Memory Genius - Sneak Preview |
Finally, the memory system I've been experimenting with for the last year is starting to see the light. The first component is Memory Genius, a mobile app that combines spaced-repetition testing with the concept of memory palaces. Memory Genius differs from other spaced-repetition systems in that it allows you to build complex memories, rather than simple question/answer challenges.
I've published a sneak preview of Memory Genius on Google Play Amazon for my blog subscribers. Click the button below to install now, or keep reading for more information.
As already mentioned, most spaced-repetition flashcard systems force you into a question and answer format. Some even recommend you break up your complex memories into dozens of tiny atomic fragments so you can test each individually. This is the wrong thing to do.
Our strongest memories have many associations and are accessible from multiple angles. Memory Genius allows you to build such complex memories naturally. A memory in Memory Genius can have any number of associations, defined using a simple format. For example:
In a channel, the flow rate is [equivalent at any two points]. This principle is described by [the continuity equation]:
[Q = v1.A1 = v2.A2]
where
[Q = flow rate] in [m^3/s]
[v = fluid velocity] in [m/s]
[A = cross-section area] in [m^2/s]
This memory chunk consists of nine associations, shown in bold. Traditional flashcard systems would recommend you create nine flashcards, carving up your memory into isolated factoids with no connections between each other. Bad idea! Memory Genius allows you to keep your memories whole and add context to each, without sacrificing testability. This is a powerful mechanism.
Memory Genius presents each memory with all the answers hidden. Each time you tap, one additional answer is revealed. You must answer them all correctly to score for that memory. This multi-step quiz is perfect for information that is difficult to capture in traditional flashcard systems, such as:
- lists
- poetry
- song lyrics
- music
- procedures
- memory palaces
- reasoning
- anagrams
- other mnemonics
This method of describing memories even makes the most basic memories more memorable. For example,
"Mum was born on the [12th of September, 1948]."
is easier to remember as a whole chunk than the challenge-response:
Q: Mum's DOB?
A: 12 Sep, 1948.
In addition to this powerful multi-step testing, Memory Genius allows you to organise your memories into a concept map. You can test all your memories or any subtree of your concept map as you wish. The mere act of organising your memories will also help you strengthen your understanding.
The concept map was the initial motivation for developing Memory Genius. Most other software uses tags, which soon become unmanageable. Trust me, my memory database has ballooned to 19,000 memories. The only way I was able to manage my memory was to write Memory Genius!
If you need to remember stuff (you do), give Memory Genius a try. Not only does it optimise against your forgetting curve, but it is also makes testing your memory fun :)
Memory Genius - Sneak PreviewAbout Roger Keays
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Roger Keays is an artist, an engineer, and a student of life. He has no fixed address and has left footprints on 40-something different countries around the world. Roger is addicted to surfing. His other interests are music, psychology, languages, the proper use of semicolons, and finding good food. |
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