How to improve the retention and recall of information?

1. Connect the learnt material to prior knowledge: When learning something new, most people benefit from making connections to prior knowledge. For example, if you're learning a foreign language, you might make associations between similar words in the two languages. 2. Use different study strategies: Different approaches to studying improve understanding, retention, and recall of information. Studying the same material in different ways can drastically improve outcomes. Try making flashcards, summarizing the material in writing, or discussing the material with someone else. 3. Formulate questions: Generating questions about the material encourages active processing and retention, rather than passive acceptance of the material. Asking questions also gives you a better idea of the material's depth and scope. 4. Apply the information: Applying the learnt material is the orientation of the learning to a task. Preparing for a test by performing multiple runs of practice tests helps to ensure that the material is well retained. 5. Minimize distractions: When studying or attempting to learn something new, reduce or eliminate any other distracting tasks, like browsing the internet, watching television, or scrolling through social media.