How does the pegword technique enhance memory retention?

The pegword technique enhances memory retention by linking words to pre-learned associations. This mnemonic device involves creating a mental 'peg' for items to be remembered by associating them with a specific word or image that has already been learned. For example, the numbers 1 through 10 could be associated with words such as "bun," "shoe," or "tree." When trying to remember a list, one can visualize these pegs in relation to the new information, making it easier to recall.

By creating these associations, individuals leverage existing cognitive structures, enhancing the efficiency of memory retrieval. The connections formed between the pegwords and the new information help to create enduring mental links, thus enhancing memory retention effectively. The technique allows the brain to organize and recall information in a more structured way, improving overall recall ability.

The other options, like verbal repetition, breaking information into smaller chunks, or using color coding, address different memory strategies but do not specifically utilize the pegword associations that are fundamental to this technique.