Memorize the parts of the brain once and for all! There are many sites out there where you’ll find the parts of the brain listed or pictured (including this one from Healthline), but if you need to memorize the parts of the brain and what they do now, then here’s a mnemonic device to help you remember the parts of the brain. You will never forget the anatomy of the brain after you see this video. Improve your grade on your next biopsychology test and learn more about mnemonics at the same time. If you’re looking for psychology mnemonics, this is it.

Mnemonic Devices used in this episode

• Cerebral Cortex: imagine a Texas cowboy hat on top of a brain. The cortex is the outer layer of the brain just under the hat where complex thinking occurs.
• Corpus Callosum: The corpus callosum is the fibers that connect the two halves of the brain. Thus, it adds the two parts together. Think of the corPLUS CalloSUM. Since the corpus callosum coordinates communication between the two hemispheres, think of corpus Call Someone.
• Thalamus: the thalamus takes sensations that come from the body and directs them to the appropriate part of the brain for processing. Thus, think of Hal and Amos – two traffic cops in the brain who direct these sensations to the right route.
• Hypothalamus: the hypothalamus regulates a number of things in the body such as body temperature, thirst, hunger, and sex drive. Think of “hypo the llamas”. Your llamas are hot, sweaty and thirsty and you use a hypo to spray water on them to cool them down and give them some water.
• Hippocampus: the hippocampus is the seat of memory. Think of a hippo with a compass. The hippo uses the compass to find his way back to the swamp because he can’t remember where it is.
• Amygdala: the amygdala controls your sense of fear. Think of either a MIG coming right at you and, of course, making you afraid, or picture a scary wig with dollars in it
• Pons: the pons helps you relax and sleep. Think of a relaxing pond.
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• Cerebellum: the cerebellum helps in coordination and balance. Picture your favorite athlete with bells all over his/her body (hanging from his/her clothes, hands, feet, etc.).
• Reticular Formation: the reticular formation helps you to become alert and aroused when you need to be. Think of what would happen if you were napping and someone tickled you: your reticular formation would kick into gear to wake you up.
• Medulla: the medulla regulates the autonomic activity of your heart and lungs. Picture medals over your heart and lungs, or stick those medals into a heart.

Psych Files listener Toby sent me this link to an excellent site where you can find mnemonics for all kinds of disciplines: Mnemonics Guide from EUdesign.

If you liked the “Tickle Me Freud” doll you saw in the episode (I got it for my wife as a present), you can get it at Amazon. Click on Freud:

Tags: anatomy of the brain, body, Brain, Callosum, cccccc, cerebral cortex, heart, outer layer of the brain, parts of the brain, table, Video