(Copyright © 2000-2001 --
this item revised 19 Nov 2000)
From Joe Chacko's 1996 FAQ:
There are very few regular users of this group who would not agree that mathematics is not really about learning ... formulas. It would be much better for you to learn how to work things out from first principles. This is an easier way to learn, and imparts a better understanding of the mathematics involved. If you are young, this could make the difference between being able to do mathematics for the rest of your life, or for the next few weeks/months.
The simple answer to the memory problem is PRACTICE.
Memory aids can help, but only as part of a controlled mathematics diet.