9 best memorization techniques to boost your memory

Introduction

Ever fumbled for a client’s name during a presentation, or got blank about the status of the critical report deadline? It happens to the best of us. With so many culprits, such as an overwhelming workload, putting off work, and countless distractions, memory mishaps are bound to happen, making the mastery of effective memorization techniques crucial.

By incorporating powerful memorization techniques into your daily routine, you can transform your memory from unreliable to remarkable, allowing you to retain key details, impress clients, and soar ahead in your career.

Why is memorization necessary?

Memorization might seem outdated, but it’s still essential. It builds a foundation for deeper learning, boosts efficiency by providing quick access to key details, and enhances fluency in any field. Here’s why:

• Memorization builds a strong foundation for knowledge
• Memorizing key details allows for quicker recall, making you more efficient, especially in fast-paced environments
• Memorization allows for smoother knowledge application
• A strong knowledge base, built through memorization, frees up mental space for creativity
  recalling information builds self-assurance

What is the process of memorizing?

Human memory measures information retention over time but isn’t a recording device. It is more like a dynamic system whose formation relies on the complex functioning of various brain structures. 

Harvard describes the memory working as, “memory operates according to a “dual-process,” where more unconscious, more routine thought processes (known as “System 1”) interact with more conscious, more problem-based thought processes (known as “System 2”).”

However, when it comes to memorizing information, our brain undergoes a four-step process when exposed to information. 

1. Attention

Attention is the first step of the memory process. And our sensory receptors are the prime agents of this process. When you are bombarded with tons of information, these messengers start running to help this information reach your brain.

However, they hold onto this input for seconds until your brain consciously perceives it for your undivided attention. The information only moves to the next stage if your brain discards and filters out this piece.   

2. Encoding

In this stage, your brain tries to make sense of the perceived information and encodes it into either short-term/immediate or long-term memory. Information is encoded via either (or more) of these four methods:

• Visual encoding: the way something looks 
• Acoustic encoding: the way something sounds
• Semantic encoding: the context or meaning of something
• Tactile encoding: the way something feels

3. Storage

Storage refers to how, how much, where, and for how long the encoded information is stored. Moving any information from short-term memory to longer takes deliberate actions via effective memorization techniques (discussed in the next section). Because if you want information for an unlimited duration, you need to keep up at the right spot for later retrieval. 

4. Retrieval 

Retrieval is accessing the information stored in our long-term memory when we need it. It is a parameter that describes how well you paid attention, encoded, and stored the information. During memory retrieval, our brain recalls the exact neural activity recorded during encoding. To stay updated with the information, revisit or recall it regularly.

5. Additional step: Forgetting 

Our brains prioritize storing important information and letting go of less crucial details. Over time, if information isn’t used or rehearsed, the connections between neurons weaken, making it harder to retrieve.

However, forgetting is only sometimes permanent. By revisiting information and strengthening those connections, we can improve our ability to recall it later.

Utilize the power of deep work to exercise your memorization muscles for better retention.

9 best memorization techniques for memory boost

Having better memorization power is a general asset of an individual. However, for working professionals in the business world, it is an invaluable skill to have. 

Fortunately, countless memorization techniques can speed up your brain’s processing and improve your capacity to retain information longer. 

Verbal memorization techniques

Tired of forgetting names, dates, or key details at work? Verbal memorization techniques can be the solution you are looking for. These strategies leverage the power of words and language to transform fleeting information into long-lasting memories.

1. Chunking

Chunking is the memory technique of breaking down large and complex information into smaller and digestible chunks. This approach removes the overwhelmedness associated with information overload, making it easier to process, understand, and remember the information. 

Information recall is easy when broken down into parts: your phone number, grocery list, or technical data. Similarly, in your workplace, suppose you have multiple tasks to handle. You can remember them by project type, deadline, or priority for that matter. Whatever feels right.

2. Elaboration

Elaboration or elaborative encoding links new information to already-known concepts, knowledge, and experiences. By establishing relationships, professionals tend to achieve deeper understanding and remember information for longer. 

For example, when learning a new marketing strategy, do not just memorize it. Instead, try linking it to a successful competitor campaign to understand its practical application.

