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Harness the power of active recall and spaced repetition to enhance memory and retention for judiciary exams. These proven memory retention techniques are ideal for long-term learning and revising complex legal topics. By following spaced repetition technique for long-term memory, you can improve focus, retain critical information, and study more effectively.
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What is the Forgetting curve?
The forgetting curve is a psychological phenomenon that describes how our ability to recall information declines over time if we do not actively review or rehearse the information.
The forgetting curve was first described by German psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus in the late 19th century. He found that an average subject of his experiment forgot most of the information relatively quickly, with a steep decline in recall within the first few days, followed by a more gradual decline over time.
Source- Growth Engineering
The science behind the forgetting curve has to do with the way that our brains store and retrieve memories. When we first learn something new, the information is encoded in our brains and stored in our long-term memory. However, if we don’t actively review or rehearse the information, the memory traces can become weaker over time, making it more difficult to retrieve the information when we need it.
This process is thought to be related to synaptic plasticity, which is the ability of the connections between neurons to change and adapt in response to experience. When we learn something new, the synapses between neurons are strengthened, making it easier to recall the information later. However, if we don’t reinforce those connections through review or rehearsal, the synapses can weaken, making it more difficult to retrieve the information.
Understanding the principles behind the forgetting curve can help us develop more effective strategies for learning and retaining information over time. Active recall and spaced repetition are two effective strategies for beating the forgetting curve and improving long-term memory retention.
Active recall
Active recall is based on the principle of the testing effect, which is the idea that actively recalling information from memory through testing or practice can enhance long-term memory retention.
When we actively recall information, we engage our brain in a process of retrieval and reconstruction. This process strengthens the neural pathways associated with that memory, making it easier to retrieve the information later.
In addition, when we actively recall information, we also engage in a process of metacognition or thinking about our thinking. This can help us identify gaps in our knowledge and understanding, and improve our ability to transfer knowledge to new contexts.
Research has shown that active recall is a more effective learning strategy than passive review or re-reading.
Spaced Repetition
Spaced repetition involves reviewing material at gradually increasing intervals over time. Instead of cramming all the material at once, spaced repetition helps to reinforce memories by spacing out study sessions in a way that maximises retention. This is because the brain needs time to consolidate memories, and spaced repetition allows for this consolidation to take place.
The science behind active recall suggests that it is an effective learning strategy because it engages the brain in the processes of retrieval and reconstruction, strengthens neural pathways associated with memory, and enhances metacognition and transfer of knowledge.
The optimal spacing of review sessions is determined by the forgetting curve, which describes how memory retention declines over time without review. The idea is to review the material just before it is about to be forgotten so that the memory is reinforced before it fades away.
Scientifically backed tips to help you study
Having understood the phenomenon of forgetting curve and the core concepts behind active recall and spaced repetition, here are some steps that a judiciary aspirant can take to improve memory retention:
While reading any topic, attending lectures or going through notes, consider preparing a set of questionnaires on that subject. This can be an incredibly helpful activity during revision. These questions will help you to retrieve information from your brain, instead of simply re-reading the text.
Reviewing notes regularly will help in retaining information for a longer period of time. Take a few minutes every day to review the notes taken in class or while reading a textbook.
Mnemonics is a memory technique that involves creating an association between the information to be remembered and a visual or verbal cue. For example, creating an acronym of important legal terms to remember their order.
Practice tests are an effective way to test your knowledge and improve retention. They help to identify areas that need more attention and help to reinforce learning.
Try to connect the new information to the information that you already know. This can help in the retrieval process when recalling information later.
Active learning involves engaging with the material and not just passively reading or listening. For example, try to explain concepts to someone else, create flashcards or mind maps, or write a summary of the topic in your own words.
Use diagrams, charts, and other visual aids to help in understanding and remembering complex concepts.
Taking regular breaks while studying helps to maintain focus and prevent fatigue. Studies suggest that taking a break after 45 minutes of study can be effective in improving retention.
Revision is key to improving retention. Schedule regular revision sessions, especially before exams, to ensure that the information is fresh in your mind.
By repeatedly practising retrieval of this material, you can strengthen the associated neural connections and improve your ability to recall it later.
In this blog, we have discussed few memory improvement tips using spaced repetition and active recall study method. Utilizing active recall and spaced repetition is a game-changer for judiciary aspirants aiming to maximize their learning potential. By employing these memory-boosting strategies, you can improve comprehension, recall key legal principles, and achieve better results. Let this guide transform your preparation approach.
Related Posts-
1. The Deep Work Theory: Minimising Distraction While Studying
2. Note-Making Strategies for Judiciary Aspirants: Prelims Exam
3.Staying Focused: Tips for Judiciary Aspirants to Avoid Phone Distractions During Exams
Frequently Asked Questions
Regular Physical Exercise: Engaging in daily physical activity increases blood flow to the brain, promoting the growth of new neurons and enhancing memory. Both aerobic exercises and resistance training are beneficial.
Adequate Sleep: Ensuring 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night is essential, as sleep plays a vital role in memory consolidation.
Active Recall: This study technique involves actively retrieving information from memory, rather than passively reviewing materials. Methods include using flashcards, self-quizzing, and summarizing information without referring to notes.
Spaced Repetition: Spacing out study sessions over time, rather than cramming, helps reinforce memory and improve long-term retention.
Healthy Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins supports brain health and memory function
Active recall enhances memory by forcing the brain to retrieve information, strengthening neural connections associated with the material. This process improves understanding and retention, making it more likely that the information will be remembered in the future. Techniques such as self-quizzing, teaching the material to someone else, or writing down everything you know about a topic without consulting your notes are effective forms of active recall.
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