Memory has 3 stages: Encoding (getting info in), Storage
(keeping it), and Retrieval (getting it out). Most students fail at
encoding—they read passively instead of actively processing. Use multiple techniques
to encode deeply, test yourself often to strengthen retrieval, and sleep well to
consolidate storage.
Memory Techniques to Use Today
🏛️ Memory Palace
Using
Place items to remember in locations of a familiar place you can mentally walk through.
My Palace Location
🔗 Chunking
Using
Group related items together into meaningful chunks (like phone numbers: 555-123-4567).
My Chunks
📝 Acronyms/Acrostics
Using
Create words from first letters (NASA) or sentences (My Very Eager Mother...).
My Acronyms
🎨 Visualization
Using
Create vivid, unusual mental images. The weirder and more emotional, the better.
My Visual
Encoding Sessions
Session 1: First Encoding
What I'm Memorizing
Technique Used
Connection/Association I Made
Time Spent
Session 2: Re-encoding + Testing
What I'm Re-encoding
Additional Technique
Recalled Without Looking?
What I Forgot
Item Encoding Tracker
Item to Remember
Technique
Encoded?
Tested?
Recalled?
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🧪 Retrieval Practice Test
Q1: Without looking, what is...
□ Correct□ Partial□ Forgot
Q2: Without looking, what is...
□ Correct□ Partial□ Forgot
Q3: Without looking, what is...
□ Correct□ Partial□ Forgot
💡 Mnemonics I Created Today
For Remembering
My Mnemonic
For Remembering
My Mnemonic
Retention Confidence Scale
How well will I remember this tomorrow?
1 Gone
2
3
4
5 Solid
😴 Sleep & Memory Consolidation
__h
Last Night's Sleep
__:__
Tonight's Target Bedtime
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Review Before Bed?
Daily Memory Summary
__
Items Encoded
__%
Recall Rate
__
Mnemonics Created
__
Techniques Used
Reflection
Which memory technique worked best for me?
What will I review again tomorrow?
How to Use This Planner
Choose 1-2 memory techniques that fit your material.
Actively encode each item—don't just read, create associations.
Test yourself immediately after encoding (retrieval practice).
Create mnemonics for tricky items—the sillier, the better.
Rate your retention confidence to guide tomorrow's review.
Do a quick review before bed—sleep consolidates memory.
Get enough sleep! It's essential for memory formation.