The Power of Narrative

The oft repeated advice is that the key to memory is vivid visualization and using all the senses. Yet, in a recent interview, memory athlete and neuroscientist Boris Konrad reported that—based on his scientific investigations into memory—visualization wasn’t actually that important. Some of the best memorizers “actually have more narrative or even logical ‘images’ rather than pretty visual ones.” I think I understand his conclusion much better now.

Read more

2015 USA Memory Championship Recap

I’m finally home after two days in New York City for my second USA Memory Championship. I didn’t win, but it was another stellar experience overall. The highlights: Nelson Dellis defended his title, bringing him even with Scott Hagwood for most USAMC victories (four). Records were broken in all four morning events. And here’s a snapshot of the results page. Alright, let’s get into it!

Read more