What is short-term memory, to begin with? Both short-term and long-term memory are forms of memory in our brain. Short-term memory is where new knowledge is initially kept when it enters the mind. Here, the information is only available for a brief period of time, which can be anything from a few seconds and around a minute. According to several conditions, it then progresses to long-term memory from this point. Many elements can cause knowledge to go from short-term to long-term memory, including:
Actively trying to recall or learn something
Long-term repetition of the information, either audibly or in your head
The likelihood of information moving into long-term memory increases when the brain deems it important.
Just a certain amount of information can fit in short-term memory. It implies that some older information is replaced when new information enters. If the information is not stored in long-term memory, it is forgotten. Consequently, if you develop your short-term memory, you’ll be more likely to remember more of the experiences you have during the day.
1. Categorize Information
To make information easier to recall, try using the chunking technique by separating it into groups of related information. Let’s use remembering a nine-digit phone number as an example. It gets challenging and you run the risk of confusing the numbers if you try to recall the entire amount at once. Nevertheless, if you split the number into three groups, it will be simpler to recall.
Let’s imagine you wish to keep in mind a list of groceries you need to buy. Sort these objects into groups, such as tools, canned or packaged foods, fruits, and so forth. By memorizing the things in each category, you will enhance your short-term memory in this manner. Chunking has additionally demonstrated advantages at work. According to research, chunking consolidates various pieces of knowledge for easier retrieval from long-term memory, enhancing short-term memory.
2. Repeat the Information
Any information is more likely to be stored in long-term memory after being repeated aloud or mentally several times. As information is quickly transferred to long-term memory, a void in short-term memory is left open for the entry of new information. Making the habit of transferring significant knowledge to long-term memory will help you avoid overloading your short-term memory.
3. Practice Memory Exercises
Many people have achieved exceptional memories via consistent practice and training. Memory pros show off their abilities by pulling off tricks like recalling a list of extremely long items in the same sequence after hearing them just once. Even if you don’t consider yourself to be a memory ace, doing memory exercises might help you sharpen your short-term memory. To recall lists, numbers, shapes, structures, and other information, there are numerous easy activities available.
You can teach your brain to stay concentrated and avoid distractions by playing mentally challenging games like chess, rubric cubes, puzzles, and even math exercises.
4. Maintain a Healthy Sleep Routine
Technically speaking, it would be wrong to state that while we sleep, our minds are at rest. Even then, the brain is engaged in a variety of functions, such as breathing. Yet, our brain only stops actively absorbing and processing information while we are asleep. Research have revealed that getting enough sleep enhances a number of cognitive processes. Our memory is the same way. An exhausted brain performs poorly in information processing and storage. This is why having a regular sleep and nighttime routine is essential if you want to learn how to boost your short-term memory.
5. Meditate
A study found that using various meditation approaches together enhances short-term memory and attention. Learning to manage one’s thoughts and becoming aware of one’s surroundings are crucial components of meditation. Also, it will assist in clearing the mind of unproductive or bad ideas. The crucial knowledge is simple to store once all the unimportant stuff has been removed from your brain. A common representation of meditation is a straight-backed chair with folded legs and extended arms. Yet meditation is more than just good posture; it’s a skill that can be used anytime, anywhere.
6. Practice Memory Association
Even memory specialists frequently use memory associations. With this method, you can enhance short-term memory by connecting many pieces of knowledge such that remembering one will also bring up memories of others. For instance, by associating a new acquaintance’s name with another person you know who has the same (or a similar) name, you can recall it. You can mentally link someone’s address to a well-known landmark to help you remember it. Memory association is the process of connecting new knowledge with familiar facts.
7. Read, Write, Speak, and Listen
Reading, writing, speaking, and listening are all effective ways to keep the brain busy and enhance short-term memory. Our brain begins processing these activities more quickly the more we engage in them. In other words, you become better at comprehending and remembering knowledge when you actively engage in reading, writing, or speaking with others. So, what can you actually do? Make time to read more, journal, and work on your speaking abilities.
8. Use the Power of Melody
It’s almost baffling how much simpler it is to recall song lyrics than to read a tuneless text. Also, this is not just something we are imagining. Research have shown that melody can strengthen connections in the brain, even in elderly persons.
Although it may seem like a lot of extra work, you can enhance your short-term memory by tying your speech to music you already know and appreciate. A well-known tune in your head can help you feel more at ease when speaking in front of an audience.
9. Don’t Cram
It has been demonstrated that distributed practice, or studying in short bursts over a longer period of time, is more effective than massed practice or cramming. This explains why we have a mental block after staying up late to prepare for an exam or presentation. Given your busy schedule, it could be tempting to cram, but scheduling regular study or memorization times will help you develop your short-term memory. Your brain will have a greater probability of storing the knowledge in long-term memory in this manner.
10. Exercise More
You’re in luck if you’re seeking for a more practical method to enhance your short-term memory. Studies show a direct link between consistent exercise and enhanced cognitive functions. The best news is that this holds true for both short-term and long-term activity, so it’s never too late to start!
