Improve your Memory

How does memory work?

4 stages of Memory Process

• Encoding
• Storage
• Retrieval
• Forgetting

Encoding and Storing Information

Encoding

• This is the process of taking in information through your senses (sight, sound, smell)
• Our brain transforms this input into a format it can store
• Attention and emotional significance help with encoding
• The more likely to remember something that matters

Types of Encoding

• Visual
• Acoustic
• Semantic

The Hippocampus

• The hippocampus is a central structure in the brain which supports memory
• It takes elements of an experience (sights, sounds, emotions) and binds them together into a memory
• It plays a key role in consolidating short term memories into long term memories

Storage

• Once encoded the information is stored in your brain
• Short term memory or working memory holds small amounts of information briefly (e.g. a phone number)
• Long term memory stores information more permanently, which can last a lifetime

How the brain stores information

• Step 1: Take in sensory input
• Step 2: Short term storage where information is rehearsed
• Step 3: Long term storage when connections are strengthened

Techniques for Memory Recall

Memory Blockers

• Stress
• Anxiety
• Fatigue
• Distractions
• Multitasking

Techniques for memory recall

• Active recall
  • Actively trying to remember information
  • Testing yourself rather than re-reading
  • Spaced repetition
    • Revisiting information at increasing intervals
    • Helps move information into long term memory
    • Elaborative encoding
      • Linking new information to what you already know
      • Asking “why” and “how” questions
      • Dual coding
        • Combining words and visuals
        • Using diagrams, images or symbols

Learning by Association

• Linking or associating new information to something you already know
• Our brain works by making links to make learning easier and memory stronger
• A useful technique is Mind-mapping