Quick Tips - Maximizing your Memory

Learning and memory are closely linked. The modal model of memory includes several stages, which depend on paying attention and being mentally engaged:

Stage 1. Acquiring information (called Working or Sensory memory)
Try this:

• Think about the material (comparing, analyzing, processing), to keep the material in your conscious mind

Stage 2. Storing information for later use (called Short-term, and Long-term memory***)
Try this:

• Organize material, so it can be "found' in your mind
• Repeat, visualize, rehearse information for better retention

***this is where information needs to be before writing an exam

Stage 3. Accessing memories when required (called Retrieval)
Try this:

• Practice using the memorized material, which leads to fast and accurate retrieval, and reduces forgetting

Go to the Improving Your Memory module for more strategies.

Neuroscience research has determined:

1. Memory for an event or information is most likely if

• there is a heavy emotional component OR
• there are multiple exposures to the material ie., it becomes familiar

Tip: preview information before class, make notes, review after class

2. Quiet time for "consolidation" is required for memories to move into long- term storage.

Tip: Study or read 50 minutes, take a 10 minute break. Repeat, take a longer break

3. Our need for sleep increases during times of intense learning and memorizing.

Tip: Get 8-9+ hours sleep during exams or other high-demand periods

4. Drinking even 1-2 alcoholic drinks can impair all stages of memory, especially the transfer of information from short-term to long-term memory.

Tip: drink moderately, avoid binging, don't party during the week or exams

5. Recall of material is improved by mimicing your learning environment.

Tip: Consider your eventual "working" conditions (e.g. exam hall or clinical setting, your desired mental or psychological state) when you are learning

 

 

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