Photographic memory, or eidetic memory, is the ability to remember pictures, names, words, and numbers with great precision. Eidetic memory is innate, there is no way to acquire it. However, don't worry. While you can't train yourself to have a true photographic memory, there are certain things you can do to improve your ability to remember information. Games, activities, strategies, and lifestyle changes can help.
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Part 1 of 4: Train Your Memory To Be More Precise
Step 1. Take an eidetic memory test
To test whether you have an eidetic (photographic) memory, do a basic test. Look at two similar images, and try to stack the two images together. You can take this test online via the University of Iowa. If you want, talk to your doctor about taking a certified test.
If it turns out that you don't have an eidetic memory, that's okay. This test is still great for training the brain and strengthening memory
Step 2. Use image associations
One way to help you remember something, such as the title of a book or where to put a key, is to visualize the object. For example, if the object is a book called "Greenhouse," visualize what a greenhouse looks like. By imprinting an image in your mind, you can remember the title of the book later.
Similarly, if you put your car keys on the kitchen counter, try imagining the keys doing something silly in the kitchen, like cooking or eating fruit in a fruit plate. The next time you search for the key, chances are you won't forget the ridiculous image you have created in your head
Step 3. Repeat the name
Many have a hard time remembering the name of a new person even 30 seconds after introduction. This is because we tend to focus more on ourselves (appearance, are we polite, etc.) This is especially difficult if you are introduced to several people at once.
- One way to overcome this is to repeat the person's name after getting acquainted. For example, "Nice to meet you, Sam." If you can't hear the name clearly or can't pronounce it, ask directly so you don't have to ask again later.
- Another way to remember names is to associate the new name with an acquaintance of yours who also has that name. If you don't know anyone with the same name, think of a book or movie character. Associations like these can help you remember names.
Step 4. Use the "chunking" method to remember
Chunking is a psychological term for a memory retention technique that groups numbers, words, or objects into a single list for easy recall.
- If you want to remember the contents of your shopping list, try grouping them into categories such as fruit, vegetables, frozen foods, spices, meats, etc.
- Or, divide the shopping list into dishes. For example, group lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, goat cheese, and vinegar into one chunk called the "lettuce ingredient."
- The same technique can also be used to split a number into smaller parts. This is especially helpful when you have to remember credit card numbers, insurance numbers, or phone numbers. For example, instead of remembering the sequence 77896526, divide it into 77-896-526. You'll remember it better if you share it like this.
Step 5. Minimize distractions
For many people, forgetting is not a matter of memory, but of being so distracted that they cannot learn new information effectively. If possible, try not to do several things at once. Focus all your attention on completing the activities one at a time. While it may be tempting to complete several tasks at the same time to save time, you'll be better able to remember information if you take turns. In the long run, this method will actually save time.
Part 2 of 4: Remembering What Was Read
Step 1. Read with a specific purpose
If you want to remember information, you have to know why you read it. For example, if you think, “I have to read this manual to know how to use a pressure cooker,” that will help you remember the information.
This goal can be anything. Your reasons may be simple, such as "I have to remember the cause of the Diponegoro War in order to pass the history test!" Goals will help your brain remember why you're reading and help you remember information
Step 2. Use associations to categorize the readings
Try to relate what you are reading to other parts of the book, chapter, or article. It can be helpful to think about the general arrangement of the reading and mentally sort the information into an outline of sections.
For example, in a chapter on the Diponegoro War, when you read about Daendels, you can relate it to the section of the chapter that analyzes the background of the war
Step 3. Practice visualization to create vivid memories
Creating a mental picture of the reading is very helpful in remembering the information. If you're reading how to make a pie, draw each part. Imagine the ingredients, skin, filling, and cake after it's finished.
Step 4. Concentrate on what you are reading
Avoid paying attention to other things. Multitasking will increase the chances that you won't remember information. Instead, focus the intensity of your attention on the reading and ignore anything else.
Don't watch TV or chat while reading something you want to remember
Part 3 of 4: Making Lifestyle Changes
Step 1. Prioritize relaxation
There are many ways to reduce stress and anxiety. Spend time doing activities you enjoy, especially outdoor activities. Choose activities that promote mindfulness, such as yoga or taici.
Another way to reduce anxiety and depression is to socialize more often. Reach out to friends, family, and loved ones, and don't dwell on your own thoughts too much
Step 2. Play games and do puzzles to train the brain
The brain is like the muscles of the body. The more often you train, the better your performance will be. Unfortunately, many people are so caught up in their daily routines that they can work with their brains working on autopilot. So, try to do some brain-stimulating activities a week.
Do crossword puzzles as a mental exercise
Step 3. Read something every day
Learning new information is a great way to sharpen your memory. Even if you don't like reading, try to read every day even a little. Choose a book that interests you and make a commitment to read a chapter or even just 5 pages a day. Any genre doesn't matter, you can read fiction or nonfiction.
Read the newspaper to keep up with the latest events. It will also train the brain
Step 4. Learn something new to refresh your brain
Apart from reading, you can also train your memory by learning new skills. You can study a specific topic or try a new hobby or sport. Choose a skill that interests you.
- Learn a new language or musical instrument.
- Sign up for a course.
Step 5. Exercise more often
Physical activity increases blood flow to all parts of the body, including the brain. Exercise can increase the transfer of oxygen and important nutrients to the brain so that it performs better. Aim for at least 30 minutes of aerobic exercise five days a week.
- It is very important to do exercise evenly throughout the week so that blood flow to the brain increases regularly. Even if you don't have time to intentionally exercise, at least make time for a brisk 10-minute walk.
- Make small lifestyle changes to increase mobility, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator.
Part 4 of 4: Choosing Foods That Help Memory
Step 1. Eat lots of Omega-3
Omega-3 fatty acids are great for overall brain health and have been shown to strengthen memory. Try to eat fish several times a week. Good choices are salmon, bluefin tuna, and sardines. Try grilling or grilling fish to maximize its nutritional value.
If you don't like fish, talk to your doctor about replacing it with fish oil supplements
Step 2. Eat a few servings of vegetables
The guideline is to eat 3-5 servings of vegetables every day. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and leafy greens like kale are helpful. Try eating kale lettuce or sauteed broccoli and salmon.
Step 3. Increase the consumption of walnuts
These beans can improve understanding. You can eat a handful of walnuts as a snack. You can also add walnuts to yogurt or lettuce.
Walnuts are also good for the heart and are a great source of protein
Step 4. Eat berries and cherries regularly
These fruits can strengthen memory. Add blueberries to your breakfast oatmeal or eat fresh cherries as an afternoon snack.
Frozen berries also contain nutrients, please prepare them in stock
Step 5. Cut down on alcoholic drinks
Drinking too much alcohol can block key receptors in the brain needed for memory retention, and can release steroids that interfere with learning and memory. However, there is evidence that drinking in moderation may actually protect long-term memory. It may be safe to consume 1-2 glasses of wine per day.
Ask the doctor the right amount of consumption for you
Tips
- Try different strategies to find a way that works. Don't be afraid to be creative.
- If you have severe anxiety or depression, talk to your doctor before diagnosing or trying self-treatment.
