Book Summary: Memory – How To Develop, Train, And Use It by William Walker Atkinson

Ever wonder why some people seem to remember everything while others can’t recall what they had for breakfast? In “Memory: How to Develop, Train, and Use It,” William Walker Atkinson spills the secrets that memory isn’t some elite skill reserved for geniuses—it’s something you can train, sharpen, and turn into your secret weapon.

Imagine having a memory that’s as dependable as your morning coffee—always there, always reliable, and exactly what you need to get through the day.

Let’s be real: memory powers everything you do. Whether it’s recalling the name of that intriguing person you met last night or nailing the details of a big project, your memory is the engine running in the background.

And here’s the twist—it’s not some mystical gift. It’s a skill you can hone, just like hitting the gym to build muscles. Use it right, and it gets stronger. Neglect it, and it falls apart.

Atkinson shows you how to whip your memory into shape with practical techniques that feel less like a chore and more like a clever life hack. Instead of rummaging through a messy mental junk drawer, you’ll learn to organize your thoughts with ease, making the act of remembering feel natural and, dare I say, a little glamorous.

Techniques like linking names to quirky images make recalling details feel like a fun game instead of a frustrating struggle.

Now, let’s ruffle a few feathers: if your memory isn’t serving you, it’s probably your own doing. Harsh? Maybe. But Atkinson argues that forgetfulness often comes down to bad habits and lack of training—not age, luck, or genetics.

And he’s got the strategies to back it up. From mastering focus to clever association tricks, his approach is a complete mind makeover.

Consider this: studies show that most people forget 50% of new information within an hour. Shocking, right? But it’s not because your brain is broken—it’s because you haven’t trained it properly. Atkinson’s methods can help you buck this trend and keep your mind sharp.

If you’re tired of those awkward moments when names slip your mind or the frustration of losing a brilliant idea mid-thought, you’re in the right place.

This isn’t about memorizing more; it’s about making your memory work smarter, not harder. Imagine breezing through daily life without the constant “Wait, what was I doing?” interruptions.

Now prepare to transform your memory from “Oh, I forgot!” to “Yes, I remember!” Because, a strong memory isn’t just a luxury—it’s a game-changer. And with Atkinson’s guidance, you’re about to become the person everyone envies for their razor-sharp mind.

Lesson 1: Memory: Its Importance

Let’s get one thing straight: memory isn’t just about recalling random details. Atkinson wants you to see that memory is the glue that holds your entire mind together. It’s not just about facts and figures—it’s about how you connect every experience, every lesson, and every moment.

Memory is more than just a mental filing cabinet; it’s tied to your very consciousness. It’s what keeps your life story intact, making sense of who you are from one day to the next. Without it, life would be a jumbled mess of moments with no connection.

Atkinson also breaks down how memory works: some things you remember automatically, like a song lyric that pops into your head. This is known as remembrance. Other times, you need to dig a little deeper, like trying to recall the name of a movie. This is known as recollection. Both can be trained and improved.

Here’s the real game-changer: memory isn’t something you’re just born with—it’s a skill you can develop. Atkinson busts the myth that some people are just naturally good at remembering while others aren’t. He shows that, with the right techniques and some practice, you can build your memory muscle and make it work for you.

Lesson 2 – Cultivation of the memory

Let’s cut to the chase: If you want a memory that’s sharp as a tack, you need to ditch the shortcuts and focus on what really works. Atkinson warns us about the allure of artificial memory systems—those quick-fix tricks that might seem flashy but don’t actually build lasting memory strength. Instead, he pushes for natural methods that require a little effort but deliver real results.

Here’s the deal: Memory isn’t something you can hack with a gimmick. Real improvement comes from daily practice and repetition. It’s like working out—skip the hard work, and you’ll never see the gains. So, if you’re serious about boosting your memory, you’ve got to put in the time and stay committed.

Atkinson also makes it clear that attention is everything. The more you focus when you’re learning something, the better it sticks. If you’re just half-listening or skimming through, don’t be surprised when it slips away. A solid memory starts with giving your full attention upfront.

And let’s not forget about repetition. Consistently revisiting what you’ve learned is key to keeping it fresh and accessible. It’s not about cramming but regularly exercising your memory so it stays in top form.

So, if you’re in this to win it, focus on natural techniques, commit to regular practice, and give your full attention to what matters. Skip the shortcuts—real memory improvement takes time, but the payoff is worth it.

