In 1971 the psychologist Allan Paivio described dual coding: the mind keeps words and images in two connected systems. A word that brings a picture to mind, like apple, can be found by either path. Abstract words, like justice, usually have only the word path, and they are harder to remember.
Key idea
Sketch it, label it, and explain it. The picture and the words each give you a way back.
- Draw the structure: boxes, arrows, a simple scene.
- One label per part. Skip decoration.
- Cover the words and explain the picture; then redraw the picture from the words.
- Keep the sketch: it is a second path back to the memory.
Worked example: Worked example
Which note helps more for the parts of a plant?
- A: a list of the parts with definitions.
- B: a quick sketch of a plant with roots, stem, leaf and flower labeled, plus one line on what each does.
- B gives both a picture and words.
Answer: B, the labeled sketch.
Common mistake
Thinking you must draw well. Stick figures and boxes are enough; the point is the link between picture and words.