It has indeed been over a month since my last post. Needless to say that I encountered some unforeseen setbacks during this time. Even though it may take me slightly longer than anticipated to resume my usual activities and find new paths so as inspire and improve myself, it will all fall into place in due time. The topic for today is one that I have touched on in the past. With a twist and additional pieces of advice that is. How to memorize content for a test has never been as important as it is in today's world, where technology has made us lazier and less able to search for information properly.

 

On our daily lives, there are actions we do we do not seem to recall later on. Of course, it would be virtually impossible to remember every single thing we have done throughout our entire lives thus far. Thus, the reason why memories are divided into two kinds. Implicit and explicit memories: Implicit memories are those related with minor and mundane everyday activities. Such as washing your hands or taking out the trash. We mostly do these unconsciously. On the other hand, we have explicit memories. These are actions we consciously remember. Case in point, studying for a test, applying for a job, among others. We make an effort to remember the aforesaid. Since they have a significant impact in our lives. 

 

When it comes to memorizing academic content, many people used to believe that reading silently was the most effective way. Be that as it may, recent studies have proved otherwise. Vocal production. In other words, saying things outloud in fact delivers better results. It seems as though the fact that you are more actively aware of what you are reading makes you better able to remember. This also works for when you are following a recipe, learning to drive or doing anything that deals with steps. Another study technique that has stood the test of time is note-taking without a doubt. Even though it may be hard to follow a professor going through slides, it is worth it in the end. The process of trying to grasp the main points of a lecture and erasing unnecessary words is what helps you recall information. This has been backed up by studies as well. Moreover, contextual cues can also be used to retrieve useful information. As an illustration, imagine you are studying for a presentation at home. You decide to take a short break and eat fruit while in the middle of your session. Well, that break you took not only helped you rest and find more motivation to keep going. Your brain actually paired the fruit you were eating with the part of the presentation where you left off. Hence, giving you the extra boost you needed to perform well in class. Finally, most people believe that alternating between subjects on different days while studying will provide you the best outcome.  Even so, swiching between subjects during the same day is not a bad idea whatsoever. This technique is called the spacing effect. Taking short breaks and moving to different topics aids the brain to internalize the information in a more efficient manner.

 

In review, there are countless techiques you can use to maximize your learing. The ones listed above are but a few of the most well-known ones. Notwithstanding, I myself would add audio-recording the most crucial parts of the lecture. Since this also helps while running through your notes. Other than that, I would add yet one more of the techiques explained in the video. Memory games such as sudoku and puzzles serve as mental warm-ups. Consequently, sharpening your memory and enhancing your focus.

 

Sources:

- TopThink YouTube Channel.

- Self experience.