Mnemonic Devices  

Mnemonic devices are aids for improving one’s memory.  These devices can be much more efficient than rote memory techniques (simple repetition).  Mnemonic devices are more effective because they generally attach new information to be learned to old information already mastered, or to catch words or phrases that are more easily remembered. 

Jingles

Days in each month—30 days has September, April, June, and November
Spelling generalization—“i” before “e”, except after “c”

Acronyms (catchwords)

The Great Lakes—Homes  

Acrostics (catch phrases)

Colors in the Spectrum—Roy G. Biv 
The order of planets from the sun—My very educated mother just served us nine pickles.

Procedure for developing them

Step 1:  Present information to be learned.  Underline the first letter of each word.

Step 2:  Devise a word or phrase (nonsense or otherwise) using each letter underlined.

Example:  Chemistry – 7 diatomic molecules

Bromine, Hydrogen, Chlorine, Fluorine, Oxygen, Nitrogen, Iodine

Catch phrase:  Brian helps Claire find out new ideas.

If you would like to learn more about mnemonic devices, schedule an appointment with someone in Learning Support Services by calling 663-2281.

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