Ask any student about the most stressful period they could face memory and the answer almost inevitably is the period surrounding an exam, or an important test, where there is a lot riding on the outcome of test scores. The Exam Stress Survey initiated by Child Line involved about thirteen hundred students. The results were an eye-opener as to the pressures students face.

An overwhelming ninety-six percent reported experiencing test-related stress. The majority (sixty-three percent), said that this anxiety was caused by fears of not being accepted into higher academic institutions.

In helping students cope with these concerning issues, parents often look for study methods and test preparation techniques to support their student. Techniques such as goal setting, time management, and revising course material are often the most common recommendations.  Yes, engaging an experienced tutor for SAT Tutoring in London is an excellent idea. There are other areas that can be overlooked and a tutor may be able to help here. One such area is memory and the ability to recall information.

Tips to help students boost memory

The human brain is a marvel. In addition to performing an astounding number of functions, the brain has the ability to improve memory through neuroplasticity, or by developing new memory networks. Students can use this neuroplasticity in their learning and test preparation.

Memory should be looked at in terms of the manner in which information is organised by the brain. The brain builds on memory in a similar way that a bricklayer would use to lay the foundation of a building – one brick at a time. This is why cramming in information just before a test is never a good idea because assimilating information this way does not work effectively for the brain.

For better memory recall, it is best for study sessions to be undertaken over a period of time, with frequent sessions on a regular basis.

 Neural pathways are encouraged by:

• Wordplay games, brain games, number puzzles. Games played on an electronic device will work as well.
• The use of association (visual clues) to recall facts.
• Use grouping of items for better memory recall, or the use of mnemonic strategies.
• Track progress through practice tests.
• Rhymes and rhythms.
• The use of storytelling

Other useful tips to remember are:

• Eat a healthy balanced diet with Omega-3-rich food sources.
• Exercise to stimulate blood and oxygen flow to the brain.
• Ensure a quality night’s rest that is necessary for consolidation of memory.

What does not help improve memory?

In addition to knowing what to do to boost memory, is avoiding those things that work against memory recall. These include:

• Cramming course content the night before.
• Not hydrating adequately.
• Relying on stimulants like caffeine to keep awake. This only works for the short term!
• Doing too many things at the same time. The brain is distracted by too many activities and the ability to focus and concentrate is affected.

Do you need a more confident student to sit the SAT? We can help. A-List Education is a reputable tutoring company with highly skilled tutors to help students successfully navigate the world of SAT testing.