Mnemonics

A mnemonic device is a learning aid, strategy, or device that enhances recall. Often times, mnemonic devices can help with studying, remembering a list, or specific information. For example, many children learn their ABC's through a mnemonic device, such as singing. The reason why mnemonics are used is because they help us remember memories in a way that makes them easier to recall. Frequently people use virtual recall boosters such create lists, writing appointments on a calender or portable computer to help us remember things. Mnemonic devices work so well because they are based on internal mental strategies, mainly strategies we use during encoding that help us later retrieve useful information. In school, we use mnemonic devices more than that catches the eye. Mnemonic devices could be the proper order of mathematical operation, rhymes for the months of the year, ROYGBIV-for the rainbow, and every good boy does fine ( EGBDF) for the treble clef. We can use mnemonic devices for just about everything. The names of the planets, elements on the periodic table, and the bones in your body are all ways you could use mnemonic devices to help yourself memorize and recall the information needed. Because of these mental shortcuts, we are able to recall information that we have already learned and discussed.

Here are an example of 9 different types of mnemonics-
http://www.learningassistance.com/2006/january/mnemonics.html

examples of a mnemonic
http://www.fun-with-words.com/mnem_example.html