📚 Proven Learning Techniques

Mnemonics are memory aids that connect new information with imaginative metaphors, vivid examples, stories, visuals, etc. For example, associating the russian word мост [most] (bridge) with a phrase like "The bridge is the most important part of a road" helps cement it in memory. The association must be meaningful to you personally and connect to some previous knowledge. This video gives a clear explanation of mnemonic techniques: Khan Academy "Encoding strategies"

Cognates are words that share a common origin and similar form across languages, like информация (information). Recognizing these speeds up vocabulary acquisition.

Learning grammar and vocabulary through recurring patterns helps you generalize rules quickly. For example, noticing verb endings that repeat in present tense makes new verbs easier to use.

Spaced repetition is the practice of reviewing material at increasing intervals to strengthen long-term retention. It’s especially effective when learning vocabulary.

Learning in context, such as during an activity or conversation — helps cement meaning and usage. Real-world interaction provides emotional and situational anchors for new words.

Engaging multiple senses (sight, hearing, movement) helps reinforce language learning. For example, pairing sounds with visuals or gestures strengthens memory and understanding.

📚 References

  1. Hill, A. C. (2022). The Effectiveness of Mnemonic Devices for ESL Vocabulary Retention.
    https://www.researchgate.net/publication/359293908
    Demonstrates that mnemonic techniques significantly improve vocabulary retention among adult ESL learners in university settings.
  2. TaalHammer (2024). Spaced Repetition System (SRS) and the Forgetting Curve.
    https://www.taalhammer.com/spaced-repetition-in-language-learning
    Explains the science behind spaced repetition and its application in adult language learning, based on Ebbinghaus' forgetting curve.
  3. PhoniTale (2025). Phonologically Grounded Mnemonic Generation for Typologically Distant Language Pairs.
    https://arxiv.org/abs/2507.05444
    Introduces AI-based phonological mnemonics tailored for adult second-language learners, particularly useful for English–Russian learning pairs.