Memory by Association is one technique that can be used to improve memory retention. It is simply linking new information to existing knowledge or memories.
Our brains have a natural ability to associate new information with existing knowledge to help us understand and remember better, and by intentionally linking new information to familiar concepts or memories, we can strengthen these connections and make it easier to recall the new information later.
There are a number of ways to practice memory by association. Here are a few:
Visualization: Creating mental images that connect new information to familiar concepts can help to improve memory retention. For example, if you are trying to remember the name “Rose,” you might visualize a rose flower in your mind. You may also associate someone’s name with a particular feature of the person’s appearance or a unique aspect of their personality. The next time you see them, that feature, or aspect can trigger your memory of their name.
Rhymes: Rhyming phrases or songs can be used to help remember lists or sequences of information. For example, the mnemonic phrase “Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally” can help children remember the order of operations (Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication, Division, Addition, and Subtraction – PEMDAS). Likewise, the rhyme “i before e, except after c” can help to remember the spelling of certain words.
Chunking: Breaking down information or a component into smaller more manageable and related “chunks” can make it easier to remember. This can be done through grouping, for example, remembering a phone number by breaking it down into three groups of numbers, or through patterns and organizing.
Acronyms: Acronyms are also a type of memory by association that use the first letter of each word in a phrase to create a new word that is easier to remember.
Memory by association can be a powerful tool for improving memory retention, but it does require some effort and practice. The key is to find associations that work for you and that make the new information more meaningful and easier to remember.
– Brain Ability Place