Lesson 3 – Celebrated Cases of Memory

Think your memory is average? Wait until you hear about the legends who turned their minds into powerhouses of recall. In this lesson, Atkinson dives into some jaw-dropping examples of memory mastery that make you rethink what’s possible.

First, let’s talk history: Mithridates, the ancient warrior-king, knew the name of every single soldier in his army. Imagine remembering thousands of names—no phone contacts, just pure mental muscle. Then there’s Charmides, who could recall every book in his massive library, word for word. These aren’t just party tricks; these feats are proof of what a well-trained memory can achieve.

It’s not just individuals—memory mastery is woven into cultural and religious traditions. In India, Brahmins have passed down the Mahabharata, a text with over 300,000 verses, entirely by memory. Meanwhile, Islamic scholars have been memorizing the entire Koran for centuries. Forget modern-day study hacks; these traditions show that disciplined memorization is nothing new.

But it’s not all ancient history—professionals today flex their memory skills, too. Actors memorize lines for multiple plays at once, librarians recall countless book locations, and bankers remember names and faces like it’s second nature. It’s clear: these folks don’t just have “good memories”—they’ve built them through relentless practice in their fields.

Now, here’s the kicker: while some of these celebrated memories seem superhuman, they weren’t born that way. Many of these memory wizards developed their skills through natural methods, persistence, and dedication. They prove that an exceptional memory is within reach—you just have to train it like any other skill.

Ready to start seeing your memory not just as a tool, but as a weapon? This lesson shows that the legends weren’t born—they were made.

Lesson 4 – Memory Systems

Let’s rewind a bit—memory systems aren’t some new trend. They’ve been around for over two thousand years, with the ancient Greeks leading the charge. Atkinson takes us through this long history, showing how people have always been obsessed with trying to hack their memories. But here’s the thing: not all hacks are helpful.

One of the oldest tricks in the book is the method of loci, or the “topical system.” Picture this: you mentally walk through a grand mansion, and each room holds a different memory. Need to recall something? Just stroll through your mental palace, and voilà! It’s clever, sure, but let’s be real—how practical is it to visualize a grand tour every time you need to remember your to-do list?

The problem with these gimmicky methods? They’re often more trouble than they’re worth. Atkinson doesn’t mince words—he points out that these systems, with all their forced connections and bizarre associations, are often useless for everyday life. It’s like trying to learn ballet when all you really need is a quick stretch.

So, what’s the takeaway? True memory improvement doesn’t come from gimmicks. It’s all about natural training: paying attention, practicing regularly, and making smart associations. No fancy tricks—just real, sustainable memory skills that will actually work when you need them.

Lesson 5 – The Subconscious Record-File

Let’s talk about your mind’s hidden powerhouse: the subconscious. Atkinson reveals that this part of your mind is like a massive record file, quietly storing every single experience, thought, and idea you’ve ever had. Your conscious mind is just the tip of the iceberg—the real action is happening below the surface.

Here’s the wild part: your subconscious mind records everything. Yes, everything. Even the stuff you think you’ve forgotten is tucked away in your mental archives, waiting to be rediscovered. There’s no such thing as absolute forgetting—it’s all still in there, even if you can’t recall it on command.

Imagine your subconscious as a giant filing system with tiny “office boys” running around, storing, indexing, and retrieving memories. If a memory was created with sharp attention, it’s like a neatly filed document. But if you were distracted, it’s more like a crumpled note tossed into the wrong drawer—harder to find when you need it.

Attention is the golden key. The more focused you are when forming a memory, the deeper it’s etched into your subconscious. Pair that with strong associations, and you’re giving those office boys cross-references that make retrieval a breeze.

The good news? You can train these little mental assistants. By regularly exercising your memory, reviewing what you’ve learned, and building strong associations, you can whip your subconscious into shape, making recall smoother and faster.

Lesson 6 – Attention

Let’s get one thing straight: if your attention is all over the place, your memory will be, too. Atkinson emphasizes that attention is the secret sauce for forming clear, lasting memories. Without it, your mind is like a camera with a shaky lens—everything comes out blurry and half-formed.

The quality of your memory is directly tied to the amount of attention you give when you first encounter something. Pay sharp attention, and the memory sticks like superglue. Let your mind wander, and that information is slipping through the cracks, barely holding on.

