1) Method of Loci (Memory Palace)
Hey there! Let me introduce you to one of my favorite techniques for remembering things: the Method of Loci, also known as the Memory Palace technique. It might sound fancy, but trust me, it’s super useful and easy to apply.
So, picture this: You’re walking through your house or a place you’re really familiar with—like your childhood home or your school. Now, imagine that each room, or even a specific object in that room, represents a piece of information you want to remember. This method works so well because our brains are great at remembering places, even more than abstract facts.
How do I use it?
Let’s say I need to memorize a bunch of formulas for A-Level Chemistry. I could start by imagining walking through the front door of my house, and each step I take in the house corresponds to a formula or concept.
Start at the door: The front door could represent the basic equation for moles (m = n x M). As I open the door, I think about how important moles are in chemistry—like the ‘key’ to understanding everything in the subject.
Walk to the kitchen: In the kitchen, imagine the ideal gas equation: PV = nRT, with the oven representing the “P” (pressure) and the fridge as the “V” (volume), since they keep things under pressure. You might even imagine the fridge “blowing” air to help you remember the ideal gas laws.
Move to the living room: In the living room, I place oxidation and reduction reactions. I imagine one side of the couch “gaining” electrons (reduction) and the other side “losing” electrons (oxidation).
This method works because each piece of information is tied to something visual and familiar, so it’s easier to recall. When I need to remember a formula, I mentally walk through my house, and each room triggers the information I’ve linked to it.
2) Spaced Repetition
Now, onto another method that’s been a game-changer for me: Spaced Repetition. This is all about reviewing material at increasing intervals over time to help it stick in your long-term memory. Instead of cramming everything into one night before the exam, this technique helps you retain the information much more effectively.
How do I use it?
When I’m studying A-Level Biology, for example, let’s say I’m learning about the circulatory system. Instead of reading the notes once and hoping for the best, I break the material into smaller chunks and review them over several days or weeks.
First review: On Day 1, I learn about the heart, blood flow, and the difference between arteries and veins. I’ll go over this content thoroughly—writing notes, making diagrams, etc.
Second review: On Day 3, I go back and test myself on what I remember about the circulatory system. I’ll look at my notes quickly, then quiz myself, covering the same information.
Third review: On Day 7, I do it again, but this time I challenge myself to recall even more detail, like the specific pressure differences between arteries and veins, or the stages of the cardiac cycle.
The key is that I’m reviewing the material at spaced intervals—not just when I feel like it, but at strategic times to reinforce the memory. The longer you wait between reviews, the stronger the memory becomes.
REVISE NOT TOO SOON THAT IT’S A WASTE OF TIME & NOT TOO LATE THAT YOU’VE FORGOTTEN IT!
3) Active Recall
This one is probably the most crucial method I use—Active Recall. It’s essentially about testing yourself instead of just passively reading or highlighting your notes. The idea is that when you try to retrieve information from memory, you’re strengthening the neural pathways that help you remember it later.
How do I use it?
Let’s say I’m studying A-Level Physics, and I need to remember the laws of motion. Rather than just reading the textbook, I actively test myself.
Create flashcards: For each law of motion, I write a question on one side of the card, like “What is Newton’s First Law?” and the answer on the back. Instead of reading the answer right away, I try to recall it from memory.
Self-quizzing: After reviewing a chapter on forces or motion, I close the book and write down everything I remember. This could include things like the definition of velocity, the difference between speed and acceleration, or examples of real-life applications.
Practice papers: I take past papers for A-Level Maths, and instead of just looking at the answers, I try to work through each question. I don’t let myself peek at the solutions until I’ve given the question my best shot.
What’s amazing about Active Recall is that it’s way more efficient than passive studying. Each time I retrieve the information, I’m improving my memory, even if I get some things wrong! And getting things wrong isn’t a failure—it just tells me what I need to review more.
Putting It All Together
Here’s how I might use all three of these methods together while studying for A-Level Chemistry:
- I’ll use the Method of Loci to visualize where key concepts like bonding or reactions live in my memory palace.
- I’ll apply Spaced Repetition to review these concepts multiple times over weeks, making sure they stay fresh in my mind.
- And, I’ll use Active Recall to test myself frequently—whether it’s through flashcards, self-quizzing, or past papers—so I’m always pulling the information out of my memory.
By combining these methods, I’m not just studying to pass an exam—I’m studying to truly understand and remember the material. Trust me, when you start using these techniques, you’ll find that studying becomes more effective, more engaging, and even a bit fun!