Attention and Focus: The information that is attended to is more likely to be encoded and stored in memory. Past experiences influence what is considered important, and active attention during lectures enhances memory encoding.
Multisensory Learning: Using both visual and auditory inputs increases the likelihood of effective encoding and retrieval. Visual images are particularly effective due to the "picture superiority effect."
Memory Systems: The brain has two main subsystems: working memory and long-term memory. Working memory is temporary and limited in capacity, while long-term memory is vast and durable.
Encoding and Storage: Information must be encoded from working memory into long-term memory. This process is enhanced by prior knowledge, which helps in linking new information to existing knowledge.
Chunking: To overcome the limited capacity of working memory, information can be grouped or "chunked." For example, phone numbers are remembered as chunks rather than individual digits.

Retrieval: Retrieval is the process of accessing stored information. It can fail if information is not well-organized or if it is not retrieved frequently.
Elaboration: Connecting new information to prior knowledge enhances learning and retention. Elaborative strategies, such as creating examples and linking concepts, improve long-term memory.
Testing Effect: Self-testing is a powerful learning strategy that enhances memory retention. Research shows that repeated retrieval practice, such as taking practice tests, leads to better long-term retention.
Spaced Practice: Studying in short, spaced intervals over time (spaced practice) is more effective than cramming (massed practice). Combining spaced practice with self-testing has been shown to be particularly beneficial.

Reviewing: While reviewing is common, it is not the most effective strategy on its own. It should be combined with other techniques like elaboration and self-testing.
Flashcards: Flashcards are useful for self-testing. However, regularly reviewing all cards, rather than discarding those perceived as mastered, is more effective.
Dusting Off the Cobwebs: Actively recalling information without referring to notes or books, then filling in gaps with resources, strengthens memory.
Teaching Others: Teaching content to others enhances learning and retention. Study groups where members take turns teaching each other can be particularly effective.
Study Group Strategies: Effective study groups are small (3-4 members), well-prepared, and have clear rules and roles. Technology can help overcome scheduling challenges.

Learning Styles: While learning styles such as auditory, visual, and kinesthetic are commonly discussed, there is limited research supporting their effectiveness. Instead, using multiple senses enhances learning.
Visual Learning: Visual images are more effective for memory than text. Using visual tools like charts, matrices, and concept maps can improve understanding and retention.
Active Engagement: Being cognitively and socially engaged through study groups, teaching others, and using multisensory techniques enhances learning outcomes.

Use a Multisensory Approach: Engage multiple senses to enhance encoding and retrieval.
Organize: Create comprehensive study guides using your own words, examples, and connections between concepts.
Review: Review notes multiple times across different study sessions to optimize performance.
Test: Quiz yourself regularly using available assessments or self-created quizzes.
Teach: Teach the content to someone else to reinforce learning and understanding.