Here’s the breakdown: there are two types of attention. Involuntary attention is effortless—your mind is drawn to things that naturally interest you, like a catchy song or an intriguing conversation. But voluntary attention? That’s where the real power lies. It’s the ability to focus on what bores you to tears just because you’ve decided it’s worth your time. It’s not easy, but it’s a skill that can be trained.

And yes, voluntary attention can be developed. Atkinson suggests pushing yourself to find interest in everything, even the dull stuff. Practicing this skill will make it easier to lock in on whatever you choose, no matter how mundane.

To get started, try this exercise. Observe something in detail—a book, a scene, anything. Study every nook and cranny, then describe it in full. Turn it into a challenge, a game. The more you train your focus, the sharper your mind’s eye will become, turning everyday attention into a powerful, precise tool for memory mastery.

Lesson 7 – Association

Ever wonder why a simple whiff of perfume can transport you back to a forgotten moment, or why hearing a song can flood you with memories? That’s the power of association at work—your mind’s secret weapon for recalling stored information. Atkinson explains that association is like the indexing system of a library, making it easier to find memories when you need them.

There are two main types of associations you need to know about. The first is contiguity, which links things that happen close together in time, like remembering what you ate while watching your favorite show. The second is similarity, connecting things that are alike, like linking a friend’s laugh to a character in a movie. Master these, and you’re already halfway to having a memory that works for you instead of against you.

The stronger and more numerous your associations, the easier it is to recall a memory. Think of it as having multiple bookmarks that all lead to the same page—lose one, and another still gets you there. This is why making vivid and unusual connections is a game-changer. The crazier the link, the better it sticks.

And don’t think association is just for special occasions. It’s happening all the time in your everyday life. A smell, a sound, or even a random word can trigger memories you didn’t even know were still in there. 

So, if you want to start recalling things with ease, start making connections. Link the new with the familiar, and get creative with your associations. Your mind’s ready to work overtime—if you give it the right tools.

Lesson 8 – Phases of Memory

Memory isn’t just one big, monolithic skill—it’s a collection of different phases, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Atkinson lays it out clearly: you might have a killer memory for faces but struggle with names, or maybe you remember dates like a historian but can’t recall a single joke. These are just different phases of your memory at work.

Memory breaks down into two main classes: Memory of Sense Impressions and Memory of Ideas. Sense Impressions cover everything your five senses take in—what you see, hear, taste, touch, and smell. Memory of Ideas, on the other hand, deals with concepts, thoughts, and the mental connections you make between them.

Now, here’s the interesting part: most of what you remember from your senses comes from sight and hearing. Think about it—how much more vividly do you recall the last movie you watched than the last meal you tasted? Unless, of course, you’re a wine connoisseur or a chef, where taste and smell become your sharpest tools. This just goes to show that with the right training, you can hone any phase of memory to suit your needs.

But here’s the real takeaway: balance is key. While it’s tempting to focus on what you’re already good at, a well-rounded memory develops across all phases. Whether it’s faces, names, dates, or ideas, diversifying your memory skills will lead to balanced mental growth and a more powerful mind overall.

So, don’t just lean on your strengths—challenge yourself to develop those weaker phases of memory. That’s where the real magic happens, turning your mind into a well-oiled machine ready to handle whatever life throws at it.

Lesson 9 – Training the Eye

If you want a memory that works like a camera, snapping mental photos that last, it’s time to train your eyes. Atkinson dives into the art of sharpening your visual memory, showing you that seeing isn’t just about looking—it’s about truly observing. The more you train your eye, the more vividly you’ll recall details, images, and scenes.

It all starts with observation. Think of your mind as a sketchbook. The more carefully you observe, the clearer and more accurate your mental sketches become. Atkinson emphasizes that strong visual memory is built on this foundation—keen, deliberate observation.

To get your eyes in top shape, Atkinson suggests exercises that feel almost like a game. Start by studying an object, scene, or picture in detail. Really take it in. Then, look away and try to describe it as precisely as you can. The goal? Notice the fine details that most people overlook.

And here’s the kicker: attention is everything. The sharper your focus when you observe, the clearer the mental picture will be. It’s not just about glancing—it’s about immersing yourself fully in what you see.

