For example the nine-digit code 336964356, could be committed to memory with the sentence: ‘Why (3) are (3) Indian (6) elephants (9) always (6) grey (4) and (3) never (5) purple (6)?’ You’ll find such nonsense sentences and phrases far easier to memorise than a lengthy number – try it and see for yourself.
Use Mnemonic Short-Cuts to Speed Retention and Recall
Many facts are more easily remembered by use of a mnemonic. This is a phrase, sentence or rhyme that lodges easily in the memory and provides the facts you need. For example the mnemonic ‘Most Volcanoes Erupt Mulberry Jam Sandwiches Under Normal Pressure’ has enabled generations of children to remember the nine planets outward from the sun: Mercury; Venus; Earth; Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto. Although, of course, this no longer works quite as well since astronomers have recently decided Pluto is no longer a planet! The more bizarre and unique you can make a mnemonic the easier it is to remember!
Only Remember What You Need to Remember
Einstein once remarked that it is more important to remember where you can find the facts and figures you need than to try and remember the information itself. It is good advice from one of the world’s greatest and most innovative thinkers. Never bother to memorise anything unless you have an excellent reason to do so. As the Chinese say: ‘ The palest ink is better than the best memories’. So write it down or note it on your computer. But, for security reasons, never carry pass codes and PINS in your wallet or handbag.
Talk Your Memory Up not Down
Always remain positive about your memory, both in what you tell yourself and say to others. Do not punish yourself for occasional memory slips and lapses that everyone makes, or see them as signs of impending mental decline.
Never tell yourself, or someone else, that you’ve got a ‘terrible memory’ or find it impossible to recall specific facts, such as names or faces. Such negative statements can quickly create a self-fulfilling prophecy of failure. Build a better memory through regular practice, using memory techniques like those provided in the Memory Memos and on our Mastering Your Memory DVD. Try and take the time to learn a short piece of prose or poetry every day – look on this as the mental equivalent of taking exercise. Never forget that memory is like muscle – the more you use it the stronger it becomes.
Use Red Ink in Mental Imagery
When you need to remember something but can’t write it down immediately, for example when given someone’s name or telephone number, try this powerful visualisation technique. Close your eyes and imagine a sheet of perfectly white paper on which you write it down in bold red numbers or letters – the redder the better!
To recall that information again imply shut your eyes again and see the ‘note’ in your mind’s eye. With only a little practice the information will spring back into your mind as well. Why red? No one seems to know for certain but research suggests that it is the most easily recalled of all the colours when used in this way.