Mnemonics (pronounced “ne-MON-iks”) are different methods or tricks to help you remember information. Mnemonics tend to fall into four basic categories:
Mnemonics are a sort of mental filing system that provide a way of organizing material. They probably aren’t needed if what you are studying is logical and organized, but they can be really useful when material doesn’t have a pattern of its own. Although using mnemonics can be helpful in remembering information, it takes time to think up rhymes, associations, or visual images that have limited use when you need to analyze or explain the material in depth.
Make Good Choices
Choose Review Methods That Work for You
This chapter has offered several strategies for reviewing material before you take a test or exam, including review sheets, mind maps, flash cards, summaries, and mnemonics. Some of these strategies might work better for certain subject areas. For instance, mnemonics and flash cards will help when you have to remember definitions or other specific bits of information. Review sheets, mind maps, and summaries work more effectively when you need to understand broad concepts. When you begin studying for your next test, let the type of test and the material it will cover help you choose the best study method.