Consistency is key. Make these visual exercises a daily habit, and you’ll find your eye training pays off. You’ll start noticing things you’ve never seen before, and your memory will snap into action, turning everyday sights into unforgettable visuals.

Lesson 10 – Training the Ear

Your ears aren’t just there to hear—they’re gateways to a sharper memory. Atkinson explains that hearing is a vital sense for capturing life’s details, right behind sight. But here’s the twist: it’s not your ears that do the real work, it’s your mind. Your brain filters out sounds based on what you’re interested in and where your attention is focused.

One common problem? Many people struggle to remember what they’ve heard, not because they have bad hearing, but because they haven’t trained their mental hearing faculty. Just like your eyes, your ears need a workout to become finely tuned instruments.

Some people naturally excel at this. Think of musicians who can pick out a single wrong note in a symphony or a mother who wakes up at the slightest sound of her baby. These aren’t superpowers—they’re examples of specialized, trained hearing.

The secret to improving your auditory memory lies in attention and interest. The more you focus on what you’re hearing, the better you’ll remember it. It’s about actively listening, not just letting sounds wash over you.

Atkinson also suggests practical exercises to boost your ear’s memory. Try memorizing sentences from conversations, distinguishing between different voices or sounds, or repeating back what you hear. These exercises sharpen your auditory senses, making your memory for sounds as sharp as your memory for sights.

So, if you’re ready to turn your ears into finely tuned instruments, start paying attention to the sounds around you. With consistent practice, you’ll find yourself remembering more of what you hear and becoming an expert listener.

Lesson 11 – How to Remember Names

Ever had that awkward moment when someone’s name just slips your mind? Atkinson totally gets it, and he’s here to tell you that remembering names is a challenge for many people—but it doesn’t have to stay that way. With a bit of training and some clever techniques, you can turn name recall into a breeze.

The reason names are so tricky is simple: they aren’t naturally interesting. Unlike objects or ideas that have a shape or meaning, names are just sounds, and your brain doesn’t naturally latch onto them. But that’s where the work comes in—if you train your mind to pay closer attention to the sound of names, you’ll notice improvement right away.

Start by focusing on how a name sounds when you first hear it. Repeating the name out loud or writing it down can help solidify the impression. Think of it as giving your mind a second chance to grab hold of the name and file it away properly.

And here’s the real magic: association. If you connect a new name with something familiar, like a person you already know, or create a visual cue for the name, it sticks better. For example, if you meet someone named John, picture them standing next to your friend John. The more creative your associations, the stronger your memory will be.

With a little practice, remembering names will stop feeling like a guessing game, and you’ll be the one who always gets it right on the first try.

Lesson 12 – How to Remember Faces

If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “I know the face, but I can’t remember the name,” you’re not alone. Atkinson explains that remembering faces and remembering names are interconnected but don’t always go hand in hand. Some people are great at one but struggle with the other, and that’s completely normal.

People with a knack for remembering faces can often recall individuals they met years ago and even remember the context in which they met them, even if the name is lost. If you can picture someone clearly but can’t recall their name, your face memory is probably strong.

In some professions—like detectives, reporters, or anyone who interacts with many people daily—being able to recall faces is a must. These people develop face-memory skills because it’s essential for their work.

So, how do you get better at remembering faces? It’s all about attention and interest. Start paying closer attention to features like the eyes, noses, and facial expressions of the people you meet. The more you notice, the more likely you are to remember.

Atkinson suggests a simple but powerful exercise: after meeting people throughout your day, sit down and visualize their faces. Try to recall specific details and imagine them clearly. This practice sharpens your face-memory skills and makes it easier to remember people when you see them again.

Lesson 13 – How to Remember Places

If you’ve ever found yourself struggling to remember directions or places, Atkinson’s got your back with a few simple, yet powerful techniques. Remembering places is all about paying attention, forming mental connections, and practicing regularly.

First up—take notice. When you’re out and about, don’t just stroll through your surroundings. Actively pay attention to landmarks, streets, and turns. The more you focus on the details, the stronger your memory for those places will be.

Another powerful tool? Maps. Don’t just glance at them—study them with interest. Get curious about the layout of streets and areas. Map reading engages your brain and trains your ability to navigate and remember locations.

Here’s a fun exercise: practice mental mapping. As you walk, mentally mark landmarks, street corners, and directions. Then, when you’re home, close your eyes and retrace your steps. Draw a rough sketch of the route, including key landmarks and streets. This visual reinforcement helps your mind remember the place long-term.

