Simply think of a term that rhymes with your date. Make sure your rhyme is a little silly and that it paints a strong picture in your head.
You can leave off the century, so that 1861, the starting date for the Civil War, becomes 61.
Example:
- 61 = Sticky gun
Imagine a Civil War soldier struggling with a gun that’s been covered with honey. It may sound silly, but it works!
More examples:
1773 was the date of the date of the Boston Tea Party. To remember this, you could think:
- 73 = Heavenly tea
1783 marks the end of the Revolutionary War.
- 83 = Ladies’ bee
The most important element of this method is to come up with a great, amusing image. The funnier it is, the more memorable it will be. If possible, come up with a little story to connect all your mental images.