How to Memorize the Cranial Nerves

There are 12 cranial nerves in the human body. Most Human Anatomy courses require that you memorize the numbers, names, and fiber types of the nerves. While the task seems rather intimidating, it's actually very easy.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• An anatomical model or drawing of the brain
• OR a brain prepared for dissection

1. First, identify all twelve cranial nerves on the brain, model brain, or drawing of the brain. Simply label them I through XII. Don't try memorizing the names yet. Just assign the numbers to the nerves on the brain. Once you've memorized their position, continue to step 2.

2. Assign a name to each nerve. The easiest way to do this is with a mnemonic. Take the first letter of each nerve and substitute another word. Most people find that the more risque mnemonics are easier to remember. For instance: "Oh Oh Oh To Touch And Feel A Girl's Vagina And Hymen". (Optic, Olfactory, Oculomotor, Trochlear, Trigeminal, Abducens, Facial, Acoustic, Glossopharyngeal, Vagus, Accessory, Hypoglossal.) (Note that Cranial Nerve VIII can be called Auditory, Acoustic, or Vestibulocochlear, Cranial Nerve XI can be accessory or spinal accessory.)

3. Now, assign the fiber type, using another mnemonic. The same rule applies. "Some Say Marry Money But My Brother Says Big Boobs Matter Most." (Sensory, Sensory, Motor, Motor, Both, Motor, Both, Sensory, Both, Both, Motor, Motor).

Tips & Warnings

• There are lots of mnemonics for cranial nerves. Find one that's easy to remember for you.