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You know that feeling when a word or phrase is at the tip
of your tongue? Isn't it frustrating enough even in your mother tongue?
Learning a language ultimately requires a massive
volume of material to be committed to memory.
Doesn't it make sense to apply the best memory techniques to make this process as effortless
as possible? On this page we list some of the best practical "memory shortcuts" to help you achieve this.
Memory Shortcut 1: Use Vocab. "Memory Keys".
This method can potentially double your rate of recall. You create a vivid mental image
to link each new word with a "memory key" to help you remember. Here are some examples:
|
Foreign
word |
English |
Memory
Key
IMAGINE THIS VIVIDLY
|
|
Aceituna (Spanish) |
Olive
(noun) |
I say “tuna”,
the waiter brings it stuffed with olives! |
|
|
|
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|
Santé (French) |
Health
(noun) |
Santa is a bodybuilder now due to a major health drive! |
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|
Masticare (Italian) |
Chew
(verb) |
I must a’ care in Italy to a’ chew hard on my pasta! |
Repeat the word while creating your mental image. Make
it personal and wacky to be memorable. Sound + image = “locked”
meaning. Be creative
and make up your own memory keys for best results.
If you group the vocabulary by theme then you further
improve your chances of recall. We have created some examples for you in the following
2 downloads, covering Food and Property (both Spanish):
http://www.getfluentfast.com/SpanishFoodVocabSample.doc
http://www.getfluentfast.com/SpanishPropertyVocabSample.doc
Memory Shortcut 2: Focus on the Most Common Words First.
It is estimated for most languages that only around 800 words cover the bulk of everyday communication.
Indeed as few as 120 words in some languages may cover up to 50% of basic speech.
Doesn't it make sense to focus your efforts on these precious few words first?
We've created the following word document to list these in English so you can write/translate
this into your target language:
Memory Shortcut 3: Create Visual Maps.
We all have different learning styles: visual, auditory, kinesthetic to name just three.
It is useful to integrate them to memorize information, especially when grappling with complex
areas of grammar. What better way to make learning fun than to draw wacky, freeform diagrams?
The following is an example visual map on Spanish pronunciation:
The more visual maps you make, the more you'll remember!
Memory Shortcut 4: Motivation and Relaxation.
Numerous studies prove that we remember better when we are relaxed and positive. Study
when you feel good and make sure your breathing and posture are correct.
Some people find gentle background music (especially classical) relaxing.
Write down your language learning goals and track your progress towards them. Here is an
example:
Convert goals into positive affirmations which you repeat often. Here are some examples:
Think of your mind like a well-tuned machine that needs to be kept in top condition at all
times. Stay "in the zone" and you'll remember beautifully.
Memory Shortcut 5: The "Loci" Method
Hang new words on items in a familiar place e.g. room by room in your home, or "attached"
to different areas of your home town.
Try to give vivid images to words, even if they are exaggerated. The more outrageous
your associations the better you remember.
Memory Shortcut 6: Repetition and Review
It is common sense that you are more likely to remember what you repeat. When
you learn a new word repeat it out loud, especially if you are an auditory learner.
Group words by theme and write a short story from them: "active use" is much better
than passive reading.
Schedule regular reviews to transfer knowledge from short-term to long-term memory.
Your discipline will pay rich rewards.
Summary of Memory Tips for Language Learning
Here is a quick recap:
Pay attention and concentrate.
Imagine vividly, make it wacky.
Use all your senses together.
Be active, associate, suggest.
Prepare and preview material.
Review regularly.
Personalise your learning.
Know your learning style.
Use systems and short-cuts.
Believe you can remember.
Innovate and improve.
Please download your FREE copy of the Get Fluent Fast booklet, which is packed with lots
more language memorization tips:
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