Arts >> Books >> Literature

How to Memorize a Book's Key Concepts

The key to memorizing a book's key concepts is to map them out. It's often said that "a picture is worth a thousand words" and vivid imagery leaves a lasting impression that is easier to remember than vague or lukewarm ideas. Going a step further by combining simple visual icons with key words will strongly impress a book's content in your mind making it easier to remember. Your "mind-map" (or "spider map," as this technique is commonly referred to) was developed by Tony Buzan, a British psychologist, author, consultant and international authority on the brain and learning.

Things You'll Need

  • Blank piece of paper (at least 8 inches by 11 inches)
  • Colored pencils or fine-tip markers
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Using a distinctly colored pencil or fine-tipped marker, write down three words that summarize the content of the book in the center of a piece of an 8 inch by 11 inch piece of blank paper and draw a circle around the words in the same color as the text. Include a little visual doodle or icon to help you remember this key concept next to the text within the circle. Please see Resource 1 for an illustration.

    • 2

      Using a different color, draw radiating lines off the center circle like spokes on a wheel and write three key words that describe the major subdivisions or subheadings of the topic. Add small doodles or icons that illustrate these verbal concepts. Again, see Resource 1 for illustration.

    • 3

      Choose a third color and draw lines radiating away from the main subheadings that describe further subheadings with three key words. Include visual icons to aid your memory.

    • 4

      Choose a fourth color and draw subsequent lines under the secondary subheadings that describe individual facts and ideas and label them. Include a small doodle or icon to describe the idea.

    • 5

      Study and meditate on your mind-map until the basic concepts and associated facts of the book you wish to memorize are firmly implanted in your mind.

+:
+:

Literature

Related Categories