If you are studying history and reading about Columbus, imagine what the world looked like at that time and how the people lived. Complete your mental picture with color, details and even motion. Imagine that your brain is like a video camera capturing an image. Organize what you wish to remember . Organize information into groups or categories which have some personal meaning for you.
Computers organize information using folders.
Our brain works the same way. An outline or mind map may be useful in helping you organize information in a meaningful way. It is easiest to remember groups of seven items or less. Use distributed practice. Break down information you need to remember into small parts.