- Why do we forget so quickly?
- Ebbinghaus and his discoveries
- The forgetting curve
- Strategies to Retain Knowledge
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Why do we forget so quickly?
Have you ever wondered why it seems like we forget everything we learn in the blink of an eye?
A recent analysis reveals that, on average, two-thirds of what we learn evaporates in less than 24 hours.
It's as if our memory has a leak! This phenomenon is not only frustrating but also leads us to seek effective strategies to retain what we've learned.
Memory is the heroine in our educational adventure. It helps us connect new concepts with previous experiences, enriching us.
But, without the right techniques, that heroine can turn into a villain that leaves us empty-handed. Don't let that happen to you!
Imagine a scientist of the time, with his white coat and notebook, exploring the human mind!
Ebbinghaus became the first subject of his experiments and used nonsense syllables to prevent his prior memories from interfering. His methodology was so rigorous that it could have impressed any university professor.
One of his most striking findings was that memory is activated better when the material makes sense.
It's as if our neurons throw a party when there is meaning! Additionally, he discovered that repeating information helps to remember it, but with a trick: the first repetitions are the most effective.
It's as if your brain says "thank you" for the extra attention!
The forgetting curve
Now, let's talk about the famous forgetting curve. This graph, which looks like a roller coaster, shows how quickly we forget what we've learned. After one hour, we have already forgotten more than half of the information.
That's not good news for those studying for an exam! However, understanding how this process works gives us tools to combat it.
With spaced repetition, we can reinforce our memory at key moments.
Can you imagine reviewing that information just before it's about to be forgotten?
That's exactly what the technique proposes. Instead of cramming information in one night, it's better to space out the reviews.
First, make sure to give meaning to what you learn. Relate new concepts to previous experiences. Make your brain make connections! Then, implement spaced repetition.
Not only is it more effective, but it will also help you feel more confident with the material you study.
Additionally, consider personalization. Each of us has a different learning pace. Adjust your review intervals according to what you need to remember. If a concept is more challenging for you, don’t hesitate to spend more time on it.
Confidence in learning translates to motivation. And that motivation is the fuel we need!
Ultimately, while memory may seem like a complicated puzzle, there are ways to put the pieces together. Understanding how your memory works allows you to not only learn but also enjoy the process.
So, the next time you face a new topic, remember Ebbinghaus and his forgetting curve.
You can conquer that roller coaster!
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