Supporting techniques that strengthen recall and understanding
Memory aids can be powerful — when used correctly.
This page explains how to use memory support strategies alongside active recall and exam practice, so information is easier to remember and retrieve in exams.
👉 Watch the video below, then use these techniques to strengthen your revision.
Who benefits from memory aids?
These strategies are ideal for:
Students who struggle to remember lists or sequences
KS3 students developing independent revision skills
GCSE students under exam pressure
Parents supporting recall at home
Memory aids work best when combined with active recall and exam practice.
Memory aids support revision — they don’t replace it
Memory techniques:
Help trigger recall
Reduce cognitive load
Improve speed under pressure
However, they only work well when students:
Understand the content first
Test recall regularly
Practise applying knowledge
Used properly, they strengthen everything else.
CORE STRATEGIES
Mnemonics & Acronyms
What it is:
Using memorable words or phrases to recall lists, steps, or sequences.
How to use it properly:
Create a word or sentence where each letter represents a key point
Make it memorable or unusual
Always know what each letter stands for
Mnemonics help recall — they do not replace understanding.
Teach It to Someone Else
What it is:
Explaining a topic as if you are the teacher.
How to use it properly:
Explain the topic out loud using simple language
Teach a person, wall, or recording
Identify any part you struggle to explain clearly
If you can teach it, you understand it.
Question Transformation
What it is:
Turning notes into questions that test memory.
How to use it properly:
Rewrite headings and bullet points as questions
Answer from memory
Check and improve responses
Questions trigger recall far better than statements.
HOW TO USE THIS IN REAL REVISION
Example: Memory Support Session (25 Minutes)
10 minutes – Active recall questions
5 minutes – Mnemonics or question transformation
5 minutes – Teach the topic out loud
5 minutes – Review weak points
These techniques should support, not replace, core revision methods.
COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID
Avoid these mistakes:
Using mnemonics without understanding the content
Relying on memory tricks alone
Memorising without practising application
Never testing recall
Memory aids work best as reinforcement tools.
What to do next
Once recall is supported effectively, return to exam technique and practice.
These strategies:
Are recommended by experienced teachers and examiners
Support recall across Maths, English, and Science
Improve speed and confidence in exams
Used correctly, memory aids help students recall information when it matters most.
👉 Next: Exam Technique & Mark Maximisation
👉 Back to: Revision Resources
