Remember, Recall
Have trouble finding your car keys? Or remembering birthdays? Or recollecting answers in an exam? You are not alone. The human brain is like a library and, instead of books, it stocks memories. The memory is the brain’s librarian and the brain has to be able to pull a memory as soon as possible. No one likes a library that loses books or puts them on the wrong shelf. Yet, sometimes we find ourselves with a poor librarian. But thankfully, there are a few things everyone can do to optimize the storage of their library of memories.
Visualize and associate
Turn a list of random words into image — this will help you remember the words better. Photographs, charts and other graphics can help in learning and retaining new information. If visual cues are not already there, then try to create your own. Draw charts or figures or highlight information in different colors to group related ideas together.
Pay attention
In order to retain information in your long-term memory, try to study in a place that is free of distracting elements such as television, music, phones, etc.
Do not cram
Don’t try to study and remember all the information in one marathon session. Studying over a period of time or over a number of sessions that will allow you time to adequately process information.
Understand basic ideas
For more complicated data, focus on understanding fundamental ideas; don’t blindly memorize isolated details. To ensure that you have understood, practice explaining the ideas to someone else in your own words.
Organize information
It has been seen that information is arranged and retained in memory in related groups. Try studying similar concepts and terms together, or make an outline of your notes so that you can group related ideas together.
Memory recollection
A mnemonic device is a little phrase or rhyme that is used as a memory tool. You can come up with a rhyme, song or joke to help remember information.
Involve senses
Try to relate facts that you are learning to various colors, textures, smells, and tastes. Reading out aloud will help you memorize. Write down whatever you have learnt — this will imprint it onto your brain.
Teach new concepts
Teaching any new information that you have learned can help in understanding, remembering and recalling it. Use this approach and teach new concepts and ideas to a friend or study partner.
Find your own methods
There is no one-size-fits-all learning style for memorizing new material. Learn it the way that works for you. Different people prefer different methods for taking in new information. Use the technique that you are most comfortable with.
Footnote
A strong memory depends on the health and vitality of your brain. The human brain has an astonishing ability to adapt and change-even in old age. Be aware that the ability to remember increases when you care for your brain with a good diet, laughter, adequate exercise and sleep.
Source: This article was originally published in Mid-Day newspaper – PDF File: Improve Memory Skills