September – Working Memory & Learning: Boost Your Brain This School Year
As students settle into a new school year, one of the most important skills to focus on is working memory—the brain’s ability to temporarily hold and manipulate information while completing tasks. Think of it as your mental “sticky note.” Whether it’s following multi-step directions, solving a math problem, or remembering what you just read, working memory is essential for learning and everyday success.
Research shows that students with stronger working memory skills tend to perform better academically and experience less stress when managing multiple assignments. Fortunately, working memory is not fixed—it can be strengthened through intentional strategies and practice.
EF Focus: Memory Strategies, Active Study Techniques, Note-Taking
This month, we’re exploring techniques to help students strengthen working memory and improve their overall learning:
Memory Strategies: Using methods like chunking information, creating acronyms or mnemonics, and visualizing concepts helps the brain store and retrieve information more effectively. For example, turning a list of historical events into a story or mental image can make remembering dates and details much easier.
Active Study Techniques: Passive studying, like simply reading or highlighting, is less effective. Encourage active learning by summarizing material in your own words, teaching a concept to someone else, or quizzing yourself. These strategies force the brain to actively engage with information, which strengthens retention.
Note-Taking Skills: Organized notes are a powerful tool for memory. Whether through bullet points, color-coded sections, or mind maps, effective note-taking makes it easier to review and recall information later. A good set of notes doesn’t just record facts—it reinforces understanding.
Topic: Boosting Memory to Boost Learning
Working memory impacts much more than academics. It influences organization, problem-solving, emotional regulation, and time management. Students who develop strong working memory skills can better follow instructions, stay focused during long assignments, and juggle multiple tasks without feeling overwhelmed. These benefits extend beyond the classroom, supporting independence, confidence, and lifelong learning.
As the school year begins, now is the perfect time to start practicing and strengthening these skills. Implementing memory strategies, active study techniques, and effective note-taking habits early can create a foundation for more efficient learning, less frustration, and greater academic success.
Working memory is a skill, not just an innate ability. With consistent practice and the right strategies, students of all ages can improve their capacity to retain, organize, and apply information. This September, let’s focus on boosting memory to boost learning—and make this school year the most productive yet.
