russia has launched a full-scale war in Ukraine. Donate to support Ukraine and protect the world’s peace.
Your memory is not a fixed quantity; it is a skill that can be improved with certain techniques. Memory improvement books aim to provide you with methods, backed by neuroscience and cognitive psychology, to retain more information, recall it faster, and maintain a sharp mind as you age.
If you're a student trying to take in a ton of information, a working professional with multiple, complex projects, or if you're just tired of not remembering where you put your keys, these books help break down how memory actually works and what you can do to improve it. You can learn about ancient methods of memory improvement that are still in use today, as well as modern research into brain plasticity.
Memory improvement books typically begin with an introduction, explaining what actually happens when you remember or forget something. Your brain is not a filing cabinet, and it does not hold discrete memories. Rather, your brain is actively and continuously rebuilding memories every time you access them, and details about those memories can shift over time, depending on the access point
The memory improvement literature teaches straightforward techniques you can start applying right away. Mnemonics, such as those used in the method of loci (memory palace), have been employed since ancient Greece because they are effective. You'll learn how to break down information using chunking strategies that turn it into manageable, memorable pieces, about spaced repetition for moving things into long-term memory, and visualization techniques to make abstract concepts stick in your mind.
Memory improvement books cover the habits and systems that will support the use of memory improvement techniques to enhance memory over the long haul. That means managing stress, remaining engaged and cognitively active with cognitively demanding tasks, and avoiding cognitive laziness that results from relying too heavily on keyword searches on your phone.
The most effective books on memory improvement provide theory and applications; you get the science you need to understand why something works, and then you get exercises to build the skill.
The goal of improving your memory is not about becoming a memory champion (unless that's your thing), but rather to reduce the frustration of forgetting things that are important to you, learn more effectively, and keep your brain healthy. Books on memory improvement provide you with the tools to achieve all of that!
by Barbara Oakley PhD, Terrence Sejnowski PhD, Alistair McConville
by Peter C. Brown, Mark A. McDaniel, PhD, Henry L. Roediger III, PhD
by Kevin Horsley
by James Bridle
by Lisa Genova
by Scott Barry Kaufman, PhD, Carolyn Gregoire
by Dr. Gary Klein
by Nicolas Carter
by Daniel H. Pink
by Ethan Kross, PhD
'Moonwalking with Einstein' is a fantastic work by Joshua Foer, a journalist who trained for the US Memory Championship and explains the techniques he learned to improve your own memory skills. If you're looking for something a bit more science-based, 'Make It Stick,' written by Peter C. Brown, draws on information from learning and memory research and presents it in an accessible manner.
This is a spaced repetition schedule, where the new information is reviewed after 2 days, then at 7 days, and finally at 30 days. The timing of those review dates aligns with how your brain forms memories. Overall, for this type of memory in the long term, it is easy to maintain and works with your brain in line with your natural rhythms.
'To Kill a Mockingbird,' 'The Diary of Anne Frank,' and '1984' are all memorable books that create a stronger emotional connection, imprinting themselves on the brain's guiding framework. Also, 'The Alchemist' sticks with everyone because it is simply written, and it is relatable since the purpose of the book is universal belief.
Keep your brain sharp by regularly engaging in cognitive activities. Exercise regularly, as it increases blood flow to the brain. Sleep for 7 to 9 hours, as it is a time for the brain to consolidate memories. Use memory improvement strategies (for example, visualization or memory palaces). Reduce stress in a way that works for you, which may include meditation, calming breathing exercises, or taking walks in nature.
'Moonwalking with Einstein' by Joshua Foer makes memory improvement interesting and accessible. 'Unlimited Memory' by Kevin Horsley gives you a system to practice pretty much right away. 'Remember It!' by Nelson Dellis is a hands-on, practical guide with exercises. 'Make It Stick' by Peter C. Brown talks about learning scientifically.
Yes, reading exercises the brain and requires a certain amount of focus and comprehension. Books specifically about memory give you memory strategies that work when practiced. Reading also encourages the development of neural connections and vocabulary — two things that are related to better cognitive performance. However, simply reading is probably not enough for improvement — you cannot just read it; it requires active participation and practice, not passive reading.
Self-growth
Business & Career
Success
Communication
Healing
Relationships
Psychology
Happiness
