GULP to Improve Memory

College students often mention that it is difficult to retain the academic content taught in their courses due to the significant amount of information assigned by their instructors. Frequently, students reference their ineffective memorization skills as one of their weaknesses and challenges during studying and exams.

One technique offered by Pepperdine University called GULP, offers a structured way to assist students with improving their memorization abilities.

G stands for “Get It” and involves applying active listening, awareness, and attention to the present.

U signifies “Use It” and pertains to utilizing the information you just learned by replicating the material through, writing, singing, acting, and/or sheer repetition.

L applies to “Link It” and refers to connecting the information with something currently familiar to you at the present time such as a person, place, or thing.

P pertains to “Picture It” and requires you to visualize the concept coming alive and incorporate the five senses, touch, smell, hear, sight, and taste.

The GULP technique allows you to begin to personalize the information you are learning and create an engaging learning environment with material that may seem uninteresting at first.

Students often quote a link to dull or unexciting coursework with the inability to focus and retain the information they are required to learn. GULP introduces a fun strategy for college students to try to enhance their memorization abilities.

Written by Rio Salado Counselor Elena Matus McDonald on behalf of Rio Salado's Counseling Services, helping students with their personal, educational and career goals. Reference: Pepperdine University. (2015)