Formula recollection through a NEVER BEFORE SEEN mnemonic technique

ORAL

Abstract

While in the Army, Mr. Schunicht was involved in a mid- air collision rendering him unconscious for 3 weeks. Everything had to be re-learned, as nursing actions were reported as having been displayed upon awakening from the extended unconsciousness (19 days). Studies in recovery brought about some pragmatic discoveries to compensate for the residual memory deficits. The most valuable was having each vowel represent a mathematical operation, i.e. ``a'' multiplication implying ``@'',``o'' for division implying ``over'', ``i'' for subtraction implying ``minus'', ``u'' for addition implying ``plus'', and ``e'' implying ``equals''. Most constants and variables are indeed consonants, e.g. ``c'' = ``speed of light'' \& ``z'' = ``altitude''. Note, how with this author's mnemonic technique, ANY FORMULA may be algebraically manipulated into a word, or series of words for ease of recollection. Additional letters may be added to the enhance the letter combination's intelligibility, but these additional letters need be consonants only! The transition of complicated formulas into simple acronyms will be shown, as well as those submitted by attendees upon arrival. One common example is the quadratic equation: CAPITAL LETTERS ARE ADDITIONAL CONSONANTS yeS, i buiLD rabbits 4caTS oN 2HaTS (remember Dr. Seuss?) The possibilities of mnemonic technique are limitless as Delta X $=>$ 0. With the student's usage, an acronym will become more apropos to the actual formula it actually represents!

Authors

  • Shannon Schunicht

    Texas A\&M University