Is weirdness or randomness alone effective in enhancing memory?

The idea that weirdness or randomness alone is not effective in enhancing memory stems from the concept of distinctiveness in cognitive psychology. For memory to be improved, information must stand out as unique or different from the regular context in which it is encountered. Simply being weird or random does not ensure that information is memorable; it lacks the necessary attributes that help with encoding, retrieval, and consolidation processes in memory.

Distinctive features provide a meaningful context that aids in memory retention, allowing individuals to recall information more easily later. Without these features, even bizarre or random stimuli may go unnoticed or quickly forgotten. This highlights that merely relying on randomness or unusualness is not sufficient for lasting memory enhancement; instead, it requires additional elements that foster deep processing and connections to existing knowledge.