Flash Anatomy Before entering into a college’s nursing school program, many students enroll in Anatomy and Physiology as a required course. At times, merely reading a book lacks the retention needed to store the vast amount of information into long-term memory. Viewing and quizzing the information repeatedly increases the chances for later recall of the complex material. Usually, creating an interesting way to learn helps to retain more of this vital information in order to pass the course. To study Anatomy and Physiology creatively, construct laminated flashcards to prepare for an exam by gathering materials, preparing index cards, laminating, and frequently reviewing each flashcard. First, collect all the necessary materials. Bring together any impertinent data not easily remembered. Possible items to accumulate include the class’ official Anatomy and Physiology textbook, study guide, lecture notes, or small printed photos. Old quizzes and tests with questions and correct answers serve as study material also. Meanwhile, purchase either lined or unlined index cards available at a variety of stores, including The Dollar General Store which sells them for two packages for one dollar. By analyzing the amount of information needed to study, determine the quantity and size of index cards needed. Furthermore, find a pen or pencil to write on the index cards, as markers tend to bleed through the paper. If using photos, purchase a glue stick to adhere the picture onto the index card. Unless already owned, invest in a laminating machine and laminating sheets for sell at office supply stores such as Office Depot or Staples. Consider the size of the index cards when deciding to purchase a specific laminator and laminating sleeves. Read the instructions to make sure to buy the correct-sized sleeves for the laminator purchased. In review, collect index cards, study material, pen or pencil, glue stick, laminator, and laminating sleeves to construct the flashcards.. Next, write information on the index cards. On one side, inscribe a vocabulary word or question, or paste a small photo. Turn the card over and write the word’s definition, the question’s answer, or the information needed to remember about the picture. Keep in mind that legible penmanship is required to make the cards easier to study in the future. Continue transcribing the information on individual index cards until finished with all of the information needed to know for the exam. At this time, preheat the laminator and begin the task of laminating the index cards. Plug the laminator into an electrical outlet and move the power switch to the on position. Center each index card in a single laminating sheet, and lay aside. When complete, pass one sleeved index card through the laminator per the manufacturer’s instructions. If the card appears to lean downwards as it exits the machine, gently push this end of the laminated card up to a level position. After completing all the cards, repeat the laminating step again to guarantee the plastic melts together leaving minimal air bubbles. When finished laminating, the lamination of the index cards keeps the paper protected from damage. Finally, study the laminated flashcards repeatedly. Stack the cards in multiple piles. Hold one stack and read or look at the photo on the card. Then guess the correct answer, definition or pertinent information about the picture. Afterwards, view the opposite side of the card to check the answer. Then place the card at the bottom of the stack. Review one stack at a time until finished with all of the cards and study over and over again in this manner. In summary, studying the flashcards numerous times helps transport the material from short-term memory into long-term memory for later recollection. Viewing of the information that occurs regularly throughout each step enables possible envisioning of the correct answers while taking an exam. For some, this provides an interesting way to study other than simply reading a book. Follow the steps of gathering materials, preparing index cards, laminating, and reviewing each flashcard frequently to study Anatomy and Physiology creatively. © Mi'Shelle, 2004