How to improve memory: Keys to remember what you’ve studied

Everyone who has ever taken an exam has experienced the sinking sensation of being entirely blanked by a question they don’t know the answer to.

Having trouble recalling study material is a challenge that people all over the globe encounter. However, trying to remember material by reading and rereading textbooks isn’t the only solution.

Image above: Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

In this article, we will share some tips on improving your memory to ace that upcoming test.

Why is it hard to remember what you’ve studied?

Many pupils have trouble recalling information and content because they don’t spend enough time working their minds. In addition, as the themes become more complicated, individuals discover that their minds are unprepared to deal with the material.

Students should learn how to use their memory more efficiently when studying rather than asking how to memorise quickly for tests.

The more you study content regularly, the more you can train your mind to recall what you’ve learned with greater precision.

There are certain memory tactics to boost your memory for your next test, in addition to studying class content on a regular basis.

Photo by cottonbro from Pexels

How to improve memory and concentration while studying?

Here are some tips that will help you remember all that info for your exam:

Organise your space

If your study area is crowded and your notes are disorganised, you’re more prone to forget things. Make a specific notepad, calendar, or electronic planner to keep track of tasks, appointments, and other activities.

You may even read each entry aloud as you scribble it down to help you remember it. Keep your to-do lists up to date and mark off tasks as they are finished. 

By doing so, you will also learn how to manage your time well, which will be highly beneficial when studying for a test.

Limit your distractions, and don’t try to do too much at once. If you concentrate on the knowledge you want to remember, you’ll be more likely to remember it afterwards. 

Visualise concepts

Many people find that picturing the knowledge they are studying is beneficial. In fact, it is one of the ways you can learn effectively to ace an exam.

In your textbooks, pay close attention to the images, charts, and other illustrations. If you don’t have any visual aids, consider making your own. 

Draw charts or figures in the margins of your notes, or use highlighters or pens in different colours to group similar topics in your written study materials.

Change your study location

Different clues in your environment might activate your memories. If you’re having difficulties recalling what you’re learning, consider studying at a different location to help the knowledge stick in your head.

For example, you might find that you remember the material much better when you’re hitting the books at the library compared to your home.

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Sleep well

Insufficient sleep has been linked to poor memory.

Memory consolidation, the process by which short-term memories are reinforced and changed into long-term memories, is aided by sleep.

Sleep deprivation has been shown to have a harmful influence on memory, according to research. So, make sure you get adequate sleep if you want to do well in your exams. 

Avoid cramming

According to research, study periodically retain the content significantly better than those who spend all of their studying in one marathon session. Therefore, plan ahead so that you have the time you need to go through all your subjects properly. Last-minute cramming isn’t the best strategy. 

What exercises improve memory?

Here are some small exercises you can do to boost your memory:

• Make mental calculations: Without using a pencil, paper, or computer, solve mathematical problems. By walking simultaneously, you may make this more challenging and sporty.

• Play memory card games: Memory card games put a person’s short-term memory and pattern-recognition skills to the test. They’re an easy and enjoyable technique to train the brain and stimulate pattern recognition and recall regions.

• Learn something new: Brain training needs some dedication, but you’ll see benefits. Learning something new is one method to keep your brain active and offer it new challenges on a regular basis.

Food to improve memory 

Here’s a list of food that you can take to improve your memory:

• Oily fish: Oily fish is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids aid in forming membranes that surround all cells in the body, including brain cells. As a result, they can enhance the structure of brain cells known as neurons.

• Dark chocolate: Cocoa, often known as cacao, is found in dark chocolate. Flavonoids, a kind of antioxidant, are found in cacao. Because the brain is highly vulnerable to oxidative stress, which leads to age-related cognitive decline and brain illnesses, antioxidants are especially crucial for brain health.

• Berries: Berries, particularly dark berries like blackberries and blueberries, as well as cherries, are high in anthocyanins and other flavonoids, which may help with memory.

• Sunflower seeds: Vitamin E can be found in abundance in sunflower seeds.  Getting enough vitamin E prevents cognitive deterioration. Sprinkle sunflower seeds into your meals to aid memory.

• Almonds: Almonds can help increase ACh acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter in the brain that aids memory.

Whole grains: Healthy whole grains, such as brown rice, whole grain bread, oats, and even popcorn, include fibres and vitamins that promote memory function by improving blood flow throughout the brain. They also help maintain blood sugar stability, which can help reduce study-disrupting cravings.

Photo by Nicola Barts from Pexels

Conclusion 

Just follow these few simple steps, and you can see how well you remember what you’ve studied. Remember that everyone works at their own pace, so take your time to figure out which method is the best for you.

This content is provided by UOW Malaysia KDU.

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