When test time rolls around, many students ask themselves the same question:
“How can I study and remember everything?”
First things first—memorization will only get you so far. In order to perform your best in school, it’s important to make sure you have a meaningful understanding of a subject.
However, studying does require students to use memory in order to remember ideas, concepts, and material for test day. So, while you shouldn’t rely on cramming for a test the night before, you can take steps to improve your memory and make the most of your study sessions.
How can I improve my memory for studying?
Everything takes practice. Many students struggle with remembering facts and material because they simply don’t take the time work their mind on a regular basis. As subjects get harder, they find that their mind is unprepared to tackle the information.
Rather than asking how to memorize faster for exams, students should be learning how to use their memory more effectively while they study.
The answer? Regular study sessions.
The more regularly you review material, the better you can train your mind to remember what you have studied with much more accuracy.
On top of regularly reviewing class material, there are also some memory tricks you can use to help improve your recall for your next test.
8 Easy Memory Techniques for Studying
Try out these memorization tips for students that will help you exercise your mind and improve recall.
- Organize your space
- Visualize the information
- Use acronyms and mnemonics
- Use image-name associations
- Use the chaining technique
- Learn by doing
- Study in different locations
- Revisit the material
To improve your memory, you need to be able to focus. Distractions of any kind will prevent this, so make sure your space is clear of clutter and has all the materials you need for your study session.
Use the Method of Loci. This is a technique where you visualize a house, associating rooms in the house with bits of information. New information goes into a new room. Open a drawer to find a chemical formula. Open a closet to find the names of the bones in the foot.
Create patterns and words with from the information you need to remember. Associating the first letter of each item with a word, phrase, or rhyme, can make information easier to recall. These tricks are especially useful to help remember lists and ordered information.
Recalling names can be easier by associating images and names in a clever, unique way. Remember the names of the presidents by associating a facial feature with their name, such as ‘Mutton Chops Van Buren’.
Create a story or sentence around a bit of information so that it can be more easily recalled. Remember the order of the planets by telling a tale about them going on a picnic. The story can be silly and fun, which will make it easier to remember.
Learn information by acting it out. Using hand gestures and other movements can help you better remember information with muscle memory. If you can’t move around when studying, use your imagination to picture it in your mind.
Your memory can be triggered by different cues in your environment. If you are having trouble remembering the material you are studying, try moving to a new spot to help the information stand out in your mind.
Review the material you studied a couple days after your study session. Make a mental note of anything you have forgotten, and review those areas again.
Learning Isn’t Just About Memorization
Remember, it’s important to use these memory techniques on top of other good study habits like proper time management and organization. This will help make sure you’re not simply memorizing the material, but working toward a deeper understanding of the subject.
Need More Study Skills Help?
GradePower Learning’s Study Skills program teaches students how to develop a stronger memory and increased academic confidence.
