Substitution
Short Answer
Replace an unfamiliar word or idea with a familiar image or sound cue, then link that cue to the meaning you actually want to remember.
A Simple Substitution Recipe
- Pick a familiar cue that sounds like the target word or resembles it.
- Make the cue visual and concrete.
- Link the cue to the real meaning with an action scene.
- Test recall after a short delay (not immediately).
Common Mistakes
- Choosing a cue that’s also unfamiliar (defeats the purpose).
- Forgetting to link cue → meaning (you only remember the cue).
- Using weak, non-sensory cues (hard to retrieve).