x min read
Introduction
Memorizing something can either be what we call “lightwork” (another way of saying easy) or a never-ending pain that just seemingly never goes away. It happens to the best of us. Any day now, that exam of yours will pop up and you just can’t get any of the information in that textbook to stay in your head.
I know how that feels.
So, what if we could “memorize anything”? What if we could memorize any piece of information that we stumbled upon? Wouldn’t that be great?
In today’s blog post, I’ll be providing a few strategies, and some actionable steps that you can employ ASAP to really test these bad boys out.
Disclaimer
I figured that I’d mention that depending on how interested you are in the concept that you aim to memorize deeply, the following strategies may be easier or harder than expected.
For instance, if I was studying a concept online that intrigued me very much, would it be a surprise if it stuck in my head for several weeks on end right after stumbling upon that specific piece of information?
No, of course not.
Ultimately, if you’re studying and trying to master something that holds little value in your heart, it will be more difficult than you would’ve wished for originally. So, if that’s you, then be willing to work and “grind”.
Strategy #1: Chunking Information
Ever had a huge packet of 17 pages to get down within a night for the next morning?
Sucks, doesn’t it?
I know that feeling all too well. But, it doesn’t have to be bad. Overwhelming amounts of information can easily be made more manageable through a process called “chunking”.
Definition
Chunking is the breaking down of large data sets into smaller, coherent groups. With it, you can focus on the understanding of relationships between these chunks to facilitate recall.
For example, if you need to get down a history textbook chapter fast, you can use this by (1): breaking down the main concepts and sub-concepts in the chapter, (2): noting down information regarding those general and specific concepts.
Of course, it’s more complicated than simply creating a list and calling it a day. For that reason, I suggest incorporating AI.
I know, I know. Using artificial intelligence sounds like cheating, but it’s not. It’s smart.
At the end of the day, what would you rather do:
- List the concepts, read the chapter, and write everything yourself (which can take hours)
OR:
- Leverage AI to do it for you
The choice is easy. It’s easy because I know what I’m saving: my time.
How to Use AI For Chunking
- Access the digital file/text that you aim to break down. Sometimes, this may be readily available digitally (e.g. PDF, Google Docs). For the instances in which it isn’t (e.g. a textbook, paper packet), I suggest taking a photo of the text on your phone and copying the text that’s there. Nowadays, most up-to-date phones are able to do this; and so, if you aren’t able to, consider using a software or app to do it for you.
- Create an account for OpenAI’s ChatGPT (if you haven’t already), and paste all your text.
- As a side note, if the text file is too large, it likely won’t register in just 1 message. You may have to spread them across several messages.
- After pasting your text, ask GPT to condense down the information in however way you’d like.
As a prompt idea, consider this:
“[text]
Break down all the content above in order from the concepts mentioned. Be sure to include general information as well as specific information on any of the concepts mentioned that need more background information.”
Strategy #2: Active Learning
Active learning is what transforms you from a passive recipient into an active participant. This technique involves dynamic involvement with the material, fostering a deeper understanding, and enhancing memory retention.
In order to effectively do this, you can attempt any of the three following methods:
- Engaging in Discussions: Whether this be with peers or through self-dialogue, participating in a discussion promotes the active processing of information. Explaining concepts aloud or debating different viewpoints actives various cognitive processes, reinforcing your grasp on the subject matter.
- Teaching the Material: Imagine that you are teaching a concept on anything to someone, unless you prefer to do it legitimately. Teach it in a way that makes sense to you, and in a way that would also make sense to someone else who has absolutely no knowledge on that topic at all.
- Active recall is what helps your brain recall information at random and use them to answer questions and solve problems.
- And if you really want to be tested, attempt to explain it so well that a five-year-old could understand it. It won’t be easy, but it’ll prove how knowledgeable you really are in a subject.
- Solving Problems: This is the most commonly used form of recall. You’re already used to it by now if you are a student. Teachers teach you a topic, and then provide an assignment, quiz, test, or some sort of assessment in order to see how well you know a concept (or to get you to
- If you use this method well, it can serve you well. Just be sure not to go too hard on the questions either. If there isn’t enough information or context in regards to a specific concept in the topic that you’re testing yourself on, don’t expect to know it. You have to learn to walk before you can run.
Strategy #3: Multisensory Engagement
This is probably the most creative one here. The human brain thrives on sensory experiences. By engaging multiple senses during the learning process, you can create tapestry of memory cues that enhance recall.
Before going all-out in any of the methods listed below, be sure to first confirm what type of learner you are. Do you learn better with reading text, viewing images, watching videos, listening to audio, participating in a hands-on activity, or through anything of the same matter?
Visual Learning:
For this type, I suggest utilizing visual aids, spanning various options such as diagrams, mind maps, or infographics. These representations help in organizing information spatially, and aiding in comprehension and memory.
Auditory Reinforcement:
Here, I suggest listening to lectures, educational podcasts, or recorded readings. Together, they provide an auditory dimension to learning. From personal experience, I would suggest noting down or just briefly brainstorming what is said.
Tactile Interaction:
This involves actively using your sense of touch by using hands-on activities; whether that’d be through interactive simulations, tactile materials, or practical applications. Tactile engagement enhances memory through physical experience. After all, why else do you think you do labs in science class?
Combining Them ALL:
For the best results, combine them all. View images, watch videos, listen to lectures, and participate in hands-on activities. Engrain the knowledge you absorb from these inclusions and engrain them into your brain. That way, you won’t ever forget what you just learned.
For example, if I were reviewing for a history exam, instead of blatantly reading a history chapter from a textbook (which in my opinion, is a terrible idea if you’re doing it on its own), you should instead combine the knowledge you absorb from the reading, -and make it easier to consume through chunking- watch a video explaining it in even more depth on YouTube, looking at images online, and downloading a short activity packet online to complete.
Although it’s a lot, it’s worth more than just reading. Plus, if you get creative enough, it can even be fun!
Strategy #4: Repetition & Review
As a warning, this is the most boring and time-intensive option here. I’m just going to put this here for those who have a lot of time to spare, and are willing to lose some of their time to master the concept that they’re studying even more.
Repetition involves exposing yourself to the same information multiple times. Regular exposure strengthens neural connections, making the information more accessible.
For the best results, incorporate spaced repetition, a technique that involves reviewing information at increasing intervals.
Very similarly is periodic review (ensuring that the information you learned moves from short to long-term in your memory), which is what you’ll be repeating; the repeated process of reviewing whatever you must review.
For the Best Results…
Review a topic and then quiz yourself on it through active recall. I know, I know, “but I’ve already done this method!”
I hear you. Ultimately, if you prefer not to use this strategy, feel free not to. As a matter of fact, I suggest not attempting this method if you are truly interested in having time to yourself. I sure know that I wouldn’t want to throw 3 hours every single day just to study for one test that is weeks away.
But again, if you wish to use this, then feel free to do so. Remember, this is on memorization, NOT how to study.
Conclusion
Incorporating chunking, active learning, your 5 senses, and spaced repetition into your study routine can transform your ability to memorize anything effectively. With consistent practice, you’ll unleash the full potential of your memory, making the process of mastering new information more seamless.
You don’t need to master them all, you only need to master one (depending on what your subject serves best of course). Don’t ever be fooled that you need to continue switching in between study techniques just because it may work.
If it’s working now, don’t change it.
