Promise Adeleke

Fourteen tips to help you learn things more quicker than others

The pursuit of an enhanced memory is a universal desire, fueled by the fantasy of a pill akin to the one featured in the movie Limitless, granting the ability to recall experiences and knowledge effortlessly. Unfortunately, our brains, much like a hard drive with limited space, are selective in what information they retain. The renowned detective Sherlock Holmes exemplifies this phenomenon, deliberately discarding irrelevant details to prevent overload.Understanding the mechanisms of memory is crucial in devising strategies to improve retention. Hermann Ebbinghaus, a German psychologist, introduced the forgetting curve, illustrating that within one hour of learning something new, over half of the information is forgotten. After a day, only around 30% remains. To counteract this, a memorization technique called spaced repetition proves effective. By repeating information at strategic intervals – first after learning, then 15 to 20 minutes later, followed by 6 to 8 hours, and finally after 24 hours – the brain is encouraged to move data into long-term memory.For those seeking quick memorization, such as during exam preparation, immediate repetition after learning is essential, with subsequent repetitions spaced strategically. A key aspect is allowing the brain to rest between repetitions, preventing overload. For long-term memorization, a more extended plan is recommended, including repetitions after 20-30 minutes, one day, two to three weeks, and finally, two to three months. This approach capitalizes on the brain's inclination to retain information deemed necessary.In addition to these strategies, eleven simple tips can further enhance the memorization process: