The ability to memorize 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 and quizzes, etc.
In this article we would be looking Ways to memorize things easily using Repetition Techniques
Why do we forget things?
We forget because our brain is limited. Just like the computer hard drive, the brain has a limited amount of data it can take, at least at a giving time. Your brain protects itself from information overload.
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 memorize something quickly and remember it afterwards
To remember things easily, you need to put that information in long term memory.
The very first memorization attempt is usually not very effective to put information in the long term memory. Also, how quickly the new information gets stuck in the long term memory depends on your purpose for learning.
Here are some techniques you can adopt to memorize and remember things easily:
1. 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 memorize 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 things.
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.
2. Longer spaced repetition
By extending your memorization plan you can memorize 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 3rd repetition should come after 1-day
d. And the next one after 2 to 3 weeks.
e. And finally, repeat the material after 2 to 3 months.
I hope you find this article helpful as well as interesting.
