Memory is one of the most important components of human cognition.
It gives us the ability to navigate such complex tasks as comprehension, reasoning, and learning, which is crucial for continued academic progress.
If you have any problems with taking in information, processing it, storing it, or retrieving it when necessary, you simply cannot do without outside help.
However, it doesn’t mean that you should not try to enhance your memory, because you should, as it is essential for your academic success. So take advantage of the following strategies that can help you with that!
1. Use multiple formats.
If you want to better understand and memorize instructions given by your teacher/professor, you need to use both, visual and verbal formats. So write down verbal instructions and read aloud those that are presented in visual format.
2. Use handouts prepared by your teacher/professor.
Use handouts your teacher/professor gives you before oral lectures to identify the most important information and to correctly organize it in your notes for better remembering.
3. Use retrieval practice when studying.
After you have learned something by hearing it from your teacher/professor or reading it in a book, try to bring this information to mind.
Please note, ‘after’ doesn’t mean ‘immediately.’ Wait at least a little, and then retrieve this information.
4. Review material before bed.
A good night’s sleep following your studies positively affects your ability to retain information. So if you want to cement knowledge in your brain, always review new material before going to sleep.
5. Use substitute word system and visual images.
If you cannot remember some words, especially when learning a foreign language, use a substitute word system and visual images for better remembering.
It may include associations, familiar words and sounds, visualizations, etc.
6. Write down steps when solving problems.
Whether it comes to math or word problems, you need to write down all steps in your calculations. This will prevent you from losing track of what you are doing.
7. Do physical exercise.
It’s not a joke. You need to do physical exercise, as it reduces stress hormones and helps your brain stay sharp.
Aerobics, tennis, golf, and yoga are especially useful for brain boosting.
8. Over-learn new information.
To perform one error-free repetition of new information is not enough if you have any problems with your memory. You need at least several error-free repetitions for better remembering of the new material.
9. Make notes when reading.
Make notes, underline, and highlight the most important information when reading.
You may also make graphics and create outlines that can help you remember the recently read material.
10. Use acronyms and mnemonics for memorizing.
To use acronyms and mnemonics that can easily be remembered is always a wise idea. For example, ROY G. BIV stands for Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Indigo, and Violet (visible color spectrum).
These simple yet effective strategies can help you enhance your memory. Apply them when studying, and you will definitely see the difference. After all, your memory is a highly valuable asset, so don’t forget to protect and develop it.
Stock Photo from Bojan Milinkov @ Shutterstock
