Do top memorizers subvocalize when they memorize a pack of cards or numbers? My times are down to around 1:30 for a pack of cards but I think I could really improve my times if I stop subvocalizing (easier said than done). Is it the key in order to cut on time? However, with complex systems as Simon Reinhard’s (if I understand well, his system is based on syllables) or Ben’s, I can see that subvocalizing could be part of the system itself.
I also have another question concerning training: do top memorizers use flashcards with pictures or they simply use written words to learn their systems? Another way to ask my question would be: do you always try to come up with the exact same picture when memorizing or you use some variation?
Whilst not wishing to convey the idea that I am a top memoriser I am a Grand Master so I feel qualified to answer these questions. Subvocalisation is an interesting point and I am sure some of the top memorisers still do it to some degree but what all memorises should be aiming for is to instantly recall an image for the number/card(s) that they see so there is no process of conversion from number to image - it just happens instantly.
As for using flashcards or not? Use whatever you find helpful! Personally I use a computer program that I have written - it isn’t anything fancy - just command line stuff but I use it to practice numbers and cards with.
I always try to recall the exact same image each time and I suggest this is a good habit, I think it is good for building solid foundations for your memory system. You may find that over time the image evolves to a degree and once you become very familiar with your images when you memorise at speed the images (at least some of them) tend to get recalled without actually having to see the image with crystal clarity, you develop a sort of sense of what the image is.
I don’t have a silver bullet but if you keep mindful of it when practising - over time your subvocalisation should start to fade as you become more and more familiar with your images
Someone said that repeating a single word in his mind while he read for 6 months did the trick for him.
I increased the rate at which my eyes moved across the page to the point where it was impossible to subvocalize.
A handy way to increase your reading rate is to adjust the focus of your eyes (or attention). Look at any nearby image and zoom in on a particular aspect, like the button on a shirt. Then adjust the focus of your eyes so you can see the entire shirt. That's the process you can use to increase your reading speed by increasing the number of words you take in at each eye stop.
Counting out loud.
Counting internally (through subvocalization).
Listening to various types of music.
Humming.
Making a drawn out noise, both out loud and through subvocalization. (In the latter case I hear both the noise and the words internally.)
Try slightly constricting your throat when you read, and see if that helps?
Some new-age stuffs:
some ideas for further exploration:
self-hypnosis & "Time Distortion" (application of self-hypnosis
Expanded Awareness (aka Hakalau, Photo-Focus, Angle Wide Vision). Read while in your expanded awareness state.
probably ought to learn/do "imagestreaming" too.
In order to stop subvocalizing, I have tried to say one digit “loud in my mind” instead of describing the scene. For example, I could say out loud “six-zero” instead of Bart Simpson (26) is playing basketball (20 - B Obama). It is quicker. However, the pictures are more fuzzy during recall.
With a 3-digit system, it would be more efficient. (By the way, for the ones that made the leap - going from a 2-digit system to a 3 - does your effort pay?)
I am a Grand Master so I feel qualified to answer these questions. Subvocalisation is an interesting point and I am sure some of the top memorisers still do it to some degree but what all memorises should be aiming for is to instantly recall an image for the number/card(s) that they see so there is no process of conversion from number to image - it just happens instantly.