Elaboration and Deep Processing
Ask why it is true, what it resembles, where you would use it.
Why it works
Memory is a network: the more connections to what you already know, the more retrieval paths exist. Processing meaning retains better than processing form.
How to practise
- 1Read the passage once and close the material.
- 2Answer three questions: why is this true? what does it resemble? where would I use it?
- 3Write the answer in your own words, in one sentence.
- 4Link the idea to a concrete personal example.
6 min of practice
Most common mistake
Highlighting text and calling it studying — highlighting processes form, not meaning.
What the evidence shows
Elaborative “why” questions increase retention compared with rereading, in both lab and classroom studies.
Apply it to your day
Use it for conceptual content: rules, theory, work processes.