Mnemonics (pronounced "ne-mon'-ics") is the art of assisting the memory by using a system of artificial aids - rhymes, rules, phrases, diagrams, acronyms and other devices - all to help in the recall of names, dates, facts and figures.

The mnemonics on this site provide both a quick-reference source for people seeking information or help with specific subjects, and a library of assistance for anyone (teachers especially) seeking information about mnemonics in general. It also tries to include a wider explanation for each subject mnemonic, detailing its use and purpose. The webmasters are always happy to hear from anyone wishing to add a further mnemonic whether it's old, entirely new or just an alternative variation of one already listed.

First invented by the Greeks for memory-training 2500 years ago (Simonides the Younger invented the first known system in 477 BC), many modern examples of mnemonics are in everyday popular use, from phrases like "Richard Of York Gave Battle In Vain" to "Spring forward, fall back". Other lesser-known examples (both modern and ancient) such as "BROM 4689" or "LATCH" are used as history-aids in teaching or circulated as practical industry standards among small working groups only.

The word "mnemonics" comes from the Greek mneme ("memory") and mnemon ("mindful"), and the Greek goddess of Memory and mother of the Muses, was Mnemosyne (pronounced "ne-mos'-i-ni").

So whether you're searching for a particular study-aid, checking for information or just looking for something to amuse, try among the (approx) 120 subject titles listed - you never know what might just be useful to remember!


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