The human brain can only remember 7(+/- 2) unrelated arbitrary things at once before it becomes overwhelmed and have to give one up to remember a new thing. However if we give the information meaning, connection or relevant context it’s much easier to remember. That’s why the goal for learning should always be to understand over memorize, because it’s easier!
Quote
“Have a look at the following number sequence only once and try to remember it right away: 11 95 82 19 62 31 96 64 19 70 51 97 4. That’s difficult, as it has clearly more than seven digits. But it is quite easy when you realise that these are just five years of the World Cup numbered consecutively. Therefore, you have to remember much less than seven individual items. You only have to remember two–the rule and the starting year. This is why it is so much easier to remember things we understand than things we don’t.”
Connections
Develop understanding to remember better
Reference
Book: How to Take Smart Notes Author: Sönke Ahrens Location: 1057