Rote Memorization

Rote Memorization Using Repetition 

In spite of all these awesome methods for building a Power Memory the most widely used method for memorizing information is the old, traditional rote memorization, which follows the Law of Repetition. 

The dictionary�s definition for the term �rote memorization� is, �A memorizing process using routine or repetition, often without full attention or comprehension.� Rote memorization is repeating information again and again until it gets pushed into our long-term memory. 

This method is absolutely appropriate in many situations and shouldn�t be discounted. For example, everyone should memorize the multiplication tables because it is something that you will refer to your entire life and needs to be retrieved very quickly from your memory. 

I remember while learning electronics in the military that we had to memorize Ohm�s Law, which goes something like this: 

R = E / I 
I = E / R 
E = I x R 
(R=resistance, E=voltage and I=amperage or current) 

This was pounded into our minds through repetition and because of that I will probably always remember Ohm�s Law by heart. 

If you are studying by yourself the best way to memorize using rote memorization is using flash cards. Flash cards are usually 3� x 5� cards with a question; term or formula is written on one side and the answer written on the other side. The figure below is an example of two different flash cards.

Notice in the upper right hand corner the source of the information is noted.

When reading your chapter or reviewing your notes, rewrite them as flashcards. During the day take every opportunity to can to review your flashcards and memorize the information. Bus rides, standing in lines, waiting for class to start, during lunch etc. are all great times to use your flashcards to review and memorize information. 

I would also consider using electronic flashcards. You can download several shareware flashcard programs. These programs are relatively inexpensive and can be super exam prep tools. Some flashcard programs will allow you to develop multiple choice, true/false and traditional term / definition questions. They are fun to use and are super powerful! Try using flashcards for doing rote memorization on your next test. 

When doing rote memorization you need to understand that less is more. Studies have shown that we will forget more, on the average, during the first hour after leaning than during the next 24 hours; and we will forget more, on the average, during the first day than we will during the next thirty days.

To avoid this we should forget cramming or trying to memorize everything at once. Reviewing periodically is more effective. We usually remember the first and last things of what we read or what people say and the rest is lost before in a short time period. Repetitions should be strung out over as long a time as possible.