The Memory Palace Protocol
Can you master your memory using the Method of loci?
Status
Type
Closing Date
Memory Palaces, or the Method of loci, has been used for over 2,000 years, famously employed by Cicero and modern memory champions alike. It's based on spatial memory, leveraging familiar locations to store and retrieve information. Despite its track record, it's rarely used by everyday learners who rely more on repetition and passive review. This Lab tests whether the technique provides a measurable edge in a 7-day recall challenge.
How it works
Pre-assessment
Participants review 20 words for 15 minutes and then recall the list in order from memory. This provides a baseline assessment. Participants are then placed into one of two study groups:
If your birth month is January–June = Group 1
If your birth month is July–December = Group 2
Group 1 (control)
Days 1–6: Review and memorise the list using standard methods such as re-reading, writing out or simple repetition (no memory palace)
Day 7: Re-test your recall of the list using the same method as the pre-assessment.
Group 2 (memory palace)
Days 1–6: Follow the guidance on how to build a Memory Palace and practice recalling the list daily.
Day 7: Re-test your recall of the list using the same method as the pre-assessment.
Who Can Join?
We want to make sure this experiment is fair for everyone. Please check the following:
Age 16+: Participants must be at least 16 years old.
Basic Digital Skills: You should be comfortable using web forms to submit your test results.
New to Memory Palaces: This experiment is designed for those who haven't used the Memory Palace or Method of loci techniques before.
Please don't join if:
You're an experienced memory competitor or have substantial prior experience using Memory Palaces or similar advanced memory techniques.
Important Things to Know
Your comfort and privacy are important to us:
Minimal Effort: Tasks are brief (only 15 minutes daily) and entirely voluntary.
Your Privacy Matters: All data collected is anonymised to protect your identity.
You're in Control: You can opt-out of the experiment at any time, no questions asked.