No doubt you’ll agree that the ability to remember is very important. Having a good memory can give you an advantage in school, on your job and in other areas. There are many things you can do to improve your memory and to give you that edge. Read this article to get some suggestions.

If you need to remember a complicated piece of information, use the mnemonics technique. This is a way of associating the information with something that is common and familiar. When you make that association, you can think of the common item, and it will trigger your memory of the more complicated piece of information.

When trying to remember any type of information the key is repetition. The more something is repeated in your mind the more likely you are to keep it in your long term memory. For example, if you meet someone new, repeat their name in your head at least three times while looking at them.

Retaining knowledge is only hard when you start to doubt yourself, so always be sure that you’re as confident as possible when studying or attempting to learn anything. Doubt creeping in causes you to only recall the doubt. It doesn’t necessarily make you forget, but it certainly doesn’t help you to remember.

Stop telling yourself you have a weak memory. When you say these things you begin to plant the thought in your mind and it becomes a reality. Remind yourself constantly that you have a great memory and you can remember anything as long as you put your mind to the task. You will see an improvement in your recall ability.

Use regular study sessions over a period of time rather than a single cramming session. Studies have shown that if you study material over a course of a few days, you have a better chance of remembering it than if you cram in a single night. So instead of cramming the night before a test, establish a regular study time each night or every other night.

Avoid smoking cigarettes to keep your memory from being negatively affected. Studies have shown that the memory of smokers suffers more than compared to non-smokers. You probably didn’t need yet another reason to quit, but maybe this will be the one that lets you finally put down that pack.

In order to maintain a strong memory, be sure to remain active in a social context. This will help you stay alert and happy. If you’re depressed or lonely, your mind isn’t being stimulated and your brain cells aren’t getting a work out. Memory cells will be strengthened during engaging conversation with other people.

Your library should have a good selection of books on memory improvement that you can borrow. A lot of famous psychiatrists have published important studies about memory and proper brain function. A world of knowledge is available from these resources that you can apply to your personal life.

When you have a good memory, you have both a better control of your life, and a better quality of life. Apply some of these suggestions as often as you can, and you will see a difference.