4 Principles of Improving Memory
Actively Process Material
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- Do not passively read the text.
- Actively learn the material by thinking about the meaning, relationships, and organization.
- Use different strategies: recite the material aloud, write bulleted summaries, draw graphs, etc.
- Approach the material as learning so that you can teach it.
Practice Retrieval
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- Learning by recalling and retrieving from memory is more effective than rereading.
- Use self-questioning and self-testing. Use practice questions when available.
Use Distributed Practice
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- Learning blocks across a long period are more effective than learning massed all at once.
- Distribute small study sessions across each week rather than procrastinating and “cramming” in one day.
Use Metamemory
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- Metamemory is the judgments and decisions we make about our own learning and memory.
- Ask yourself these questions: What length of study period works best for me? How do I study best? When and where do I study best? What areas of study are easiest or most difficult for me? Which study strategies have helped me to be successful?
- Use the answers to these questions to develop a study plan. Evaluate this plan and make any needed changes.
Schwartz et al. Four principles of memory improvement: A guide to improving learning efficiency. International Journal of Creativity and Problem Solving. 2011. 21(1): 7-15.
