When it comes to the amount of information the brain can remember, the answer is both surprising and encouraging. While it may seem like a lot of information is lost after a cram session, research has shown that the brain can actually remember quite a lot of information for up to 18 to 36 hours.
Terry Doyle and Todd Zakrajsek, authors of The New Science of Learning, explain that a person can remember quite a lot post-cram-sesh, for about 18 to 36 hours. This means that if you are cramming for an exam, you can expect to remember the material for up to a day and a half after you’ve finished studying.
This is encouraging news for those who are cramming for exams or studying for a test. It means that if you put in the effort to study and memorize the material, you can expect to remember it for a day and a half after you’ve finished.
However, the research also shows that within a week’s worth of time, about 75% of that material will be lost. This means that if you are studying for a test that is a week away, you should plan to review the material again a few days before the test.
So, how can you make sure that you remember the material for the long-term? The key is to review the material multiple times and to practice using it. By reviewing the material multiple times, you are reinforcing the information in your brain and making it easier to recall.
Practicing using the material is also important. For example, if you are studying for a math test, you should practice solving the equations and problems. This will help you to better understand the material and make it easier to recall when it comes time for the test.
In addition to reviewing and practicing the material, you should also make sure to get plenty of rest and eat a healthy diet. Studies have shown that sleep and nutrition are important for memory and learning.
Finally, it is important to remember that everyone learns differently. Some people may find that they remember material better if they study for shorter periods of time, while others may find that they need to study for longer periods of time. Experiment with different study techniques to find out what works best for you.
Overall, research has shown that the brain can remember quite a lot of information for up to 18 to 36 hours after a cram session. However, within a week’s worth of time, about 75% of that material will be lost. To make sure that you remember the material for the long-term, it is important to review the material multiple times, practice using it, get plenty of rest, and eat a healthy diet. Everyone learns differently, so experiment with different study techniques to find out what works best for you.
