Hi,

I think that as a up-coming sports therapist, we can all agree revising the human anatomy is HARD. There is no easy way to say it. Learning 206 bones, 640 muscles, as well as ligaments, tendons and origins and insertions, is without a doubt is almost impossible. However, I have learned a few tips along the way to help overcome this, and attempt to make it a little easier.

Rule 1- Set a clear plan.  This I find to be the most important first step to ensuring that you can correctly begin your revision. Type or write a document that clearly states what you need to revise. Set this out in any way that you see fit. This can be through making a mind map or creating a simple list. Make sure that it is clear and concise, and that you understand exactly what you need to do.  For example, if you are revising the upper limb, split your page into the sections, elbow, shoulder, hand etc. Then under each heading document what you need to learn, such as the ligaments, bones etc.  If there are any grey areas this would be the time to contact a lecturer to find out any of your queries.

Rule 2- Decide how you want to revise. You is the most important word in this sentence.  You must find the most effective way for your own self to be able to revise. There is no point in copying other people and their revision techniques if they don’t work for you. I have often seen people completing mind map after mind map because everyone seems to be using this method. If this method doesn’t work for you then don’t do it. Find something else. There are so many techniques to use such as mind maps, powerpoints, note taking, listing, cue cards, picture referencing, look-cover-check, audio notes, the list is endless. Find something that works for you.

Rule 3- Repetition-  Anatomy will only stay in your head if you use repetition.  You cannot look over something once and hope that it remains in your head. By going over and over the knowledge that you need to learn is the only way that it will remain in your head. You need to store the information into your long-term memory and not into your short term memory. This will, therefore, allow you to refer back to the information at a later stage.

Rule 4- TAKE BREAKS. I’m sure that you have all heard this before. But is really is important to ensure that you take appropriate breaks in order to let your brain rest. The best way to revise is little and often. Perhaps do half an hour of revision then take a 15-minute break. The knowledge will not stay in your head if you revise for a straight 5 hours. It does not give your brain a chance to rest and process the information that you have revised. By resting this gives your brain a chance to recuperate.

Rule 5- Practice with other people- Now this tip is not for everyone, but I do find this an important tip to consider. Using the help of peers, I have found, is very effective in the learning of anatomy. Using a skeleton, you can help test one another on the muscles and bones, using each others feedback in order to improve. Also one person can take on the role of the teahcer and one of the student. By doing this, some people that act as the teacher find it helps them learn by teaching other people. This means that the student is also learning at the same time, becoming a win- win situation.

I hope that you find these tips useful, when it comes to learning anatomy.