How I Fixed My Terrible Memory (when active recall doesn't work)

Summary

This video script addresses common study struggles, emphasizing the importance of active recall and effortful learning to improve retention. The speaker shares personal experiences and strategies, such as creating mind maps and revisiting foundational concepts when struggling with memorization. They caution against passive studying methods like flashcard cramming and advocate for novel learning techniques to enhance memory formation.

Takeaways

• 📚 Active recall is essential for effective learning, and it requires effortful studying to strengthen neural connections in the brain.
• 🔄 To improve memory retention, it's important to avoid passive studying and instead engage in active learning techniques.
• 🚫 Common mistakes in studying include quickly flipping through flashcards without deeply engaging with the material.
• 🔑 Active recall involves spending time on each question, thinking critically about the answer and the context of the topic.
• 🔄 If information isn't sticking, it might be due to a lack of novelty in the learning approach; trying new methods can help.
• 🧠 The hippocampus is responsible for collecting memories, and novel experiences trigger dopamine release, aiding memory formation.
• 🗺️ When struggling with a topic, creating a mind map from the foundational level can help build a comprehensive understanding.
• 🔄 After getting a question wrong, revisiting the basics and working back up can reinforce learning and memory.
• 📝 Listing out all related concepts and creating a mental model or mind map can provide a structured approach to learning.
• 🔑 Mind maps help in categorizing and linking new information to existing knowledge, making it easier to remember.
• 🚫 Avoid the trap of just reading the correct answer briefly; instead, engage with the material in a way that promotes deeper understanding.

Q & A

What is the main issue the speaker is addressing in the script?

The speaker is addressing the issue of ineffective studying methods that do not lead to long-term retention of information.

What does the speaker suggest is the key to effective learning?

The speaker suggests that the key to effective learning is active recall and putting effort into understanding and remembering the material.

Why does the speaker believe that simply reading through flashcards is not effective?

The speaker believes that simply reading through flashcards is not effective because it lacks the effortful process of active recall, which is necessary for strengthening neural connections and long-term memory.

What is the speaker's opinion on the importance of effortful studying?

The speaker emphasizes that effortful studying, such as active recall and creating mind maps, is crucial for better understanding and long-term retention of information.

What is the role of novelty in learning according to the script?

According to the script, novelty plays a significant role in learning as it triggers the release of dopamine in the hippocampus, which enhances memory formation.

Why does the speaker recommend creating a mind map when studying?

The speaker recommends creating a mind map to build a foundational understanding of a topic and to link concepts together in a meaningful way, which aids in long-term retention.

What should one do if they get a question wrong or can't remember it properly?

If one gets a question wrong or can't remember it, they should go back to the basics, list out all related concepts, and create a mind map to establish a mental model of the topic.

What is the speaker's strategy for dealing with topics that are difficult to remember?

The speaker's strategy involves creating a comprehensive mind map for difficult topics, ensuring that all concepts are linked and categorized in a way that can be easily recalled.

How does the speaker describe the process of learning from mistakes in studying?

The speaker describes the process of learning from mistakes as revisiting the material in a new or different way, such as using a new technique or resource, and creating a mind map to reinforce understanding.

What is the significance of the hippocampus in memory formation as mentioned in the script?

The hippocampus is significant in memory formation as it is the region of the brain where memories are collected, and novel learning experiences can trigger dopamine release, enhancing memory retention.

Why does the speaker argue against simply reading the correct answer after getting a question wrong?

The speaker argues against this because it does not involve the effortful process of learning and understanding; it is a passive approach that does not lead to long-term retention of information.

Outlines

00:00

📚 Overcoming Passive Study Habits

The speaker discusses the ineffectiveness of passive studying methods, such as mindlessly going through flashcards without truly engaging with the material. They emphasize the importance of active recall and effortful studying to strengthen neural connections. The speaker admits to previously using ineffective cramming techniques but has since adopted a more effective approach, which includes creating mind maps and actively linking concepts. They suggest that if information isn't 'sticking,' it's likely due to a lack of active recall and recommend spending more time on each question to think critically and establish connections with known information.

