Visual Imagery and Improv: How it Affects Memory and Recall

Most humans have some amount of mental imagery, or visual imagery. You might find that you use the visuals to help you build and remember improv scenes. The extreme ends are considered to be neurodivergence (they are called hyperphantasia and aphantasia), but regardless of what or how much you have you can do great improv.

For more information see “part 1” of this episode, which covers how visual imagination works and how it affects improv. You can find that episode here:

This episode focuses how to use visual imagery for memory recall in scenes and forms such as a monoscene or macroscene.

I discuss how visual imagery relates to flash memory (I mention this study here: The role of visual imagery in autobiographical memory).

I also include some maybe-practical tips that include:

* how to use this to improve your scenes (and why it’s important)

* good forms to try if you want to enhance visuals

* how to utilize these techniques for second beats of a scene

So if you’re working on how to remember and recall in your scenes better, consider strengthening your visual imagery techniques and see if it helps.

Downloadable content

Download the Free Post-Show Reflection Guide: Sent to your inbox when you subscribe to either newsletter (and added to the footer to each message if you're already subscribed).

Get a booklet with six exercises to help you get reps in challenging scenes called "Exercises to Ruin You"

More resources

• Get articles about improv: Join the ImprovUpdate newsletter(s) for general improv articles, and articles about neuroinclusive improv and comedy. Join either or both!
• Get downloads about improv & comedy: Find them here.
• Review the podcast: Rate and review this podcast on Podchaser.
• Chat about improv and comedy: Join the Improv Update Discord here.

Support

Like this content and want it to continue? Support this podcast here with a one-time tip here: StereoForest.com/tips

About

This podcast was created, written, and is hosted by Jen deHaan. You can find her bio here.

This episode was and edited and produced by StereoForest.com. Contact StereoForest for information about producing YOUR podcast, website, and more at reasonable rates.

Join the FREE StereoForest newsletter for all podcast and show updates at members.stereoforest.com.

What does neuroinclusive mean? It means that you create a supportive environment inclusive and accommodating of all cognitive types and abilities to learn, write together, or perform. This, just like the word