Memory aids

Leave an item in an unexpected location before sleeping to prompt recollection of a pending task upon waking.

The unusual placement prompts curiosity about why the object is there, which triggers memory of the required action.

8 people, independently

Turn over one corner of your duvet as a visual reminder to complete pending tasks when you return to your room.

The act of turning it back prompts memory of what needs to be done.

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Wear your watch on the opposite arm until you complete a specific task.

The awkward feeling serves as a reminder of what you need to do.

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Place an object on the floor where the door swings inward to create a noise alert when opened.

The rustling sound alerts you even if you do not consciously register the item.

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Tap out digits on thin air using your fingers as if using a keypad to help remember numbers.

This physical action makes recalling the number about twice as likely.

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Tug on a door handle after locking it to confirm it is secure and help remember the action.

Checking ensures it is locked and aids memory because you verified it.

2 people, independently

When you misplace an item, visualize it exploding and track where the 'shrapnel' lands to help recall where you left it.

It engages your imagination and helps you be more present.

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Look at picture albums regularly to prompt recall of past trips and events.

Pictures serve as prompts for memories that might otherwise fade.

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Make verbal confirmations slightly unique by adding specific details from the moment (e.g., noting a squirrel outside) to distinguish the current instance from past ones.

It prevents confusion about whether the action was performed today or on a different day.

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When meeting someone, focus on their eye color to snap out of autopilot and increase awareness for name recall.

It forces you to 'wake up' from autopilot and increases awareness.

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Link a thought you want to remember to a specific action you will definitely perform the next morning, such as brushing your teeth.

The connection triggers the idea when you perform the linked action.

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Point at and verbally announce the action you are doing, similar to how Japanese rail workers ensure safety checks are performed.

It helps ensure safety checks are done properly and contributes to a spotless safety record.

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Duct tape the item you need to remember to your hand.

One person reported this ensures they definitely cannot forget it.

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Use the 'Last Touch' rule: physically touch every essential item before leaving the house.

Getting thrown off routine or distracted usually leads to forgetting something.

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Recap conversations and learned information to yourself multiple times a day to improve recall.

Recapping leads to better recall.

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Connect each item on a list to the next using funny, disgusting, or extravagant imagery to ensure you never forget it.

Extravagant imagery makes the list memorable.

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Leave important items in the car the evening before to avoid relying on morning memory.

Morning autopilot handles routine tasks like showering and driving but cannot be trusted for other responsibilities.

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Focus intensely on a unique visual detail in your environment while performing a task like locking a door.

Paying close attention to a specific detail creates a stronger memory anchor.

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• Focus on a specific ambient noise or sensory detail at the exact moment you perform a task to attach the memory to that context.1

If you struggle with forgetfulness or inattentive ADHD, create a routine of touching your pockets to verify essential items are present every time you leave.

3 people, independently

Point at items while looking at them to reinforce memory of their location or status, particularly if speaking out loud is inappropriate.

Pointing and calling is an extremely powerful technique.

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Use the scheduled messaging feature in your default texting app to send reminders to yourself.

3 people, independently

Place a bowl in your bedroom to dump all pocket contents into when undressing.

It prevents losing things and stops items from going through the washer and dryer.

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Place your phone next to an important item you need to bring before going out.

To avoid picking up your phone and forgetting the important thing.

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When sleeping in unfamiliar places, place irreplaceable items like keys, wallet, phone, and money inside your shoes.

This prevents you from forgetting them when you leave.

• Some find this uncomfortable.
• It may cause your phone to smell like feet.

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• Use shoes as the anchor object; place forgotten items inside the shoes you plan to wear next.3

Place items you must take with you in the morning into your vehicle before going to sleep.

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Point at, glare at, and command an object to 'stay right there' or simply tell it to 'stay' when placing it down.

The item is usually still there when you look for it again.

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Clip a binder clip onto your keychain to secure essential documents or notes you need to carry.

This stops you from leaving behind printed materials or reminders.

• Papers may dangle uncomfortably by your knees when starting the car.
• You might lose both keys and papers together.

3 people, independently

• Attach your keys directly to the item you need to remember using a keyring or clip.4

Attach your car keys to your wallet with a rubber band.

It ensures you cannot leave the house without taking both items.

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Hang security IDs or lanyards together with your keys.

You will always know where they are and won't forget them when leaving.

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Place items you must not forget on top of the clothes you plan to wear the next day.

You cannot get dressed without moving the item, ensuring you notice it.

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Mentally recite a list of essential items (e.g., wallet, phone, keys) and acknowledge each one, noting if an item is absent.

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• Use a mnemonic phrase or rhyme, such as 'spectacles, testicles, wallet, and watch', to remind yourself to check for glasses, keys, wallet, and phone.12

Rest items between your windshield wiper and windshield on the driver's side so you won't miss them.

Definitely won't miss it.

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Say the phrase 'Summer, where are my balls?' to yourself as a mnemonic when looking for keys.

One person reported this literally saved them many times.

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Carry a small plastic bag for loose items like earbuds and phones to prevent forgetting them.

It holds small items securely so you do not forget them.

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Apply 'Mise en place' principles: give every item a specific, permanent home.

Consistency helps you find things even when disoriented.

2 people, independently

Keep keys and other essentials in a dedicated bowl near the door or on your desk to ensure they are always in the same place.

3 people, independently

Use a dedicated container, such as a repurposed cosmetic case, as a hold-all for daily miscellaneous items.

Taking time to empty and pack this container avoids scrambling or forgetting items when heading out.

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Hang a bag containing necessary items from the door handle to ensure you remember them.

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