How To Memorise Names And Questions Visually

Ever try to memorise someone’s name or a short list and feel your mind has permanently misplaced it? If so, you’re not alone. In this episode, I shared a big question from the community: “How do I memorise names and lists without getting them jumbled in my head?” It all starts with a simple technique and a few quick tips.

We covered why rote learning often fails us, especially if you’re neurodiverse, and how small changes in approach can sharpen recall. Imagine having an easy method for remembering the people you meet and the tasks you need to do. It’s all about breaking things down, visualising them, and making them memorable.

Why Memory Tricks Matter

Start by giving yourself permission to drop the frustration. If you’ve always struggled with remembering one thing after another, you’re not broken. Our brains are wired to latch onto items that spark interest and emotion. If something feels bland, it’s easily forgotten.

The trick is to inject meaning into each name or list item. Rather than just hearing “Dave” and hoping it sticks, picture Dave doing something silly or heroic. That way, your mind has an image to cling to.

The Simple Technique

This episode introduced a straightforward memory aid. It’s not magic, but it’s super helpful when dealing with names or short lists. The process goes like this:

• Focus your attention on the person’s name or the first list item.
• Pause for a moment and mentally repeat it to yourself.
• Connect the name or item to a visual image—something that stands out.
• Slot it into a short story or sequence in your mind, linking each element.

By creating a mini “journey” in your head, you’re more likely to retrieve everything later.

“When I visualise the list, it’s not just words anymore. It’s a story I can replay.”

Common Memory Pitfalls

One big pitfall is trying to cram everything in at once. If you bombard your brain with too many details, nothing sticks. Another misstep is ignoring your learning style. Some of us do better writing stuff down, others do well with strong images. You might need to say the name out loud to lock it in. Experiment and see what fits.

There’s also a tendency to panic when we forget a name—or a point from a list. That anxiety can make recall even harder. Instead, take a breath. Reassure yourself you have a method to follow. When you relax, your mind is better at retrieving information.

Practical Tips to Try Today

If you need concrete approaches for day-to-day memorising, here are some suggestions:

1. Use Pre-Meeting Prep: Before you head into a meeting, review the names or items you expect to cover.
2. Repeat and Recall: Check in with yourself regularly. Ask, “What was that name again?” and let your memory do its thing.
3. Hook Names to Places: If you met someone at a café, picture them standing near the counter, or sipping the latte you remember them ordering.
4. Build an Internal Story: With short lists, turn each item into a vivid element in a sequence. The sillier or more bizarre the better.

Final Takeaways

• Visual links help embed names or list items in your memory.
• Breaking a list down and attaching it to a mini storyline boosts recall.
• Overloading your brain rarely pays off—keep it simple and spaced out.
• Relax and trust the process when you draw a blank.

Give these ideas a go. Notice how small tweaks in your thinking can spark big changes in your memory game. Want more detail, or just need a cheering section from someone who’s tried it? Then make sure to check out the full episode at the top of this page. In it, we talk through these tips in real time—and share a few funny stories along the way.

Happy memorising!