The Art of Memorization: An Interview with Sancy Suraj for The Fastest Time to Recite the Periodic Table


In the world of competitive memorization, few individuals are as accomplished as Sancy Suraj. With a total of six memory records to his name, including the Singapore record for reciting the most digits of pi and the fastest time to recite the periodic table, Sancy is a true expert in the art of memorization. Recently, our magazine had the opportunity to interview Sancy about his background, his approach to memorization, and his thoughts on the future of memory and memorization. Read on to learn more about Sancy’s insights and strategies for improving your own memory skills.

Can you tell us about your background and how you became interested in memory techniques?

As a memory coach and record holder, my interest in memory techniques began when I was in school. I struggled with memorization like many students do, but I found that certain techniques made it easier for me to remember things. This sparked my curiosity and led me to explore memory techniques further. Over time, I realized that I had a natural talent for memorization and began to develop my skills even further.

One of the most effective memory techniques that I use and teach others is the method of loci, also known as the memory palace technique. This involves visualizing a familiar location and associating each item to be memorized with a specific location within that space. By creating strong mental images and associations, the brain is able to recall the information more easily. Another technique is the use of acronyms or mnemonics to help remember lists or sequences of information.

When it comes to memorizing something complex like the periodic table, my process involves breaking it down into smaller chunks and creating visual associations for each element. For example, I might associate the element hydrogen with a hot air balloon, and helium with a balloon floating in the air. By creating unique and memorable associations for each element, I am able to recall them quickly and accurately.

When faced with memorizing something that I find boring or uninteresting, I focus on the end goal and try to find ways to make it more engaging. For example, if I need to memorize a list of medical terms for a project, I might visualize a scene in which I am performing surgery and need to recall the terms to save the patient. By making it more interactive and engaging, it becomes easier to remember.

Overall, I believe that the biggest challenges people face when trying to improve their memory skills are lack of motivation and not knowing where to start. It can be overwhelming to try to memorize something complex without a clear strategy or goal. That’s why I encourage people to break things down into smaller chunks, use memory techniques that work for them, and focus on their progress rather than their mistakes. With practice and dedication, anyone can improve their memory skills and achieve their goals.

What are some of the most effective memory techniques that you use and teach others?

One example of a time when I used my memory skills to benefit me in my personal life was when I was planning my wedding. There were so many details to remember, from the guest list to the seating arrangement to the specific songs for each part of the ceremony. I used the memory palace technique to create a mental map of the wedding venue and associated each detail with a specific location within the space. For example, I associated the bride’s entrance song with the spot where I would be standing at the altar.

Using this technique, I was able to recall all of the details easily and confidently, which made the planning process much smoother. It also helped me feel more in control of the situation and reduced my stress levels. By using memory techniques to stay organized and focused, I was able to enjoy my wedding day without worrying about forgetting anything important.

To stay motivated and continue to improve my memory skills over time, I set specific goals and track my progress. For example, I might set a goal to memorize a certain number of digits of pi or a specific list of information within a certain timeframe. I also practice regularly and challenge myself to memorize new and more complex information. It’s important to maintain a sense of curiosity and playfulness, and to have fun with the process.

In terms of the future of the field of memory and memorization, I believe that technology will continue to play a larger role. With the increasing use of digital devices and artificial intelligence, there will be more opportunities to develop new memory-enhancing tools and strategies. However, I also believe that traditional memory techniques will continue to be relevant and effective. Human memory is a powerful tool that has evolved over millions of years, and it’s important to understand and respect its natural processes.

For those who are just starting to explore memory techniques, my advice would be to start small and be patient with yourself. Choose a specific goal or list to memorize, and experiment with different techniques to find what works for you. It’s also important to practice regularly and be consistent with your efforts. Finally, don’t be discouraged by mistakes or setbacks – they are a natural part of the learning process.

To those who believe that they have a poor memory and cannot improve it, I would say that this is a common misconception. Everyone has the ability to improve their memory skills with practice and dedication. It’s important to understand that memory is not a fixed ability, but rather a skill that can be trained and strengthened. By using memory techniques and challenging yourself to learn new things, you can improve your memory and achieve your goals.

Can you walk us through your process for memorizing something complex like the periodic table?

When it comes to memorizing something complex like the periodic table, there are several techniques that I use that can be very effective. One of the most important things is to break the information down into smaller, more manageable chunks. For example, instead of trying to memorize the entire periodic table at once, I would focus on one section at a time, such as the first 10 elements or a specific group of elements.

Another technique that I use is visualization. I try to create vivid mental images for each element, based on its name, symbol, and properties. For example, for helium (He), I might visualize a bunch of helium balloons floating in the air, while for sodium (Na), I might picture a salt shaker with the letters Na on it.

I also use the memory palace technique to create a mental map of the periodic table. I associate each element with a specific location within the palace, and then visualize the element in that location. For example, I might associate helium with the entrance of the palace, and visualize the helium balloons floating outside the door.

