Memory Techniques
The best way to learn and retain information is through repetition, learning new facts over and over again until they become a habit or routine. If you want to understand how you should store information, it's important to know how knowledge transfer takes place.
To memorize something is the first step toward retaining that information for longer periods of time. There are many different ways in which your brain can store information. Your memories are formed from three types of brain pathways. These include sensory, short-term and long-term memory (Porter & Lerner, 2006). Sensory memory refers to the storage and retrieval of information about objects that we see and feel. Short-term memory stores information on a temporary basis (about 30 seconds) before it is forgotten. Long term memory refers to information stored about 15 minutes before being lost.
The more you practice these memory techniques, the better they work and help you recall more details about what you're trying to remember. It's also important to learn how to take breaks, since frequent use of certain techniques will affect how well they work.
1. Make Lists: Make notes on everything you need to remember and then try to keep those notes somewhere where you can easily access them when needed. List all the things you plan on remembering in one list. Then, if you forget one of them, make another list and continue with this process. This method helps improve your memorization skills (Porter & Lerner, 2006).
2. Use Brain Training Games: When you play games involving thinking and problem solving, try taking out time to do so during your free time. Problem solving involves identifying problems within your environment and using creative solutions. You could take a break and just think about some of your problems from this perspective instead of doing research about their causes and solutions.
3. Try Flashcards: They may seem complicated to study, but flashcards work especially well for people who want to study by rote memorization. In order to remember and learn new information, you'll have to use this technique when studying at home.
4. Keep an Organized Mind: For instance, when reading, be organized. By following a simple rule or structure, you'll allow your mind to focus on the task at hand rather than wandering around aimlessly. Keeping a notebook and pen handy is essential for keeping track of all the ideas you've collected throughout class. Also, be sure to write down any thoughts you come up with during the course.
5. Take Breaks: Remembering new information requires you to continually make changes to your mental processes. To keep active, you must give yourself a chance to rest and refresh. Most often, taking a few moments to reset your mind through meditation or other relaxation techniques can help you retain the information for longer periods of time. For example, breathing exercises such as deep inhales and exhales can relax your nervous system (Porter & Lerner, 2006). It's difficult to stay focused and mentally alert while studying. However, there are several effective methods you can use to help you remember during your studies.
6. Find Ways to Distract Yourself: A distraction may not necessarily be something you intentionally do when trying to learn something. Some distractions simply require less concentration and effort, since they're easier to maintain. Some examples include watching TV, sleeping, chatting with friends, etc. Some forms of distracted learning include playing video games or listening to music. You always have options to avoid distractions when studying, even if you don't want to. Don't force yourself to study, because it won't work. Instead, choose a distraction and concentrate on your goals.
7. Get Enough Sleep and Exercise: Proper sleep and exercise can help stimulate your memory, since both activities affect how quickly your mind operates. In addition, proper sleep and exercise allow your body to replenish itself between short bouts of activity, meaning that the amount of glucose you consume decreases and energy levels increase. As a result, you wake up refreshed, which allows your mind to switch gears back to higher activity levels such as learning.
8. Avoid Alcohol: Although alcohol has been shown to increase your attention span, there's no evidence that drinking too much can actually help improve retention rates for information. If you drink alcohol, it's best to stick with moderate amounts and refrain from heavy drinking in order to reduce overall dependency.
9. Limit Your Stress Levels: According to a recent scientific study, stress overload can interfere with the functioning of our brains, including our ability to learn new material. Many of us find ourselves under a lot of pressure at times, and it can cause a negative effect on how ready we are to handle study material. Try practicing self-care for a short period of time each day. Do your homework, read a book, calm down and meditate periodically. Resting and calming your body will ease tension and anxiety. Taking care of yourself physically and emotionally in your daily life will lead to greater enjoyment.
10. Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water every day helps prevent headaches and keeps your body hydrated. Being dehydrated can negatively affect your concentration abilities and slow reaction times. Consume plenty of water, or replace half your fluids with juice. The recommended amount of fluid intake per hour for adults is two tablespoons. Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining balance, staying focused and avoiding fatigue.
