One of the keys to memorization is repetition. As such, visual learners will need to see the information over and over to soak it into their brains. One of the better methods of visual memorization utilizes flash cards. For instance, if you are memorizing new words for your foreign language class, write each new word on the front side of an index card. Write the English translation on the opposite side.
Start by flipping through the cards one at a time with the foreign word face-up. Say the foreign word out loud, followed by the English translation. Flip the card if you need to check yourself. Go through your stack several times. When you feel comfortable, go through the stack with the English translations face-up. Say the English translation out loud, followed by the foreign word.
This method links together the visual appearance of the foreign word with its English translation. When you see the foreign word on the test, you will immediately think of the English translation, and vice versa. Other visual techniques include writing the information over and over on a sheet of paper or finding visual patterns in a list of numbers.
Auditory individuals learn best with their ears. As such, auditory learners should hear the information over and over to achieve memorization. This technique is used commonly by actors, who repeat their lines several times a day to commit them to memory. You can also make a song out of the information you need to memorize by setting the words to a common melody.
Another method is to record yourself reciting the information into a tape recorder. Play back the recording several times a day to let your ears do their work. While reading the information aloud can also work, a large section of your brain is focused on speaking, rather than simply listening and memorizing.
These techniques revolve around manipulating the information into a more easily memorized story or acronym. For instance, many students that need to memorize the order of mathematical operations recite, "Please excuse my dear Aunt Sally." The first letters of each word (PEMDAS) correspond to the first letters of the mathematical operations: parentheses, exponents, multiplication, division, addition and subtraction.
Another method is called "linking." Literary types will benefit the most from this form of memorization. The Link Method takes characteristics from listed words and organizes them into an interesting story. For instance, let's say you need to memorize the planets in order: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune.
Create a simple story in which each new component includes some part of each planet. For example: A chef inserted a thermometer filled with Mercury into his freshly cooked bread. Strangely, a Venus fly trap exploded out of the concoction while chewing on an Earthworm. The chef munched on a Mars candy bar while studying the strange sight, but the chocolate made him feel much Stupider. He tried to put his wedding Ring on his toe and Ran Us out of town, singing a merry Tune all the while.
The sillier the story, the easier it will be to memorize. Include places and people that are special to you to personalize the story and make it easier to remember.