The ability to memorise things we read, see, or hear is important for everyone. For example, if you are a student, this can be very helpful in your everyday academic life, exams, quizzes, etc.
Why do we forget things?
We forget because our brain is limited. Just like a computer hard drive, the brain has a limited amount of data it can hold, at least at a given time. Your brain protects itself from information overload by filtering what it retains.
The brain stores all new information in short-term memory. Consequently, if you don't repeat it or use it, you forget it very quickly.
According to a German psychologist, Hermann Ebbinghaus, we forget half the information just after one hour of learning something new. One day later, we remember only about 30%!
How to memorise something quickly and remember it afterward
To remember things easily, you need to put that information in long-term memory.
The very first memorisation attempt is usually not very effective in putting information in long-term memory. Also, how quickly the new information gets stored in long-term memory depends on your purpose for learning.
Here are some techniques you can adopt to memorise and remember things easily:
Do spaced repetition
When you return to the same information you have previously learned, it helps the brain understand that the information shouldn't get erased.
Here is how spaced repetition can help you memorise things quickly:
a. Repeat the information right after learning it.
b. After about 15 to 20 minutes, do a second repetition of the information.
Let your brain relax again.
Note that you don't have to sit waiting for the next repetition. You can engage yourself in other activities.
c. After about 6 to 8 hours, repeat the same information.
d. 24 hours later (after the very first time you assimilated the information), repeat the information once more.
Longer spaced repetition
By extending your memorisation plan, you can memorise information for a longer time.
a. Repeat the information right after learning it, just like in the previous technique.
b. Repeat the material after about 20 to 30 minutes.
c. The third repetition should come after 1 day.
d. The next one after 2 to 3 weeks.
e. Finally, repeat the material after 2 to 3 months.
I hope these techniques work best for you.
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