3. Spelling mnemonics

Spelling mnemonics, somewhat similar to chunking, is a great strategy to help you memorize information. Using the first letter of each keyword, you can form an acronym for large information or groups. Some of the examples include – 

• KPI – Key Performance Indicators
• SMART – Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-based
• SWOT – Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Strengths
• PPM – Project Portfolio management
• WBS – Work Breakdown Structure

4. The Feynman technique

The ideology behind Richard Faynman’s approach is to leverage the power of teaching by demystifying complex information and explaining it to someone else. Especially considering them as laymen ( even if imaginary) with no prior knowledge. 

For example, when learning a new software feature, try explaining it to your colleague with no experience with the platform. That way, you will make efforts to solidify and refine your understanding of the concept and identify gaps in it. 

Visual memorization techniques

Our brains are wired to process visuals exceptionally well. By incorporating these visual memorization techniques into your routine, you can transform complex information into a vibrant mental gallery, boosting your recall and making learning an engaging experience.

5. Visualization

The human mind responds to visual data 60000 times better than text. You can leverage this technology to enhance your memory record by creating mind images using pictures, graphs, charts, diagrams, or scenes. This technique boosts your spatial memory. 

Gantt charts are real-time data visualization tools. You can easily measure project progress, set task dependencies, and highlight critical paths to commit them to your memory.

6. The Leitner system

The Leitner system is a spaced-out memorization technique for enhancing long-term retention in individuals. In contrast to rote learning, this technique exposes the brain to information in shorter and more frequent intervals. By doing this, you save your brain from tedious and ineffective efforts. 

Duolingo, a language learning app, employs this method to learn languages. Spacing out lessons gives your brain enough time to encode and store the information for easy retrieval.

7. Flashcards

By creating flashcards, you can narrow down your focus to essential chunks. You can use different colors and add titles and subtitles to retain the information in your memory. If you do not like creating physical cards, you can even use project management tools like ProofHub to create digital ones.

ProofHub’s stickies are similar to flashcards. You can add quick, actionable items, birthday reminders, links, important phone numbers, and more.  You can even choose to change the stickies’ color for easy categorization. 

8. The method of Loci

The University of Pittsburgh defines the method as – “The Memory Palace technique is a memorization strategy, based on visualizations of familiar spatial environments to recall information. “Loci” is the Latin term which means “places” or “locations”.”

These places could be anything you are already familiar with: your office building, break room, desk, meeting room, elevator, or something else. 

For example, you can assign a visual cue to each section in your office while preparing for a presentation. You can even sequence the locations for better recall and revisit these to trigger your memory.  

9. The Cornell Method

If you are someone who loves to write things down, then this technique is best for you. When we write down important pieces of information, it encourages its active processing in the brain. You can even refer back to them anytime. 

With ProofHub’s notes, you can capture everything visually and boost your memory. You can keep it for your personal use or even add additional subscribers for collaboration. The color code option facilitates better organization and segmentation.  

Biggest challenges to memorization

When your brain memory is sharp, productivity improves, decision-making becomes sharper, and problem-solving abilities become a breeze.

Some of the challenges that impede the brain’s ability to pay attention, encode, store, and retrieve are:

1. Distractions

While in the office or working remotely, various distractions, such as emails, meetings, chatter, etc., can disrupt concentration. 

In a poll run on LinkedIn, we found that 44% of individuals consider distractions the primary obstacle to memorization.

This constant shift of attention at work impairs the brain’s memory function.

Read more: How to avoid distractions at workplace

2. Insufficient sleep and stress

“Current sleep research has shown that sleep may be associated with memory consolidation and emotional regulation, and a lack of sleep may adversely impact these,” said Dr. Abhinav Singh, MD, the medical director of the Indiana Sleep Center. 

Lack of adequate sleep and chronic stress often diminish an individual’s cognitive functions. They negatively impact their ability to concentrate and retain information for longer. 

Read more: Feeling stressed at work- symptoms, causes, and solutions

3. Competing priorities

Balancing countless meetings, tasks, and responsibilities can make memorization daunting. Also, prioritizing which information to focus on and retain can be a major struggle when everything seems important. 

4. Procrastination

This is a major problem for every individual. When people delay memorizing information or do not make efforts to engage actively with information or knowledge, to begin with, they experience poor information retention.

5. Work overload

Work overload is one of the major issues that makes professionals struggle with memorization. They hustle to manage their time and concentrate on all memory-related activities.

