Are there any words on your tongue? Here’s a technique to find it quickly

Forgetting a word even after knowing it is a common and universal experience. Psychologists call this the “word on the tip of the tongue” phenomenon. This occurs when our long-term memory, where information is stored, struggles to transmit an accurate concept or word to our consciousness.

This phenomenon can be exacerbated by stress or cognitive overload. Yet, according to recent research, the solution may actually be within reach.

Tap to unlock memory

A study published in the journal cognitive science A surprising technique was discovered: tapping a surface with an index finger. Participants who encountered a word that was difficult to find were invited to perform this expression at their own pace.

Result ? Those who tapped learned their words more quickly than those who were forced to stand still. This success may be explained by the simultaneous activation of brain areas associated with language and movement. In other words, it may be easier to retrieve information from memory using gestures.

Effect of gestures on short-term memory

Studies confirm the effectiveness of gestures in these types of situations. This study showed that participants retrieved forgotten words faster by performing movements.

For people with limited short-term memory, these gestures reduce cognitive load, freeing up mental space to focus on word finding. This explains why some people move or tap involuntarily when trying to remember something.

A simple technique worth trying

If you find yourself in that frustrating moment when a word escapes you, try tapping lightly on the table or making spontaneous gestures with your hands. These activities, although simple, can help your brain make the connections needed to retrieve information.

And if that doesn’t work right away, take a deep breath, take a break, and relax your mind.