What is one effective strategy for long-term retention of information?

Elaboration is a powerful strategy for long-term retention of information because it involves deep processing of the material. By actively connecting new information to prior knowledge, individuals create a more meaningful understanding of the content. This process can include explaining concepts in one’s own words, relating them to personal experiences, or applying them to different contexts. Such connections not only help in memorizing facts but also facilitate retrieval of that information later on, as the brain has multiple pathways to access the stored knowledge.

In contrast, rote repetition focuses on memorizing information without meaningful engagement, which may lead to quick forgetting once the repetition stops. Ignoring the information fails to engage it in any meaningful way, making it far less likely to be retained. Visual distraction diverts attention away from the material, hindering the ability to process and remember it effectively. Thus, elaboration stands out as a fundamentally effective approach for establishing and enhancing long-term memory.