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What is the best brain exercise to improve memory?

If one brain exercise stands out for improving memory, it’s active recall—trying to pull information from your mind without looking. Unlike rereading or highlighting, active recall forces the brain to “retrieve,” which is the same action needed later when you want to remember a name, a list, or what you studied. That repeated retrieval strengthens the memory pathway so it becomes easier and faster to access.

Why active recall works so well

Memory improves when you practice retrieval under a little bit of effort. Each time you successfully recall something—especially after a short delay—you reinforce it. Even when you struggle and need to check the answer, the attempt itself helps your brain notice what it doesn’t know yet, so the next round sticks better.

How to do the exercise (simple and effective)

Pick a small set of material (10–20 minutes worth). Then close the source and test yourself:

Write everything you remember on a blank page.
Answer your own questions (or flashcards) without hints.
Explain the idea out loud as if teaching it to someone else.

After you attempt recall, check the original material, correct mistakes, and retry the items you missed. For best results, repeat the exercise later the same day and again over the next few days (spaced repetition), rather than doing one long cram session.

A practical way to turn recall into a routine

Using structured prompts makes active recall easier to start and stick with—especially if you prefer a guided format. For printable and digital options that walk you through recall training step-by-step, see this memory-boost worksheets guide.

For What is the best brain exercise to improve memory?, the best answer depends on fit, material, care instructions, and how the product will be used day to day.

FAQ

How long should I practice memory exercises each day?

Most people get strong benefits from 10–20 minutes of active recall daily, especially when it’s spaced across the week. Consistency matters more than doing long sessions.