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Mnemonic Devices

Definition

Mnemonic devices are techniques a person can use to help them improve their ability to remember something.

Analogy

Think of mnemonic devices as mental sticky notes. Just like how you might stick a note on your fridge to remind yourself to buy milk, mnemonic devices are little reminders that help jog your memory about more complex information.

Related terms

Acrostics: A type of mnemonic device where the first letter of each word in a sentence stands for something else. Like writing "B.B.M" on your sticky note as a reminder to "Buy Bread & Milk".

Method of Loci: A strategy of memory enhancement which uses visualizations with the use of spatial memory, familiar information about one's environment, to quickly and efficiently recall information. It’s like sticking those mental sticky notes in specific places around your house so you remember them better.

Peg-word System: A mnemonic technique in which you memorize an easy-to-remember 'peg' word or phrase associated with each item on your list. It’s like adding little drawings next to each point on your sticky note list.