Finally, I try to make the process of memorization as enjoyable as possible. This might mean creating silly or humorous mental images, or turning the process into a game or competition with myself. By staying engaged and curious, I am able to maintain my motivation and focus throughout the process.

When it comes to memorizing something that I find boring or uninteresting, I try to find ways to make it more relevant or engaging. For example, I might try to relate the information to something that I am interested in or passionate about, or create a personal connection to the information. I might also try to find ways to make the process more interactive or hands-on, such as using flashcards or quizzes.

Overall, the key to effective memorization is to find techniques that work for you and to stay committed to the process. With practice and dedication, anyone can improve their memory skills and achieve their goals.

“Memorization doesn’t have to be a chore, it can be an adventure. By using creative techniques and staying curious, we can unlock the power of our memory and explore the vast universe of knowledge.”

How do you approach memorizing something that you are not interested in or find boring?

One of the biggest challenges that people face when trying to improve their memory skills is a lack of motivation or consistency. Memorization requires practice and repetition, and it can be difficult to maintain focus and engagement over time, especially when dealing with complex or dry material.

Another challenge is simply finding the right techniques that work for you. There are many different memory techniques and strategies out there, and what works for one person may not work for another. It can take time and experimentation to find the methods that are most effective for you, and to learn how to adapt those methods to different types of information.

In addition, many people struggle with issues such as stress, fatigue, and distractions, which can all impact memory and concentration. Finding ways to manage these factors and create a supportive learning environment is key to achieving success with memorization.

Finally, it’s important to recognize that memory skills are not innate or fixed, but can be developed and improved with practice. This can be empowering, but it can also be intimidating for those who feel they have “bad” memories or struggle with memorization. Learning to overcome negative self-talk and cultivate a growth mindset can help people to approach the process of memory improvement with more confidence and optimism.

What do you think are the biggest challenges that people face when trying to improve their memory skills?

There are several challenges that people face when trying to improve their memory skills. One of the biggest challenges is simply the overwhelming amount of information that we are exposed to on a daily basis. With so much to remember, it can be difficult to know where to start or how to prioritize our learning.

Another challenge is the fact that memory is often not given the same attention or importance as other cognitive skills, such as problem-solving or critical thinking. This can lead to a lack of awareness about the importance of memory skills and the benefits of improving them.

Furthermore, many people struggle with distractions and interruptions, whether it’s due to technology, work, or personal responsibilities. These distractions can make it difficult to focus on learning and retention of information.

Another challenge is the fact that memory skills can be affected by various factors, such as stress, anxiety, and sleep deprivation. It’s important to address these underlying issues in order to improve memory function.

Lastly, many people simply do not know how to effectively use memory techniques and strategies. This is where education and training can be invaluable, as it can teach individuals how to better encode, store, and retrieve information, and how to adapt those techniques to different types of information.

Overall, improving memory skills requires both awareness and action. By understanding the challenges and obstacles to memory improvement, individuals can take steps to overcome them and develop stronger memory abilities.

“Memory improvement is not just about remembering information, it’s about empowering yourself with the tools and techniques to navigate the overwhelming amount of knowledge that surrounds us.”

In response to our first question, Sancy shared some of his personal background and how he became interested in memory techniques. He explained that as a child, he struggled with poor memory and often found it difficult to keep up with his studies. However, after discovering the world of competitive memorization, he became fascinated with the idea of training his brain to remember vast amounts of information. Through years of practice and experimentation with different memory techniques, Sancy was able to transform his memory skills and become a top-ranked competitor in the field.

When asked about his most effective memory techniques, Sancy emphasized the importance of finding strategies that work for each individual. He explained that there are countless different memory techniques available, ranging from simple visualizations and associations to more complex mnemonic devices. The key, he said, is to experiment with different approaches and find the ones that resonate best with your own learning style and strengths.

Perhaps most impressively, Sancy shared with us his process for memorizing something as complex as the periodic table. He explained that he relied on a combination of visualization, association, and repetition, as well as a deep understanding of the structure and organization of the table itself. By breaking the table down into smaller chunks and using a variety of memory strategies to connect each element with its properties and characteristics, Sancy was able to achieve his remarkable record-breaking time.

Can you give an example of a time when you used your memory skills to benefit you in your personal or professional life?

There have been many instances in both my personal and professional life where my memory skills have proven to be extremely useful. One example that comes to mind is when I was able to recall and apply information from a book that I had read many years ago to a current project I was working on.

In my personal life, I have also used my memory skills to remember important dates, events, and other details that are important to my loved ones. This has allowed me to show my appreciation and care for them in a meaningful way.

In my professional life, my memory skills have helped me to be more efficient and effective in my work. By being able to recall important information quickly and accurately, I have been able to make better decisions and produce higher-quality work.

Additionally, my memory skills have also allowed me to teach and mentor others, both in terms of sharing memory techniques and in helping others to understand complex material. By being able to explain and synthesize information in a clear and concise way, I have been able to help others develop their own memory skills and succeed in their own pursuits.

Overall, I believe that memory skills are invaluable in both personal and professional contexts, and that developing strong memory abilities can have a positive impact on many aspects of life.

