Almost everyone forgets things from time to time, regardless of age or intelligence. People’s names, where we parked our cars, and things we needed from the store are all common things we frequently forget....CONTINUE READING THE FULL ARTICLE>>>
This forgetting can occasionally be annoying and have serious repercussions. But it’s important to realize that forgetting is a brain function that happens naturally. In this post, we’ll look at some of the causes of our forgetfulness as well as some methods for enhancing it.
Causes of Forgetfulness
1. Encoding failure
Information is moved from short-term to long-term memory by encoding. It is the initial phase of memory formation. We occasionally lose track of things when the information was not properly encoded. Failure in encoding is what this is.
Incorrect encoding prevents information from being stored in long-term memory, which prevents us from retrieving it later. This could occur when we are not paying attention, when we are preoccupied, or when the information is irrelevant to us.
2. Decay
Deterioration is the second cause of our forgetfulness. When memories deteriorate over time, decay happens. A memory is more likely to deteriorate the longer we are unable to recall it. For instance, you might eventually forget a lot of what you learned if you studied a new language in school but never used it again.
3. Interference
When similar memories compete with one another, interference occurs. Proactive and reactive interference are the two different kinds. When fresh memories conflict with existing ones, this is known as proactive interference, which makes it difficult to remember new knowledge. Retroactive interference occurs when fresh memories clash with stored ones, making it challenging to recall prior knowledge.
4. Retrieval failure
Retrieval failure is the fourth factor contributing to our forgetfulness. When we are unable to access a memory that is kept in our long-term memory, this is known as retrieval failure. This frequently happens because there aren’t any indicators or suggestions to assist us retain the knowledge. For instance, if you forget your password, you might not be able to recall the cues you established to make sure you remember it.
Things You Can Do to Boost Your Memory
1. Take Notice
You must pay attention to the information in order to accurately encode it. This entails putting aside all outside distractions, paying attention, and participating in the content. Try to avoid distractions while learning new knowledge, such as TV, social media, and loud music. Instead, look for a peaceful area where you can concentrate on the information without being distracted.
2. Reiterate the facts
Repetition is a powerful tool for encoding knowledge into long-term memory. Repetition helps to strengthen the brain connections that are connected to a memory. This makes it simpler to remember the details later. For instance, you should repeat new words or phrases repeatedly until they are ingrained in your mind when learning a new language.
3. Use acronyms
Mnemonics are tools for memory that aid in information retention. Mnemonic devices might take the shape of rhymes, acronyms, or visual aids. By connecting the knowledge you want to remember with another object that is simple to recall, mnemonics help you remember it. For instance, the acronym “My very excited mother just served us nine pizzas” can be used to memorize the planets in the following order: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, Pluto.
4. Obtained Enough Sleep
A strong memory depends on getting enough sleep. The brain strengthens and consolidates memories as you sleep. Lack of sleep has been linked to problems with memory retrieval and consolidation, according to studies. Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep each night to enhance your memory…CONTINUE READING>>
