How To Memorize

Studying/Testing

A quick word on memorization (though I am a big proponent on reading and understanding):

·         If you absolutely need to memorize, use flashcards or, if all else fails, you may want to use mnemonics if you need to memorize lists. They can seriously imbed things in your brain quicker and longer than trying to memorize by revisiting over and over. When using mnemonics, try to include at least two, ideally three of the same letters of corresponding words, so you can more easily recall.

Example: Focalin=Focus, Daytrana=Daytime, Concerta=Concert.

·         Build drawings with ridiculous images and words to help memorize concepts

·         Generally, try to associate memory words, phrases, etc. with the first thing that comes to mind when you see a word. See the Depakote example below.

·         Close your eyes and try to imagine the most ridiculous things about the subject at hand, in order to memorize them. Your brain reacts to abnormal things by placing itself on high alert, and will brand these things in your brain more completely (this is why we have difficulty forgetting traumatic experiences).

o   Example: When trying to memorize aspects of a drug, such as Depakote… The first thing that came to my mind was “Depp.” So I thought of “Johnny Depp wearing a huge fur coat, riding a bicycle very fast.” Depp, Coat, and the bicycle is because it is best for rapid-cycle bipolar patients.

Kurt's Psych Drug mnenomics:

FGAs (according to potency... Thora=low, stela and navane=medium, Halo=high)
"Thor and Stella navigate the halls"
Thorazine
Stelazine
Navane
Haloperidol

SGAs: "'Close your zipper,' Sera whispered..."
Clozaril
Zyprexa
Seroquel
Risperdal


Drugs for ADHD (stimulants):

"Adderall helps me Focus on the Daytime Metallica Concert"
Adderall
Focalin
Daytrana
Metadate
Concerta