05:02

🧠 Enhancing Memory Through Novelty and Mind Maps

The second paragraph delves into the concept of memory formation in the hippocampus and the role of novelty in enhancing memory retention. The speaker suggests that when studying, incorporating new methods or resources can help with remembering information better. They share a personal strategy of revisiting the foundational concepts of a topic when faced with difficulties, using mind maps to create a comprehensive mental model. This approach involves listing all related concepts and visually organizing them, which not only aids in understanding the specific issue at hand but also builds a strong base for future learning. The speaker contrasts this method with the ineffectiveness of briefly reviewing correct answers after making mistakes, advocating for a more integrated and holistic learning experience.

Keywords

💡Active Recall

Active recall is a learning technique where students must retrieve information from memory during the learning process. It is a key concept in the video, as the speaker emphasizes its importance for effective learning. The speaker mentions that not doing active recall is likely the reason why viewers may feel like nothing is 'sticking' in their memory. An example from the script is the critique of merely 'spamming through flashcards' without truly testing oneself, which does not constitute active recall.

💡Effortful Learning

Effortful learning refers to the process of engaging deeply with the material, requiring mental effort and concentration. The video's theme revolves around the idea that true learning happens when one puts in the effort to understand and remember information actively. The speaker illustrates this by explaining that simply reading the correct answer after failing to recall it is not enough; one must engage in effortful learning to truly remember.

💡Mind Map

A mind map is a visual tool used to organize information, typically used for studying and note-taking. In the video, the speaker suggests creating a mind map as a method to build a foundational understanding of a topic. This technique is highlighted as a way to structure knowledge and make connections between different concepts, which is essential for effective learning and memory retention.

💡Novelty

Novelty in the context of learning refers to the introduction of new and different methods or experiences to enhance memory and understanding. The speaker mentions that learning in a novel way can trigger the release of dopamine, which aids in memory formation. An example from the script is the suggestion to use a new technique or resource when studying the same material repeatedly without success.

💡Hippocampus

The hippocampus is a region in the brain that plays a critical role in memory formation, particularly in the consolidation of new information from short-term to long-term memory. The video discusses how learning something in a novel way can stimulate the hippocampus, leading to better memory retention, which is vital for understanding the process of effective studying.

💡Pattern Recognition

Pattern recognition is the ability to identify regularities or patterns in information, which can sometimes lead to superficial learning. In the video, the speaker criticizes the approach of relying on pattern recognition by repeatedly viewing the same content without truly understanding it, suggesting that this method does not lead to deep learning or long-term retention.

💡Foundational Level

The foundational level refers to the basic or fundamental understanding of a subject. The speaker advises going back to the foundational level of a topic when struggling to remember or understand it. This approach is exemplified in the script by the recommendation to create a mind map starting from the basics and building up a comprehensive understanding.

💡Memory Boosting

Memory boosting refers to techniques or processes that enhance the ability to remember information. The video discusses how learning in a novel way can create a memory-boosting effect by releasing dopamine in the hippocampus. This concept is integral to the video's message about the importance of engaging with material in a way that promotes better memory retention.

💡Categorization

Categorization is the process of organizing information into groups based on common characteristics. In the context of the video, the speaker uses categorization as part of the mind map creation process, which helps in structuring knowledge and making it easier to remember. An example from the script is the speaker's personal method of categorizing upper GI diseases based on their symptoms.

💡Mental Model

A mental model is an internal representation of knowledge or understanding of a concept or phenomenon. The video emphasizes the importance of creating a mental model as a way to structure and remember complex information. The speaker illustrates this by discussing the creation of a mind map that serves as a mental model for understanding and remembering a topic.

💡Effortful Process

An effortful process refers to any activity that requires significant mental effort and concentration. The speaker in the video describes the effortful process of sitting and thinking about a question or topic, which is crucial for active learning and memory retention. This concept is highlighted through the speaker's critique of quickly flipping through flashcards without engaging in the effortful process of recalling information.

Highlights

The importance of active recall in studying and its impact on memory retention.

The ineffectiveness of passively studying and the need for effortful learning.

