Top 6 Memory Boosting Study Tips
Almost half of the process of studying is dedicated to the process of memorization. We know, it can be so hard fitting all those complex concepts and super long words and number in your brain. That’s why we’ve prepared 6 of the best memory boosting study tips:
6) Write It Down
These days, a lot of students like to use laptops or tablets instead of good old fashioned pen and paper. Though there are many advantages to typing, there are many cons as well such as distractions. Overall, writing actually aids in more conceptual learning. According to studies, there is deeper processing through handwriting. It is better at activating your working memory. It is theorized that this is due to the more complex movements of writing compared to typing. Read our article on handwriting vs typing for a more in-depth explanation.
5) Read Aloud
By reading out loud, you pay may more attention than you would reading silently or hearing text spoken. This is known as the production effect. The dual effect of listening and speaking makes the activity more engaging and encode the memory more strongly. Thus, you will process things your brain might skip more effective.
Interestingly, one study showed that if record your own voice and listen to it later, you will memorize the contents of that recording better too. It was theorized that it could be due to people remembering things that have their involvement better or the strangeness of hearing one’s own voice.
4)Use Mnemonic Devices
Mnemonic devices also known as memory devices are methods to help you remember complex things in an easy and simple way. This can be done in all sorts of ways through using rhyming, visuals or making acronyms. The key is to make it interesting and of course memorable. For example, to help you remember a chemistry formula, you might use the mnemonic device of the phrase oil rig. This can be deciphered into Oxidation It Loses (electrons) Reduction It Gains (electrons). The main thing is to make meaningful connections between your studying material.
3) Sleep On It
Sleep is vital to the process of memory consolidation, in essence moving short-term memory information to long-term. Thus, sleeping after studying, even if a midday power nap, actually helps you encode memories better. However in general, sleep is essential to both healthy brain functioning and emotional well-being. You need a good amount of sleep if you want to be energized enough for absorbing information. So remember to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep a day. It’s also important to note cramming up late at night is actually one of the worst ways to study.
2) Use Visuals
Bored of looking at endless lines of texts and formulas? Change it up by using visuals. Most of us prefer easily digestible images. So, to memorize things better, draw it out! Mind maps are a great way to make connections of your study material in an organized manner. Just like our tip to write down notes, the very act of drawing things out can help you memorize better. This again is due to the complex and active process of drawing that activates the brain.
1) Clench Your Fist!
This is both the easiest and weirdest memory boosting study tip. According to research, the act of making your hand into a fist will actually make you memorize things better. In the study, the group of participants who clenched their right fist for 90 seconds prior to memorizing a list of words, actually recalled them better later when they clenched their left fist. Apparently, it’s due to the fact that simple body movements will temporarily changing the way the brain functions. This particular movement activates brain regions associated with memory.
