Memory Tricks to Memorize Math Formulas

When preparing for an exam that involves mathematics, it is important to ensure that you have a firm grasp of the pertinent formulas. Unfortunately, there are often numerous formulas that you have to learn for a full test, so the prospect of memorizing can be very daunting. Consequently, you might end up confused and stressed before the actual examination. Here are some practical memory tricks to help you remember math formulas more effectively.

Peruse Over the Formulas

Memory tricks are not magical, so you should not expect to get instantaneous results. The first thing that you must do is become familiar with the important formulas in the course work. Initially, you should not attempt to remember everything that you have seen. Simply peruse over your learning material such that when a theorem is mentioned or you see a question, you will have at least an idea of what is required. This is a powerful tool in building your general understanding of the presented math content.

Know the Symbols

The most challenging aspect when learning advanced math formulas are the numerous symbols used. You can memorize as many formulas as you would like, but they are useless if you do not know the values to use when a question is presented. Therefore, take note of the Greek symbols, letters and other representations and their meaning. If you are a fairly gifted student, you will probably start figuring these out intuitively. However, it is still important for every learner to write down these for reference and convenience.

Avoid Meaningless Lists

It is tempting to just make a list of all the formulas that you are required to learn for the examination. This seems expedient and quick technique to complete the preparation with limited time. However, this is not one of the practical memory tricks through which you can actually benefit. In most cases, the list will become a convoluted blur in your head, and you will end up mixing up the formulas. Instead, give each formula its own space and learn each individually before moving on. The idea is to memorize the formula and see the meaning behind it so that you will not be confused.

Use, Don’t Just Cram

You should not trust that you will know how to apply the formula during the test automatically. Therefore, you should make use of these formulas by doing practice questions when preparing for the test. This will help you work out the math faster since you know the exact steps in using the formula. With time, you can even learn how to immediately work out the question because the methodology is ingrained in you. Moreover, you will retain your memory more efficiently if you have used the knowledge instead of just plain cramming. AnalystPrep provides an exhaustive formula sheet to be used with our question bank.

Utilize Diverse Media

The human mind can retain information from different types of communication media. Therefore, you should not rely on only one method of learning. Use all the resources that you can access to increase your retention rate of the content. Flash cards are expedient; you can prepare your own or even use the digital ones provided through online channels. Audio-visual learning is effective for most people, so watch videos that explain the content. If possible, you should discuss the math formulas and some practice questions with someone else. If not, speak the formulas aloud like a teacher.

Employ Memory Techniques

True photographic memories are rare, so you will have to rely on other memory tricks to help you. Common memory techniques might not all work with math formulas, but you can improvise for great results. Consider setting your facts to the rhythm of your favorite song or even a poem with rhyming sounds. Alternatively, you can create a story that features the details of the formula as characters in the telling. If you are creative, you can also create mnemonics for the pertinent concepts.

Memory tricks are great tools for learning, but remember that mathematics cannot be mastered through foolish trickery. Therefore, you should dedicate your time to understanding so that you will be able to apply the knowledge quickly and efficiently, especially when working on long tests that will rank you based on the number of questions you can complete.