Memory and recall

We often talk about our memory as though it is one single function, but memory has many elements and processes, and memory difficulties can have many causes.

Which of the following situations apply to you? Click on links below to reveal specific advice.

    • Difficulty following conversation is not a true memory problem, but one of taking in information in the first place. Accept that this happens to you and take steps to minimise the problems it causes.
    • Decide to opt in or out of the conversation. If you want it to continue, then take an active role. If it is too difficult, tell them politely you are a little distracted and would rather talk later.
    • Be active in the conversation: ask your speaking partner to repeat information occasionally, for example, “I didn’t quite get that. Can you tell me again?”
    • Listen for the main topic of the conversation, and the speaker’s reaction to the topic. For example, were they talking about a lecture? An outing? Was it frustrating, enjoyable, surprising or something else? This is easier than concentrating on every word.
    • Feed back to the speaker what you have learned about their reaction: “That sounds excellent / What a pain! / Good for you!”
    • Say you need to make a note if the conversation includes decisions about actions you must take, such as when a tutor or lecturer asks you to read an article, or a friend suggests an outing. Everyone knows people are busy and can easily forget some events.

    • Prepare by reading course outlines, lecture slides and any other related information before the event. That way you will be familiar with the content and find it easier to take in information during the class.
    • Organise your lecture and study notes – use colour coding, headings, specific icons or symbols for different actions, such as “ Reading” or “Test”.

    • Find a quick and simple way to record events when you are told about them, such as a voice recorder, take a photo or add a reminder to your calendar.
    • Develop a routine of copying out your recordings into your calendar or diary every day. It will only take a few minutes.

    • To consolidate memory, it is vital to begin revising early in the semester, and to revise each part of your notes several times. This is a more effective way of learning than cramming.
    • When revising, plan short sessions and repeat them at regular time intervals.
    • Aim to recall more each time you revise, rather than trying to recall everything in one short session.
    • Test yourself while revising: try to repeat information aloud or write it down with your notes closed, then check back. Create your own revision schedule to help.
    • Silent re-reading is unlikely to be effective. You need to choose more active revision methods, like those in the active learning guide.