And like anything, practice makes perfect. Make it a habit to test yourself—take new routes, explore different areas, and challenge your mind to recall the details later. The more you engage, the sharper your memory for places will become. Soon, you’ll find yourself navigating like a pro, with your mind’s map always up-to-date.

Lesson 14 – How to Remember Numbers

Let’s face it—numbers can be tricky to remember. They’re abstract, don’t carry much inherent meaning, and tend to slip through your mental fingers if you don’t handle them right. But Atkinson shows us that remembering numbers doesn’t have to feel like a struggle if you use the right techniques.

First off, try associating numbers with sound or sight. When you hear or see a number, repeat it aloud or picture it in your mind. That little extra step of engaging your senses helps the digits stick.

Another powerful trick? Visualization. Picture the numbers written down, or link them to a visual event. For example, if you need to remember “23”, imagine a birthday cake with 23 candles. It turns the abstract into something you can see in your mind.

Of course, the law of association works here too. You can link numbers to something meaningful to make them easier to recall. Take “1776,” for example—it’s way easier to remember when you associate it with the American Declaration of Independence. Creating these links makes numbers more than just digits—they become stories or events.

Finally, as always, practice makes perfect. Work with numbers daily, solve problems, and challenge your brain. The more you practice, the sharper your memory for numbers will get. Combine that with a little attention and interest, and soon numbers will stop feeling like a puzzle and more like second nature.

Lesson 15 – How to Remember Music

Remembering music isn’t just for the gifted—it’s a skill you can build with the right techniques. Atkinson explains that music memory works in two key phases: memory of the tune and memory of the notes. Both are crucial for truly mastering a piece of music.

First, let’s tackle the memory of the tune. To improve your ability to remember melodies, it’s all about focused listening. When you hear a song, don’t just let it wash over you—really get into the spirit of the music. Try replaying the tune in your mind after hearing it. The more you immerse yourself in the sound, the easier it’ll be to recall later.

Next up is the memory of notes. This requires a more structured approach, and a great method is to learn by sections. Musicians often memorize just a few bars at a time. Once you’ve got that section down, move to the next, and then combine the two. Keep doing this until you’ve memorized the whole piece. It’s like building a puzzle—one section at a time.

A powerful tool for this is visualization. Try to picture the notes in your mind, as if you’re seeing them on a sheet of music. Combining visual memory with the sound of the notes helps lock them into your mind more effectively.

If you’re just starting out, begin with simple songs. These are easier to memorize and will help you develop the techniques needed for more complex pieces. Once you’ve mastered simple tunes, you can move on to more intricate works with confidence.

By practicing these techniques, you’ll soon find that remembering music becomes second nature—whether it’s a melody or the notes themselves, your mind will be ready to recall it all with ease.

Lesson 16 – How to Remember Occurrences

Struggling to recall what happened yesterday, or even this morning? Atkinson breaks down why that happens and how to fix it. The main reason most of us forget daily events is simple—we don’t pay attention. We let things happen without making an effort to mentally capture them.

The key to remembering occurrences is reviewing your day. Atkinson suggests taking a few minutes every evening to mentally walk through the events of the day. This simple habit helps strengthen your memory and locks those experiences into your brain for future recall.

Why does this work? By deepening the impressions, you’re making the day’s events more memorable. Your subconscious takes note of what you review and files it away in a way that makes it easier to access later.

Atkinson compares this practice to a cow “chewing the cud.” Just as cows digest food more thoroughly by chewing it again, you sharpen your memory by mentally digesting your day’s occurrences.

Need proof this works? Take Thurlow Weed, a politician known for his impressive memory. He practiced this method religiously, reviewing each day’s events in detail with his wife. Over time, this simple practice turned his memory into a powerful tool.

So, if you want to be the person who never forgets what happened, start making evening reviews a habit. It’s an easy, effective way to boost your memory for daily occurrences.

Lesson 17 – How to Remember Facts

Remembering facts isn’t just about cramming information; it’s about organizing it in a way that your brain can easily access later. Atkinson explains that when it comes to fact memory, it’s all about storing knowledge in relation to a particular subject. It’s not about remembering an event or occurrence, but about recalling specific details and data.

