One interesting thing about learning is that we often remember new information better when it’s linked to a specific context.
For instance, if you meet new people, you’re more likely to remember their names if you see them again in the same setting, whether it’s a professional or leisure environment. You might struggle to recall their names if you encounter them in a completely new setting, like running into a coworker at the supermarket.
To make learning more effective, try visualising the place where you’ll need the information during the learning process — it can significantly improve retention.
Examples:
- If you are planning to give a presentation, visualise the room, lighting and people attending the presentation, and then rehearse what you are going to say.
- If you plan on taking a medication after a meal (see prospective memory), visualise yourself sitting at the dining table, and executing all tasks directly before taking the medication (putting plate and cutlery into the sink or dishwasher).