The common mistake of 'spamming' through flashcards without truly engaging with the material.

The benefits of creating mind maps for a deeper understanding and better memory retention.

The need to spend time with each question during active recall to strengthen neural connections.

The misconception that simply reading the correct answer after failing to recall is effective.

The role of novelty in learning and how it can enhance memory formation.

The recommendation to revisit the foundational concepts of a topic when struggling to remember.

The process of creating a mental model using a mind map to categorize and link concepts.

The practical steps to take when getting a question wrong, including listing concepts and creating a mind map.

The advantage of having a mental structure for new information, making it easier to remember.

The comparison between the temporary retention from pattern recognition versus the lasting memory from active learning.

The personal experience of the speaker in transitioning from a 'nerd' studying 24/7 to a more efficient learner.

The speaker's confession of making common studying mistakes and the realization of their impact.

The advice against creating mind maps for every detail but rather for important and frequently tested topics.

The speaker's encouragement to share study difficulties in the comments for further guidance.

The upcoming guides and videos promised by the speaker to address common study issues.

Transcripts

saying I'm studying but nothing I'm

doing is working nothing I'm learning is

clicking and regardless I've never been

able to remember anything anyways what's

the point I can't do what you do firstly

I didn't know how to do anything a few

years ago I was a huge nerd and all I

did was study 24/7 now I only study a

couple hours a week and I bump it up for

the exams and I'm killing it how because

I fix the way I remember things I'll

explain everything in this video but

listen if nothing is actually sticking

in your head when you're studying I 100%

know that you aren't doing the active

recall you're not doing some part of the

studying in the right ways yes testing

yourself is hard it's effort it's tiring

and that is the point you've probably

heard all of this before really working

hard to force the knowledge out of your

head when you're studying testing

yourself in a way that is effortful all

of it strengthens the connections in

your brain right but what do you

actually end up doing because in theory

when you watch these videos all of this

effective learning stuff is lovely it

makes perfect sense but in practice how

are you answering each and every

question how are you learning from your

mistakes in order to remember better the

next time because I 100% know that you

are messing up in one of two ways number

one you're just spamming through the

flash cards the question spending 3

seconds if that thinking about the

question thinking about an answer and

then just flicking to it I know you're

doing this and the reason I know that

you're doing this is because I'm guilty

of the same crap 95% of the medic

friends I have that I watch study every

day are guilty of the same crap we just

have this bug in our head that we have

to just get through content cram it in

do 400 Ane cards today 500 po medicine

questions and yeah something probably

will stick but it won't be from actual

learning it'll be from pattern

recognition because you've seen the same

thing so many times so many times over

and over again that it eventually your

mind will get used to that information

and you won't remember nor understand it

even a few days from now honestly

speaking my exams were like 20 days ago

and the topics that I just did Brute

Force questioning on that I just did

practice questions on again and again I

barely remember anything about them

whereas the stuff I took a little bit of

extra effort onto doing I scoped them

properly I created a way to link

everything by creating a mind map I did

their questions properly those I

honestly remember almost perfectly and

because I put more effort into active

learning for them because I didn't just

Spam through questions I ended up

learning them in way less hours much

more effectively than the topics I was

just spamming the questions on anyways

I'll go through that all properly but

the first action point is to take time

with the recall and put effort into each

and every question even if you don't

remember it well the act of just sitting

there and spending time thinking okay

what could the answer be what is the

wider context of the topic what can I

remember is there a way I can work

backwards somehow or connect it to

something that I know can I think

critically about what this question

means how can I somehow get even a sver

of the correct answer that effortful

process is what will help you in the

long run of remembering the content now

the second mistake that you're making

that I actually think is much bigger

than the first one is this when you're

doing questions testing yourself trying

to remember the answer nothing is

sticking what do you do because I'm

betting what most of you do is just read

the correct answer for 2 minutes and

boom move on and you know that sucks you

know that doesn't work you are doing

well while testing yourself but if you

can't remember the knowledge stop being

lazy you need to study the material in a

new way in a different way that allows

you to remember it better for the next

time we collect memories in a region of

