mnemonic
1 of 2noun/ni.ˈmɑ.nɪk/
Forms:mnemonics
1
a memory aid or technique that helps individuals recall information more easily by associating it with familiar patterns or cues
A mnemonic is a memory aid or technique used to help remember information more easily. It often involves creating a pattern, phrase, or acronym that simplifies the material being learned. Mnemonics work by associating difficult-to-remember information with something simpler or more familiar, making it easier to recall. For example, using a phrase like "My Very Educated Mother Just Served Us Nachos" helps remember the order of the planets in the solar system. Mnemonics are commonly used in education, especially for memorizing lists, formulas, or steps in a process.
- She relied on a mnemonic to remember the colors of the rainbow: "Roy G. Biv" stood for red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet.
- The musician used a mnemonic to remember the order of sharps in music: "Father Charles Goes Down And Ends Battle."
- Mnemonics can be particularly helpful for learning vocabulary in a new language; for example, "HOMES" can help remember the names of the Great Lakes: Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, Superior.
- Students often create their own mnemonics to remember mathematical formulas or equations, such as "SOHCAHTOA" for trigonometry.
- The trainer shared mnemonics with the team to help them remember important safety procedures during emergencies.