Editing Memory augmentation (section)

== Memory improvement strategies ==
There are four different strategies many individuals use to improve and augment their long-term memories, which are:

1.    [[Nootropic]]s: substances which can be consumed in an attempt to enhance [[encoding (memory)|memory encoding]] as well as retrieval. Nootropics are typically prescription medications such as Ritalin and Adderall which are used to treat various disorders such as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Any type of substance which includes any form of psychoactive compounds can also be considered a nootropic. For example, the compounds found in energy drinks such as caffeine and taurine have also been shown to improve cognitive functioning, and in turn, improve memory.<ref name=":3">{{Cite journal|last=Madan|first=Christopher R.|date=2014|title=Augmented memory: a survey of the approaches to remembering more|journal=Frontiers in Systems Neuroscience|language=English|volume=8|page=30|doi=10.3389/fnsys.2014.00030|pmid=24624063|pmc=3939671|issn=1662-5137|doi-access=free}}</ref>

2.    [[Transcranial magnetic stimulation|Brain stimulation]]: transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can be used to stimulate certain brain regions associated with memory in a non-invasive way. This causes those areas to be more activated than other areas of the brain when an individual is trying to remember something. This, however, requires special equipment only accessible in a laboratory and therefore cannot be used at home.<ref name=":3" />

3.    Mnemonics: commonly used memory techniques which involve strategies such as repetition, creating memorable phrases or words with the first letter of every word one wants to remember, using visual imagery, or creating a story involving the things which are necessary to remember.<ref name=":3" />

4.    External aids: memory technique that involves writing down what one wants to remember. Making lists and reminders to ourselves often can be beneficial in enhancing our abilities to remember more items for longer periods of time.<ref name=":3" />