8. Use memory pegs to remember long lists
The peg system is a more complex mnemonic device, but if you can master it, it can become a serious weapon in your memory arsenal. It consists of pre-memorizing a system that you can easily reference. Basically, you create a pre-set system (that never changes) that lets you reference connections and segment the information you need in a an easily memorable, unchanging, and rigidly organized list with vivid imagery to complete the puzzle. One very common pegging method is using words that rhyme with numbers. Sounds confusing, right? Check out this example…
How it can work for you: You can start a pegging system using rhymes, like this: 1=fun, 2=glue, 3=free, 4=door, and so on. This is your master list. When needed, you associate the words or items you want to remember with those pegs. If you are packing for a trip and need to remember to bring underwear, a toothbrush, a razor, and your bathing suit, you’d work them into your system.
Underwear: taking off your underwear often leads to FUN
Toothbrush: if you brushed your teeth with GLUE, you’d have some serious issues
Razor: razors aren’t FREE, in fact, yours cost over $200
Bathing suit: when it’s all wet, you hang your bathing suit on the DOOR.
This takes time and effort, obviously, because you’ll need to memorize a list (like the rhyming one above) first. But once you do that, you’ll be able to slot in whatever you need with relative ease. It may sound ridiculous, but it works for some people.