Source:Study Smarter, Not Harder: 10 Expert Tips for Effective Information Retention
Introduction:
As we all know, repetition is a key component of learning. Reviewing and reinforcing previously learnt material can help solidify knowledge and improve long-term retention. However, finding effective ways to review can be a challenge. Whether you’re a parent looking to help your child study or a student trying to learn a new subject, this article will provide you with five tips for reviewing and reinforcing previously learnt material.
Practise Retrieval
Research has shown that practising retrieval is an effective way to improve memory retention. This involves actively recalling information instead of simply re-reading it. One way to practise retrieval is to create flash cards with questions on one side and answers on the other. Another method is to quiz yourself with practice tests. By actively recalling information, you’re reinforcing pathways in your brain and making it easier to remember the material in the long-term.
Spaced Repetition
Spaced repetition involves reviewing material at regular intervals. Instead of cramming all your studying into one session, space it out over a longer period of time. For example, if you’re studying for a test, review the material once a day for a week leading up to the exam. Then review it every other day the following week and so on. This method has been shown to improve memory retention and reduce the amount of time needed to study.
Connect New Information to Old Information
When learning new material, try to connect it to something you already know. By creating links between new information and old information, you’re more likely to remember it. For example, if you’re learning about the structure of atoms, you could connect it to the solar system, with the nucleus being the sun and the electrons being the planets. By creating these connections, you’re creating a framework for the new information to fit into, making it easier to remember.
Teach Someone Else
One of the best ways to reinforce previously learnt material is to teach it to someone else. By explaining a concept to someone else, you’re reinforcing it in your own mind. You’re also more likely to remember the information because you’re actively engaging with it. Additionally, teaching someone else can help identify any gaps in your own understanding, giving you the opportunity to fill in those gaps and improve your own knowledge.
Use Multiple Modalities
Different people have different learning styles. Some people are visual learners, while others learn better through auditory or kinaesthetic methods. To maximise your learning and review, try incorporating multiple modalities. For example, if you’re studying for a history test, read the textbook, listen to a podcast and create a timeline of events. By using multiple modalities, you’re activating different parts of your brain, which can improve memory retention.
Conclusion:
By using these five tips, you can improve your review and reinforcement of previously learnt material. Whether you’re studying for a test or trying to learn a new subject, incorporating retrieval, spaced repetition, connection, teaching and multiple modalities can help you remember information over the long-term. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you. With enough practice and repetition, you’ll be able to master any subject.