One of the biggest issues people face is lack of proper association. When facts aren’t organized well in your mind, they tend to get lost. If you’ve only stored them based on when or where you learned them, good luck finding them when you need them. That’s why making strong associations is key.

Think of your mind like a well-organized file cabinet or type case. Just like you’d sort papers or tools in the right place, you need to mentally classify and index facts. This means grouping similar information together, which makes it easier to retrieve later.

The real trick to remembering facts? Association by relation. Don’t just link facts by coincidence—organize them in a way that makes sense. By associating facts with meaningful, relevant connections, you’ll have a much better chance of recalling them when needed.

So, if you want to boost your ability to remember facts, it’s time to stop thinking randomly and start organizing smartly. Strong associations and clear mental classifications are your keys to fact recall mastery.

Lesson 18 – How to Remember Words, Etc

Long before we had printing presses and easy access to written material, people were memorizing massive texts—think religious scriptures like the Koran. Atkinson points out that these memory feats weren’t the result of superhuman abilities but natural methods that anyone can use.

The natural method for memorizing words, sentences, or verses is simple: steady work and consistent review. Start by memorizing one line at a time, then review it alongside the previous lines to build a strong chain of associations. This step-by-step approach creates a solid foundation for retaining large amounts of text.

To really lock in those words, focus on three key elements: association, attention, and repetition. Connect the new material to what you’ve already memorized, give full attention to the details, and review the content frequently. This not only strengthens your memory but also deepens your recall.

What makes this even easier? Interest and motivation. When you see progress, it feels rewarding, and memorizing becomes less of a chore and more like a fun challenge. Turning it into a game keeps your mind engaged and helps you retain more.

This method isn’t just for ancient scholars—actors, speakers, and anyone needing to memorize large chunks of text use it too. The key is to start small, build your memory step by step, and watch as those words stay with you for the long haul.

With these techniques, memorizing long speeches, scripts, or verses will become second nature. Just remember: slow, steady, and consistent wins the race.

Lesson 19 – How to Remember Books, Plays, Tales, Etc

Struggling to recall that novel you just finished or the details of a play you saw last week? Atkinson offers some key strategies to help you remember books, plays, and tales more effectively. It all starts with one crucial ingredient: interest and attention. If you’re skimming through content without fully engaging, don’t be surprised when the details slip away.

The first rule? Avoid careless reading. Reading just to kill time won’t help you remember much. Instead, approach every book or story with the mindset of gaining something from it. Read with intention, not passivity.

Next, Atkinson emphasizes the importance of mental review. After you finish a book or watch a play, take a moment to mentally walk through the plot and key details. This active reflection locks the content into your memory.

Want an even stronger memory boost? Start visualizing the content. Picture the characters, the setting, and the scenes as vividly as you can. Turning the words into mental images makes it easier to retain the details later.

Finally, don’t get bogged down trying to memorize every single word. Focus on impressions over words. Capture the essence of what you’ve read—the themes, the emotions, the big ideas. When you grasp the overall meaning, the details will naturally fall into place.

By applying these techniques, you’ll turn reading into an active process and never forget the key points of books, plays, or tales again.

Lesson 20 – General Instructions

Atkinson wraps it up with a reminder: mastering memory is all about focus, practice, and smart strategies. First, attention is key—the sharper your focus, the stronger your memory. Use multiple senses to boost retention—see it, hear it, feel it.

He stresses association: the more links you make between ideas, the easier it is to recall them. Finally, repetition keeps your memory sharp. Consistently review and exercise your mind. No shortcuts—just disciplined practice for lasting results.

Memory: How to Develop, Train, and Use It Book Review

William Walker Atkinson’s Memory is a no-nonsense manual for those serious about boosting their mental recall. The strategies? They absolutely make sense, and he doesn’t just leave you hanging—there are practical exercises to implement them, making it more of a hands-on approach than a theoretical read.

Now, let’s get real: the same ideas do show up repeatedly, and the writing could definitely use more examples or stories to break up the monotony. It’s like Atkinson knew what works but kept hammering the same points over and over. That said, if you’re willing to push through the repetition, there’s gold in there for anyone committed to improving their memory.

Bottom line? I’d recommend this to those who are in it for the long haul and don’t mind wading through repetitive sections to get to the good stuff. If memory improvement is your goal, this book will give you the tools—you just have to be ready for a little déjà vu while reading!