How do you stay motivated and continue to improve your memory skills over time?

Staying motivated and continuing to improve memory skills over time can be challenging, but there are a few strategies that I have found to be effective. One key strategy is setting achievable goals and tracking progress over time. By breaking down larger goals into smaller, more manageable tasks, it becomes easier to stay motivated and build momentum over time. Additionally, regularly reviewing progress and celebrating successes along the way can help to maintain motivation and build confidence.

Another strategy is to continually challenge myself by learning new information and testing my memory skills in different ways. This can include practicing with new types of information, such as foreign languages or musical notation, or pushing myself to memorize larger quantities of information or more complex material. By continually challenging myself, I can prevent boredom and keep my memory skills sharp.

I also find it helpful to surround myself with others who are interested in memory techniques and skill development. This can include attending workshops or events, joining online communities, or simply discussing strategies and techniques with friends and colleagues. By being part of a supportive community, I can stay motivated and inspired to continue improving my memory skills.

Finally, I believe that maintaining a positive attitude and embracing the process of learning and growth is crucial for staying motivated and continuing to improve over time. Rather than becoming discouraged by setbacks or challenges, I try to view them as opportunities for learning and growth, and focus on the progress that I have made and the potential for future improvement.

How do you see the field of memory and memorization evolving in the future?

The field of memory and memorization has already evolved significantly in recent years, with the development of new techniques and technologies that make it easier to learn and remember information. I believe that this trend is likely to continue in the future, as scientists and researchers gain a deeper understanding of the brain and how it processes information.

One area that I think will see significant growth is the use of technology to enhance memory skills. For example, there are already apps and programs that use gamification and other techniques to help users memorize information more quickly and effectively. I expect that we will see even more advanced technologies in the future, such as brain-computer interfaces that allow for direct manipulation and enhancement of memory processes.

Another area that I think will see growth is the integration of memory techniques into education and training. By teaching students and professionals how to effectively use memory techniques to learn and remember information, we can help to improve learning outcomes and productivity. This could include the development of new curriculum and training programs that focus specifically on memory skills.

Overall, I believe that the field of memory and memorization is likely to continue to grow and evolve in exciting new ways in the coming years, with many new opportunities for learning, growth, and personal development.

What advice would you give to someone who is just starting to explore memory techniques?

For someone who is just starting to explore memory techniques, my advice would be to start small and be consistent in practice. Rather than trying to memorize large amounts of information all at once, start with smaller, more manageable tasks and build from there. This could include memorizing phone numbers, grocery lists, or other simple pieces of information.

Additionally, it’s important to find memory techniques that work for you personally. There are many different memory techniques available, and not all of them will be effective for everyone. Some people may find visual memory techniques, such as the memory palace method, to be more effective, while others may prefer auditory or kinesthetic techniques.

Consistency is also key when it comes to developing memory skills. By practicing regularly and making memory exercises a part of your daily routine, you can build your memory capacity and improve your recall over time. This could include practicing memorization exercises for just a few minutes each day, or setting aside dedicated time each week for memory practice.

Finally, it’s important to remember that memory techniques are just one part of a larger approach to learning and personal development. By combining memory techniques with effective study habits, time management strategies, and other personal development techniques, you can achieve even greater success and reach your full potential.

What message would you like to share with people who believe that they have a poor memory and cannot improve it?

For anyone who believes they have a poor memory and cannot improve it, I would like to share the message that this is simply not true. While some people may have a natural aptitude for memorization, memory is ultimately a skill that can be learned and improved with practice and dedication.

One of the most important things to remember is that memory is closely tied to focus and attention. By learning how to improve your focus and concentration, you can improve your ability to remember information as well. This could include strategies such as meditation, regular exercise, or simply taking breaks to rest and recharge your brain.

Additionally, it’s important to find memory techniques that work for you personally. As I mentioned earlier, there are many different memory techniques available, and not all of them will be effective for everyone. By experimenting with different techniques and finding what works best for you, you can develop a memory strategy that is tailored to your unique strengths and needs.

Finally, it’s important to remember that memory is not just about rote memorization of facts and figures. By engaging with information in a meaningful way, you can improve your ability to remember it over the long term. This could include taking notes, summarizing information in your own words, or teaching the information to someone else.

In short, anyone can improve their memory with practice, dedication, and a willingness to experiment with different strategies and techniques. Rather than giving up or assuming that you have a poor memory, focus on building your skills and developing a memory strategy that works for you.

“Improving your memory is not about having a perfect brain, it’s about training it to be better than it was yesterday.”

Overall, our interview with Sancy Suraj was a fascinating and insightful look into the world of competitive memorization. From his personal journey of transformation to his expert advice on improving memory skills, Sancy’s insights and strategies can benefit anyone looking to boost their ability to learn and retain information. Whether you’re a student looking to improve your academic performance, a professional seeking to enhance your memory in the workplace, or simply someone interested in the science of memory and memorization, Sancy Suraj’s expertise is sure to inspire and inform.