the brain called the hippocampus which

is deep in the temporal lope and when

you learn something in a novel New Way

naturally occurring dopamine is released

in there which in turn creates memory

boosting effects which makes sense right

the majority of your memories are not

the monotonous same 9 to 5 week in

School uni work your most memorable

moments are the new and novel

experiences so replicate that idea into

your studying when you're not able to

remember what you learn one way to

remember it better is to add some

novelty to learn it in a new way now

what this means practically is learning

the topic using a new technique or a new

resource for example watching a video or

teaching it to a friend or whatever but

what's most effective what I do most

often when I'm reflecting back on how

I've been learning things and I think

this is better than just learning it

using a new technique or something is

that when you get a question wrong when

you can't remember read properly you go

back to the basics the like the Baseline

most foundational level of the topics

and work back up from the ground up and

what this practically means is going

back to the topic looking at it from a

big picture and creating a mental model

of it using a mind map and the way you

do this the action step if you get a

question wrong if you can't remember it

properly is to number one list out each

and every concept not just to do with

that specific question that you got

wrong or didn't remember properly every

concept related to that whole topic and

number two think about a unique way that

you can link every everything you can

categorize everything and put it on a

mind map trust me even though I know

this will take up to 30 minutes it will

take time especially if you're a

beginner once you do it for a full topic

you are building a base for it for every

question that you will now encounter you

are not only just learning the basics of

this one concept that you just

encountered in this question you are

learning the basics of every concept

that can come up just think about the

amount of time that saves by the way

I've made videos on how I create these

mind maps I can link live ones up here

check them out but for me for example if

I ever get a question on some upper GI

disease to do with esophagus for example

in my head I know I split them up into

the ones with swelling problems

dysphasia and the ones with leading

problems and then I further structure

them into the structure and then the

intensity so now any new fact you throw

at me about any of the 89 conditions

that I've learned to do with the upper

GI tract or even if you give me new

conditions anything you give to me I

will be able to fit somewhere on my mind

map that is in my head is I drew it on

paper yes but it is in my head when I'm

learning new things right because what I

spent like 40 minutes creating a

baseline for all of these conditions

what 4 weeks ago but because that base

is there even if that mind map was crap

even if it wasn't perfect of course I

can go and fix it and change it later on

but because I've laid That Base there

because even if the Mind map isn't

perfect in my head even if there was

full of mistakes because I've built the

basic structure whenever I learned

anything new I can go back to it in my

head and put it somewhere on that my map

I can keep on creating new categories

different ways to remember which

investigations are for which diseases or

whatever I'm trying to learn now I will

for ever be able to add to this mind map

I have something to link all the new

knowledge that I'm learning to and put

it in my head in comparison if I just

spent 2 minutes reading through the

answer to some question that I about

something that I don't even know

something I got wrong something I didn't

understand properly and I spent 2

minutes reading it and then 5 minutes

later I forget it what is the point what

am I gaining from it where is it going

in my head how am I changing anything

about how I'm understanding this now

obviously be sensible don't just start

creating mind maps and putting all this

effort in for random details that for

Niche questions but if it's a big topic

if you keep getting the questions wrong

if you aren't able to remember or

understand a very important topic

properly this is the solution I just

wanted to make a quick video on this

because even I make these mistakes I've

seen so many people make the people my

comments have been i' I've had six

comments this week asking me oh I'm

doing active recall and I can't get it

to stick nothing is sticking nothing is

clicking firstly make sure you're

actually testing yourself properly in

the first place and second build a basic

Foundation of all the concepts in that

topic by creating a mind map have

everything Link in your head and then

attack it with active recall you'll do

way better that way and remember it for

way longer anyways guys I hope your

exams are going well drop any

difficulties you've been having while

studying in the comments I will make a

video with you have a lot of people

comment me the same stuff a lot of

people commented and messaged me this

week about creating a video like this

and I did it it was a quick video for me

this is easy I have huge guides and

videos coming out this month but if you

have any issues spam them in the

comments this is where you get the

solutions leave a like subscribe to the

channel do the usual stuff and I will

see you in the next one peace