Try these proven techniques to remember what you learn
Ever feel like information just slides right out of your brain? You might shrug this off as forgetfulness and accept it as your fate. Maybe you say things like “I’ve got a terrible memory!” and leave it at that.
But did you know it might not be a memory challenge, but a processing challenge? How you learn information can directly affect how you remember it. You might just need to shake up your learning routine to make information stick.
Here are some proven techniques to remember what you learn.
Research shows that learning through multiple senses can help you retain information better. So, rather than just watching a tutorial, try attending a live workshop where there’s a chance to ask questions and practice the task yourself. Or, absorb new information in different ways — listen to a podcast, read a book, interview an expert, and take a quiz. Approach it from all angles.
When you’re wanting to commit something to memory, it can be tempting to power through without breaks. But it’s actually helpful to take a step back and give your brain a chance to quietly process the information — for example, while you’re sleeping. Come back to it with fresh eyes at regular intervals over the course of a day or week, and it’s likely to stick around in your memory for longer.
Think you know a concept? Trying teaching others to see how much of it rolls off your tongue! This is a fast way to identify knowledge gaps. Plus, the experience of teaching will likely help you remember what you do already know, and be able to recall it faster next time.
These are just some of the ways you can improve your memory. The key takeaway is to experiment with different techniques until you find what works for your unique brain. Just because someone teaches something a certain way doesn’t mean that’s how you have to learn. You have the power to try new approaches and honour what works for you.