Human brains have the capability to interpret and code various complex stimuli like colors, shapes, smells, images, structures, tastes, languages, emotions etc. The brain helps not only in distinguishing between various things but also in remembering them. Memory therefore, forms an important part of the brain. However, as there are so many things to memorize, it is natural to forget many of them. Nonetheless, the saying "use it or lose it" applies to the brain as well. This means that if you exercise your brain, your memory will be better and you will be able to remember things well. There are various memory techniques for those who wish to improve their memorizing capability. These techniques are explained below.Mnemonics: this technique is used to encode difficult information in a simpler form making it easier to remember. Under this technique, the information to be remembered is broken down and encoded as simple-to-remember information. While it may be difficult to recall things otherwise, using mnemonics helps to remember and recall information. Students often use mnemonics to remember history dates and other information. They relate the date with something that is familiar and makes them remember the dates or events easily. Association, imagination and location are the fundamental principles to be applied when designing mnemonics.
Exercise the brain: just as the body needs exercise to be fit and healthy, so does the brain need exercise to remain sharp and focused. Taking up exercises for the brain is an excellent method to keep it working. Solving crossword puzzles, number puzzles and other brain-teasing exercises makes the brain, work and help memorize things in a better way and for a long time. When the focus of the brain improves, the memorizing capability increases.
Take a good sleep: sleep is an important aspect of memory. A brain that does not get complete rest is unable to concentrate or remain focused. This leads to the information not being grasped fully resulting in it being forgotten very soon. Therefore, it is essential that a person sleep soundly to provide rest to the brain. A focused mind is able to retain things for a long time.
Use the mind entirely to remember: when designing mnemonics or trying to remember things, it is essential to use the entire mind. This means that you should encode difficult information by using images, colors, symbols, vividness with movement and even humor. Using these aspects involves the entire mind and helps you memorize things better
