Mnemonic Systems & Memory Techniques
Train Your Memory
Mnemonic systems are memory techniques that help you remember numbers by converting them into more memorable words, phrases, or images. These systems have been used by memory champions, mental calculators, and students for centuries.
Our tools help you encode numbers into memorable words and decode words back into their numeric values — perfect for practicing these powerful memory techniques. Once you've created your mnemonics, use spaced repetition to lock them into long-term memory with our Leitner Box Scheduler.
Major System
A phonetic mnemonic system that converts numbers into consonant sounds. Create memorable words by adding vowels between the consonants.
- Phonetically based
- Flexible word creation
- Most widely used system
Dominic System
Created by 8-time World Memory Champion Dominic O'Brien. Uses a letter-to-number mapping to create person initials for memorable associations.
- Person-action based
- Great for faces & names
- Used by memory champions
Leitner Box System
A spaced repetition system that optimises your review schedule. Perfect for retaining your mnemonic associations, vocabulary, or any flashcard-based learning.
- Scientifically proven method
- 3, 5 or 7-box systems
- Exportable calendar schedules
What are Mnemonic Systems?
Mnemonic systems are memory techniques that convert abstract information into more memorable forms. Since our brains are naturally better at remembering images, stories, and words than raw numbers, these systems provide a bridge between numerical data and memorable content.
Why Use Mnemonic Systems?
Numbers are difficult to remember because they're abstract and don't naturally create mental images. Consider trying to remember:
- Phone numbers
- PIN codes and passwords
- Historical dates
- Mathematical constants (π, e)
- Product codes and reference numbers
Mnemonic systems transform these forgettable digits into vivid, memorable content. Memory athletes use these techniques to memorize thousands of digits of pi or the order of multiple shuffled decks of cards.
Encoding vs Retention: The Complete Memory Workflow
Effective memorisation requires two stages:
- Encoding — Converting information into a memorable format using techniques like the Major System or Dominic System
- Retention — Reinforcing those memories over time through spaced repetition using systems like the Leitner Box
The mnemonic number systems handle encoding brilliantly, but without regular review, even the most vivid associations fade. That's where spaced repetition comes in — it schedules your reviews at optimal intervals to move information from short-term to long-term memory with minimal effort.
Choosing a System
Both the Major System and Dominic System are effective, but they work differently:
| Feature | Major System | Dominic System |
|---|---|---|
| Basis | Phonetic sounds | Letter associations |
| Flexibility | Many word choices per number | Fixed letter pairs |
| Learning Curve | Moderate | Easier to start |
| Best For | General number memorization | Person-action stories |
Many memory experts recommend learning the Major System first, as it's more versatile and widely used. The Dominic System can be learned later as a complementary technique.
Making It Stick with Spaced Repetition
Once you've created your mnemonic associations, the Leitner Box System helps you retain them efficiently. Instead of cramming or random review, spaced repetition focuses your practice time where it's needed most:
- New or difficult items — reviewed frequently until they stick
- Familiar items — reviewed at increasing intervals
- Mastered items — reviewed occasionally to maintain recall
Our Leitner Box scheduler generates a complete study calendar that you can customise and export to your personal calendar app.
Memory Palace
The Memory Palace technique uses familiar locations to store information along a mental journey. Rather than relying on tools, it works best when built from places you already know well.
Memory Palaces are particularly effective for structured information such as lists, dates, and historical facts, and are often combined with techniques like the Major System or Dominic System.
Learn more about Memory Palaces →
Recommended Learning Path
- Start with the Major System — Learn the phonetic mappings and create a peg list for numbers 00-99
- Practice encoding and decoding — Use our tools to convert between numbers and words until it becomes automatic
- Set up spaced repetition — Create flashcards for your peg words and use the Leitner Box system to schedule reviews
- Create a Mind Palace — Create vivid mnemonic imagary for your encoded word, or langauge vocabulary and place it on a location in your memory palace.
- Expand your toolkit — Learn the Dominic System for person-action stories and combine techniques for longer number sequences