Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A mnemonic device is any learning technique used to aid information retention or retrieval for recall in human memory. They're often verbal tools such as acronyms or memorable phrases.
Related terms
Acronym: An acronym is one type of mnemonic device where each letter stands for another word - like NASA standing for National Aeronautics and Space Administration.
Rhyme-Keys Method: This method involves creating rhymes to help remember information - think "In 1492, Columbus sailed the ocean blue."
Method of Loci: This is a mnemonic device that involves associating information with specific physical locations. It's like leaving yourself mental breadcrumbs!