9 tips to refresh your memory and recall what you studied for exam

Use Active Recall

Instead of passively rereading notes, test yourself by recalling key concepts. Close your book and try to summarize what you just studied. This strengthens memory retention

Teach Someone Else

Explaining concepts to a friend or even to yourself out loud reinforces understanding. Teaching forces you to simplify and structure the information, making it easier to remember.

Use Mnemonics and Memory Aids

Create acronyms, rhymes, or visual associations to link complex information. For example, use “VIBGYOR” to remember the colors of the rainbow. These shortcuts make recall faster.

Review Before Sleep

Going over your notes before bed helps your brain consolidate the information overnight. Studies show that sleep enhances memory retention and recall efficiency.

Space Out Your Revisions

Cramming is ineffective for long-term memory. Instead, use spaced repetition—review information at increasing intervals (e.g., after a day, a week, a month) for better recall.

Write It Down

Physically writing notes instead of just reading them helps imprint information in your brain. Summarizing key points in your own words strengthens memory connections.

Engage Multiple Senses

Read aloud, draw diagrams, or use flashcards to make learning multi-sensory. The more senses you involve, the better your brain processes and recalls the information.

Engage Multiple Senses

Read aloud, draw diagrams, or use flashcards to make learning multi-sensory. The more senses you involve, the better your brain processes and recalls the information.

Stay Hydrated and Move Around

Dehydration and lack of movement can slow brain function. Drink enough water and do light exercises or stretch breaks to keep your brain alert and improve memory retention.