There is a widely accepted theory - proposed by psychologist George A Miller in the 1950s - that the short-term memory of humans seems capable of retaining approximately seven units of information (give or take a couple). Hence, if we want to remember more than that - and we invariably do - we need to find a way to help our brains. One method is to sub-group units of information (into groups of 7 or less) and to relate each of these to an overarching group-theme.
Once we recognise how the brain works - by making links and connections between new stuff and existing stuff - we can aid recall by "helping our brains" to make those links and connections in a deliberate way.
Mnemonics (memory aids) are useful because they can help us to "file" memories in such a way that it is easy to "find" them later on. There are lots of different ways to do this. The following suggestions will appeal to different types of intelligence: you should try to find the ones that suit you best.
ACRONYMS
(Linguistic)
Using the first letters of important or "key"-words to make a word or sentence is a useful way to remember large amounts of information.
DIAGRAMS & PICTURES
(Visual)
Often, the brain finds it easier to remember visual images rather than lengthy explanations or lists.
BODY-PEGS
(Physical)
Having learned 20 locations on your body, you can use these as "pegs" on which to "hang" the things you need to remember.
MINDMAPS
(Visual-spatial)
Information is represented on a diagram that starts with the most important facts and radiates outwards to include greater detail - organised by means of links
CONCEPT MAPS
(Visual & logical)
Information is located on a diagram in such a way that its spatial location represents its relationship to each of the other parts of the diagram.
RHYMES & RAPS
(Linguistic & musical)
The metrical form of poetry can sometimes aid recall.
DISCUSSION
(Linguistic)
Talking about ideas and issues (instead of merely hearing or reading about them) helps to make them more memorable.
SONGS
(Musical)
Songs can provides a remarkable vehicle for remembering all sorts of information and could well repay the amount of effort required to compose them.
JOURNEYS
(Spatial & physical)
Key points along a well-known journey are used as locations for "storing" items of information.
LOCATIONS
(Spatial)
Specific locations within a well-known room are used to "store" the information you need to recall.
PERSONALISATION
(Interpersonal)
It is sometimes easier to remember information if it has been linked to specific people that we know.
INTERNALISATION
(Intrapersonal)
Imagining yourself as a participant or as "a part" of the information to be learned can be a beneficial technique for some.
Click here for
a simple but effective online game that will help to develop memory skills
OTHER REVISION PAGES
Getting motivated - Planning a revision timetable - Revision techniques - Memory techniques
Make the most of your learning style - Sources of help - Exam technique