6. Constant information influx

The sheer volume of information can overwhelm anyone’s brain capacity, especially working professionals. This constant influx of information from various resources can cloud their memory.

Choosing the right technique to memorize things fast

Everyone has different learning styles, and memorization is no different. 

That is why the key to effective memorization is discovering what complements your preferred style and works best for you. 

Here are the four major types of learners. Find out what type of learner you are. 

1. Visual

If you prefer processing information through images, videos, charts, diagrams, and spatial organization, you belong to this category. These type of learners organize their thoughts and ideas visually and even seek powerful visualization and observation to retain important details.

2. Auditory

Auditory learners find the best understanding of sound and verbal communication. They are both effective listeners and communicators. They comprehend better when information is communicated acoustic, like in meetings, sessions, and seminars. Podcasts, webinars, and audio recordings are also beneficial to them. 

3. Reading/writing preference

These are the learners who prefer to read and write to memorize better. This allows them to analyze, evaluate, and absorb crucial information from dictated information or reading materials. These users hold the greater capacity to retain a lot of information. 

4. Kinesthetic

Also known as tactile learners, these individuals better grasp concepts through hands-on experience and physical activity. Their memorization skills function optimally when they actively participate in the learning process. 

Explore our guide on brainstorming techniques to generate creative ideas and deliver excellence

Tips for memory improvement 

While no doubt the above methods yield powerful results, here are some additional tips to keep your brain healthier and agile:

1. Get enough sleep and exercise

Sleep improves the ability to recall complex events. During sleep, your brain consolidates all the events and memories. Sleeping 7-8 hours each night is essential to optimizing memory functions. A sleep-deprived individual impairs an individual’s ability to concentrate. 

2. Limit alcohol and caffeine

Excess alcohol consumption disrupts the brain’s function and interferes with the memory formation process. So, be mindful of your alcohol intake practices. Also, caffeine affects sleep quality, especially when consumed in the afternoon and evening.

3. Eat a healthy diet

A study finds, “A balanced diet was associated with better mental health, superior cognitive functions and even higher amounts of grey matter in the brain — linked to intelligence — compared with those with a less varied diet.”

What you consume greatly impacts your ability to think and memorize. Consuming healthy foods like milk, cheese, fish, and eggs and avoiding natural sugar, refined sugar, and saturated fats promote long-term memory functions. 

4. Manage stress

Jill Goldstein, a professor of psychiatry and medicine at Harvard Medical School, says, “Stress affects not only memory and many other brain functions, like mood and anxiety but also promotes inflammation, which adversely affects heart health.”

So, to deal with stress, engage in stress reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, cardio, or deep breathing exercises. It helps you improve concentration and focus in your routine life. 

5. Actively recalling information

Don’t be passive in your approach to consuming information. By this, I mean actively engaging when understanding a concept. This will strengthen your memory pathways and enhance retention. 

ProofHub: a valuable tool for enhancing memory and information retention

Since you now know all the effective ways to remember things, do not underestimate the contributions memorization tools can make to improving your memory. 

ProofHub, with its comprehensive and robust features, creates an environment for you to support your memory. It supercharges your memory improvement journey. 

Let’s find out how ProofHub empowers memory improvement at work:

• Centralized knowledge base: ProofHub creates a central knowledge base for all your assets, such as documents, notes, files, meeting agendas, etc. You can return to its interface for quick reference and retrieve necessary information. This results in reduced cognitive load and improved recall.
• Task management: With its transparent approach to task management and deadlines, ProofHub presents a clear work picture to everyone. It helps reduce mental clutter and frees up working memory space to memorize important details. 
• Discussion boards: Discussion plays a major role in deepening understanding and knowledge in a working environment. When team members share experiences, ask questions, and hold each other accountable, concepts are better understood and memorized. 
• Task reminders: Setting up task reminders helps users stay updated with the current workflow. This ensures they never miss any crucial information, improving focus and memory. 
• Visual aids: ProofHub’s visually pleasing interface appeals to visual learners. Its colorful yet intuitive visual tools, such as charts and diagrams, enhance memorization.
• Workload management: ProofHub minimizes cognitive strain and individual workload by managing workloads. This expands your mental bandwidth, allowing you to remember everything with less effort.

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