Acronyms as Memorization Tools

Please Excuse My Dear Aunt Sally. This is a variation of a popularized acronym, PEMDAS, that students are taught in order to memorize the mathematic order of operations (Parenthesis, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, then Addition/Subtraction). Another example is Kings Play Chess On Fine Glass Surfaces (KPCOFGS) which is an acronym for the taxonomy order (Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species).

You and your child or students can create your own acronyms for any information that needs to be memorized. Often, funny or ridiculous acronyms work best because they are easier to remember and students sometimes even share them with friends. 

The benefit of using acronyms is that by using a simple phrase you know what letter each of the things you needed to memorize began with. Having the first letter as a hint helps to avoid those frustrating scenarios where you can remember everything except the last couple that always seem to be on the tip of your tongue.

If you come up with any acronyms that you'd like to share, please do so in the comments!