Having a low capacity for short-term memory can make it difficult to remember important information and complete tasks. Here are some tips and strategies that may help deal with and compensate for the challenges that can come with having low short-term memory, as well as improving the ability:
- Minimize distractions: Minimize distractions when you’re trying to learn new information to help you focus and retain the information.
- Pay attention: Paying close attention to new information can help you remember it more easily. Focus on the information and avoid distractions while you’re trying to learn something new.
- Visualize information: Use visual imagery to help you remember information. For example, if you need to remember a list of items, create a mental image of each item and associate it with something else. Or if you need to remember a name, visualize the person’s face and associate the name with something about their appearance.
- Use association: Associate new information with something you already know. This can help create connections in your brain that make it easier to remember the new information.
- Use memory aids: Memory aids such as post-it notes, to-do lists, and calendars can be helpful in keeping track of important information and tasks.
- Organize information and break information into smaller chunks: Organizing information into categories or groups, and breaking it into smaller, more manageable chunks can make it easier to remember. For example, if you need to remember a long string of numbers, break them down into groups of three or four digits.
- Repeat information: Repeat information that you need to remember to help reinforce it in your memory. For example, if someone tells you their name, repeat it back to them to help cement it in your memory.
- Get enough sleep: Getting enough restful sleep can help improve your memory and ability to retain new information.
- Engage in regular brain exercises: Engage in activities that challenge and can help you strengthen your short-term-memory, such as puzzles, brain teasers, and memory games.
- Seek help: Talk to a healthcare professional if you are concerned about your memory or are experiencing memory loss. They may be able to recommend strategies or treatments to help improve your memory.
