The Components of an Effective Recount The first and third person are most commonly utilized, and recollection is always written in the past tense. Recollection writers should be aware of how these elements affect the reader/listener. The human memory is very limited, and it is capable of recording only what goes into it. Thus, you need some kind of device to assist you in recalling information. This device can be as simple as notetaking materials or as complex as computer software that allows you to organize your thoughts and recall them later. In order for someone's recollection to be useful in a court of law, it must be accurate. Therefore, scientists have developed many ways to improve recollection by using such techniques as repetition, association, and manipulation. These methods are so effective that it is not uncommon for people to remember specific details about events that took place years ago. People often wonder why some witnesses can't remember certain things that happened during the crime scene photos. Scientists believe that there are two reasons for this: First, individuals may choose not to remember certain aspects of the event for any number of reasons; second, some things are just too painful or embarrassing to recall. One method used by scientists to increase the accuracy of recollection is cross-examination.