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Memorizing requires us to:

1. Get information into our brains, and…..
2. Get the information out of our brains when we need to access it

It’s step #2 that presents a challenge for many students. A brilliant memory depends on the vitality and health of your brain. In order to preserve and enhance your grey matter, whether studying for quizzes or final exams, here are some tips to improve your memory and mental performance.

• Getting Started: Study at times when your mind is alert. The best time to memorize is early morning because your brain is fresh and well rested after 7-8 hours of sleep. Usually there are fewer distractions during this time; silence does help with memorization.

• Use Mnemonic Aids to Memorize: The most common technique is the Take the first letter of a group of words you need to memorize and create a catchy new word.

   Examples of acronyms commonly used by Health Care Assistants:

ADL’s = Activities of Daily Living

BATTED = Bathing, Ambulation, Toileting, Transfers, Eating and Dressing

•  Learning Style: Each of us has a preferred learning style that aids us in understanding and retaining information.

However, research shows that learners retain…

90% of what they learn when they teach someone else/use immediately.
75% of what they learn when they practice what they learned.
50% of what they learn when engaged in a group discussion.
30% of what they learn when they see a demonstration.
20% of what they learn from audio-visual.
10% of what they learn when they’ve learned from reading.
5% of what they learn when they’ve learned from lecture.

•  Brain-Boosting Diet: Just as a car needs gas, your brain needs fuel to perform at it’s best. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables packed with antioxidants. Salmon, halibut and mackerel are a rich source of omega-3, which is beneficial in promoting brain health.  There is also evidence to show that cocoa contains stimulant substances that may also improve cognitive function.

•  Time to Break a Sweat: Physical exercise increases oxygen to your brain, and helps the brain stay sharp. Aerobic exercise is particularly good for the brain, so choose activities which increase blood flow to enhance the effects of helpful brain chemicals and reduce stress hormones. Even a few jumping jacks or a short walk will help to reboot your brain.

Marilee Sinlao, a Health Care Assistant Program instructor at Drake Medox College  says “improving memorization skills requires a deliberate effort, the right environment, and lots of practice to succeed.”

Thanks to Marilee for sharing her great tips through this blog!!