Memorization

This is a post based on a question.

I'm going to sixth grade and I still haven't memorized my multiplication tables. Help me?

This is more of a series of helpful hints than an actual lesson.
While the vast majority (and most exciting parts) of math involves critical thinking, problem solving, and multi-step processes, there are certain parts that just require some simple memorization. For example, once you have the concept of what multiplication actually is, it is immensely helpful (perhaps even necessary) to simply memorize multiplication tables for all combinations of numbers 0-12. Likewise, in Calculus it can greatly improve your test-taking speed by just memorizing certain basic derivatives and antiderivatives.

Before I go any further, I must make an extremely important point: the goal of memorization is not to substitute for understanding, but to increase mental speed. That is, you should know what I mean when I ask what 4x6 is, and not just know the answer. You must first deeply understand the concepts before memorizing the numbers.

I have a few tried-and-true methods for memorizing simple facts, such as times tables and derivatives. It is best to try all of them and see which works best for you. Everyone's mind works differently and there are numerous learning styles to take into account when selecting a method.

Method 1: Flash Cards

They don't have to be big and fancy and colorful (though they can be if you prefer that). A few cut-up pieces of notebook paper or printer paper written on with a pen will work just fine.

On one side, write the question. On the other side, write the answer. Whenever you have time (in the car, between classes, at the dinner table), whip them out and have the nearest person quiz you, or just go through them yourself. If you are by yourself, though, DON'T CHEAT! You won't do yourself any good if you don't seriously think and TRY to answer the question before glancing at the answer.

Here are what some may look like:

Method 2: Games

There are many video games, board games, and online gaming websites that cater to those who prefer a more visual and/or hands-on approach to learning.

Here are some examples of online game websites:

Coolmath4kids.com

Coolmath-games.com

Mathplayground.com

Funbrain.com

Method 3: Speech

Look at yourself in a nice-sized mirror (as in, not a makeup compact). Say aloud a fact that you need to know (for example, "twelve times four equals forty-eight"). Watch your mouth form the words and listen to your voice saying them. Go through all of the facts you need to know, then start over and repeat them all until you find yourself already knowing what you are about to say (like, you have it memorized :) ). This works best for auditory and some visual learners.

Method 4: Mad Minutes

While these are not usually the best way to begin memorizing a new concept, they are the absolute best way to test your learning. Once you feel that you have sufficiently memorized your desired concepts, try doing a mad minute. In case you don't know what that is, here are two examples of mad minute worksheets:

Give yourself exactly a minute to fill it out (or two minutes, or five minutes, depending on the number of questions and on your ability level). If it takes you more than a second (literally, 1 second) to think of the answer, skip it and move on. Once you have finished, circle the problems that you got wrong and those that you weren't able to answer quickly enough. Go back to flash cards, games, and speech to review those specific questions. Once you get a specific question right a few times in a row, you know you have it down.

The best part about all of these is that they are relatively cheap or free! Anyone can use them! So get memorizing!