What are the top 5 tips for learning anatomy from an anatomist, anatomy medallist and lecturer?
Created with
As an anatomist, I have had to develop strategies to learn large volumes of information effectively. As a subject, I find that anatomy can be either loved or hated by students and much of this depends upon the learning strategy adopted. I have listed my top 5 tips for learning anatomy effectively below:
1. Use mnemonics to prompt memory. You can make your own or use common mnemonics - the more memorable the better! One example is “Two Zebras Bit My Calf” as a prompt for the branches of the facial nerve (CN VII): Temporal, Zygomatic, Buccal, Marginal Mandibular and Cervical
2. Focus on developing understanding rather than rote learning
If you develop understanding then recall will follow on naturally. One way to promote understanding is to develop your anatomical terminology - this is the ‘language of anatomy’ and the key to future study
3. Plan your study time and take regular breaks. Having something you enjoy to look forward to can really help improve the quality of your study time and motivate you to make the most of the time you spend studying. Quality over quantity when it comes to studying.
4.Master the basics then slowly add the details.Consider the body itself; you must have a solid skeleton before other structures can be added. It is the same for learning anatomy - aim to build upon knowledge sequentially.