Ever walked into another room with the goal of doing something and then completely forgetting what? This is called the ‘location updating effect,’ where information about an object is more likely to be forgotten when we move through a doorway to retrieve it. This can happen in both real or virtual settings.
What can we do about it? Knowing about this effect is a good start, so don’t be too concerned if it happens.
- When preparing to retrieve an object, consciously link it to something you take with you to the other room. For example, imagine balancing the object on your head as you move from one room to the other – this helps to form a strong mental image.
- Alternatively, write the object’s name on a piece of paper or visualise yourself doing it to improve recall. You can also visualise yourself picking up the object before moving to the other room.
- Do something new before the action you want to remember: If you spin in a circle before locking your door, you will have a good chance of remembering the physical act of locking your door.
These strategies can make memory retrieval more accessible.
