.png)
Know this: a plethora of mnemonic techniques exist, and a sparse vocabulary is one of the easiest problems to overcome on the SAT / ACT.
Today we'll discuss one important and effective technique for memorizing vocabulary: the LOCI method. This method takes a little while to get used to. But once you do, you'll be able to memorize words in a matter of seconds. And you won't have to constantly review and memorize by force.
For example, take the word 'transient.' The word transient means temporary or fleeting.
Let's break up 'transient' into two parts: 'tran' and 'sient'.
Imagine a train - from 'tran' - and a sea - from 'sient.'
Now imagine a train disappearing over the sea. It appears briefly and then disappears - transient.
You don't have to worry if the image isn't an exact representation. (And it usually won't be.) It'll serve as an anchor, drawing the meaning after it. The wackier and more ridiculous the image, the easier it will be to remember it.
Let's take another example: 'quotidian.' The word means ordinary or everyday.
Again, let's divide the word:
Quotidian: 'quote' and 'teddy.'
Imagine a pink teddy bear. It doesn't have to be pink, but the whackier the better. The bear is ensconsed within a pair of quotes. Then imagine a square from a calendar, and put the quotes + bear within the calendar square.
For a better understanding of the LOCI process, watch the following video. It features four-time USA memory-champion, Nelson Dellis, illustrating the LOCI method.
For more tips and methods, or to get help personally tailored to your needs, consider working with me. I've helped people from all over the world get into their dream school. In coaching you, I adopt my methods specifically to your personality, schedule, and learning style. For this reason, studying privately with a skilled coach is the best way to increase your test score.
Happy learning,
Tova