Summary

• This literature review examines five effective memory techniques and strategies: mnemonic devices, spaced repetition, elaborative rehearsal, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and sleep-based memory consolidation.
• Each technique is supported by relevant academic sources and research studies.
• By using these techniques and strategies, individuals can improve their memory and learning outcomes.

5 of the Best Memory Techniques Used for Exam Preparation

Mnemonic Devices

Mnemonic devices are techniques used to aid in memory recall by creating associations between new information and pre-existing knowledge. These devices can take the form of acronyms, rhymes, or visual imagery. One of the most widely used mnemonic devices is the Method of Loci, which involves associating new information with familiar locations. For example, to remember a grocery list, one could associate each item with a different location in their home.

Research has found mnemonic devices to be effective in enhancing memory performance. A meta-analysis by Dunlosky et al. (2013) found that mnemonic techniques such as the Method of Loci were effective in improving recall performance across a variety of tasks.

Spaced Repetition

Spaced repetition involves revising information at increasing intervals of time, allowing for more effective consolidation of memory. This technique is based on the spacing effect, which suggests that information is more easily retained when it is presented at spaced intervals rather than in a single session. Applications such as Anki and Memrise are popularly used for spaced repetition-based learning.

Research has found spaced repetition to be effective in enhancing memory performance. A study by Kang et al. (2016) found that participants who used a spaced repetition-based learning technique performed better in recalling information than those who used a massed repetition technique.

Elaborative Rehearsal

Elaborative rehearsal involves actively engaging with new information by making connections to pre-existing knowledge. This technique involves deeper processing of information, allowing for better encoding and retrieval. An example of elaborative rehearsal could be creating a story using new vocabulary words to better understand their meaning.

Research has found elaborative rehearsal to be effective in enhancing memory performance. A study by Craik and Tulving (1975) found that elaborative rehearsal led to better memory retention compared to shallow processing techniques such as rote memorization.

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction

Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) involves the practice of mindfulness meditation to reduce stress and anxiety, which can impair memory performance. MBSR can involve techniques such as body scanning and breath awareness. Studies have found that MBSR can enhance memory performance by reducing stress levels.

Research has found MBSR to be effective in enhancing memory performance. A study by Basso et al. (2019) found that participants who completed an MBSR program showed improvements in memory performance compared to a control group.

Sleep-Based Memory Consolidation

Sleep-based memory consolidation involves the process by which memories are transferred from short-term memory to long-term memory during sleep. This process involves the replaying of memories during sleep, allowing for better consolidation of information. Research has found that sleep plays a crucial role in memory consolidation, and that sleep-based memory consolidation can enhance memory performance.

A study by Rasch and Born (2013) found that participants who were allowed to sleep after learning new information showed better memory retention compared to those who did not sleep.

Conclusion

This literature review examines the most effective memory techniques and strategies, including mnemonic devices, spaced repetition, elaborative rehearsal, mindfulness-based stress reduction, and sleep-based memory consolidation. Relevant studies from academic sources are cited for each technique.