Mnemonics

OphthoEmissary
Anonymous

You need to retain vast amounts of information when preparing for your ophthalmology exams, which can make it challenging to recall everything you need when you need it. One effective tool that has helped many throughout their medical education is the use of mnemonics - or "memory shortcuts".

What Are Mnemonics?
Mnemonics are memory aids that help us remember information through association, visualization, and structured patterns. They can take many forms, including those listed below:
  • Rhyme Mnemonics: Using rhyming phrases or songs to help remember information 
  • Chunking Mnemonics: Breaking down large pieces of information into smaller, more manageable chunks
  • Method of Loci: Associating information with specific physical locations in a familiar place
  • Peg System: Associating numbers with specific words or images
  • Keyword Mnemonics: Using a familiar word or image that sounds similar to the new word or concept to be remembered
  • Image Mnemonics: Creating visual images to represent information
  • Story Mnemonics: Making up a narrative or story that links together the information and elements to be remembered
  • Music Mnemonics: Setting information to a tune or rhythm
Engaging Multiple Senses
  • Multi-sensory Learning: Incorporating visual, auditory, and kinesthetic elements into mnemonics engages multiple senses, reinforcing memory. Creating flashcards with visual mnemonics or listening to rhyming mnemonics can cater to different learning styles.
Here are some mnemonics mentioned in the OphthoQuestions comment threads over the years: 
  • 13 is an “unlucky number” and retinoblastoma is an unlucky disease, which occurs as a result of a mutation in the RB1 tumor suppressor gene located on chromosome 13
  • Neurofibromatosis 1 was formerly known as Von Recklinghausen Disease.  "Von Recklinghausen '' has 17 letters and is associated with the NF1 gene on chromosome 17
  • Neurofibromatosis 2 is associated with the NF2 gene on Chromosome 22 (Remember your two’s!)
  • It is a FACt that these are septate fungi....Fusarium, Aspergillus, Curvularia” 
  • Fungi become Non-Septate when their cells get RAMmed together...
    • Rhizopus
    • Absidia
    • Mucor

Do you have any favorite mnemonics or tips for using them in ophthalmology? 
Share them in the comments below!

#1 • 07/24/2024 at 10:33 PM
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