How to Memorize

Memorizing information is useful for remembering a list of groceries to buy, errands to run or things to do. It can also be used in entertainment should you need to memorize a script or a piece of music, or at a banquet should you need to make a speech. It isn't too difficult to memorize something if you know some tips for accomplishing it.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Gather the information you need to memorize in a list format. If the material you want to memorize isn't in list form, rewrite it as a list. In the case of a piece of music, of course, making it into a list isn't possible, but the rest of the steps can be altered to fit in the case of music.

2. Decide how many items (or measure of a piece of music) you can memorize in the first few seconds. Study these items briefly, then try to recite them (or play them) from memory.

3. Add additional items (or measures of music) one or two at a time and recite (play) the list again from the first item. Continue until you have memorized the entire list or thing you are memorizing.

4. Rehearse your memorized list or piece until you can recite it (or play it) all without pausing to think about what comes next.

Tips & Warnings

• Try using a mnemonic device to help you memorize, such as finding a rhyme or rhythm. If you can rearrange the list to make memorizing easier, do so. Don't be afraid to recite the list as a song or rap.
• Rehearsal is the key to memorization. Rehearse your memorized material frequently, and leave time before your test or performance for a last-minute rehearsal.
• Rehearse in short sessions, then take a break to exercise, do some housework, eat or sleep. Rehearse again just before going to bed.

Resources

• Learn more mnemonic devices at Back 2 College.

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