Why don’t we remember more of what we read?

Posted on July 15th, 2025

Most of us, myself included, reach the end of a chapter and either move on immediately or close the book for the night. Our brains, meanwhile, quickly forget most of what we’ve just read. That’s because reading is input – while memory is built through output.

If you want to remember what you read, try the “3R” rule:

  • Read a section

  • Pause and recite the key ideas (aloud or written down)

  • Review and check what you missed

This simple loop turns passive input into active retrieval – you’ll remember much more, in less time.

Simple experiment: the one-line recall

After your next learning session, write a simple sentence that captures the key idea. Document all of these sentences for continual review over the coming weeks to refresh and reaffirm what you have learned.


Lab News

The Memory Palace Protocol – Can learners significantly improve their memory recall using the Memory Palace technique for 15 minutes per day compared to their normal memorisation approach?

Coming soon: Global Learning Survey 2025 – Have your say on the state of learning and education around the world.


Signal Boost

Research, thoughts and ideas from around the web.

Ask the Cognitive Scientist – an excellent Q&A from professor of cognitive psychology, Daniel T. Willingham.

Control Your Vagus Nerve to Improve Mood, Alertness & Neuroplasticity – A solo podcast episode from Dr Andrew Huberman.

GreaseMilkyway – Konrad Kollnig’s app, now in beta, is an accessibility-focused Android tool designed for individuals with ADHD and related attention conditions. (Android only)


Brain Food

“In times of change, learners inherit the Earth, while the learned find themselves beautifully equipped to deal with a world that no longer exists.”

Eric Hoffer

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Until next time,

Jamie.