The Phonetic Number System
The Secret Key To Turning Digits Into Memorable Images Like A Pro
Converting everyday information into images, making stories, and visualizing them in your most familiar journeys might seem easier compared to encoding numbers into images and repeating the process. However, converting numbers into images can be just as easy and fun with the help of a mnemonic technique called The Phonetic Number System, also known as The Major System.
This system works by converting numbers into consonant sounds, which can then be formed into words by adding vowels.
Each digit from 0 to 9 is assigned a specific consonant sound. These sounds allow us to construct words that represent numbers, making them easier to visualize and recall.
It’s essential to memorize these phonetic associations to ensure accuracy and speed when using this system.
| Number | Assigned Sound | Memory Cue |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | Z/S | (Zero begins with a Z. S sounds similar) |
| 1 | T/D | (T and D have one downstroke each when written) |
| 2 | N | (N has two downstrokes) |
| 3 | M | (M has three downstrokes) |
| 4 | R | (Four sounds like ‘R’) |
| 5 | L | (L is the Roman numeral for 50) |
| 6 | J/Sh/Ch | (J is a mirror image of 6; ‘Ch’ and ‘Sh’ sound similar) |
| 7 | K/C | (K is made of two inverted 7s) |
| 8 | V/F | (8 has two Vs, and cursive ‘f’ looks like an 8) |
| 9 | P/B | (P and B are mirror images of 9) |
Now that we know the phonetic associations, let’s look at how to form words from numbers.
To form a word, take a two-digit number and use the assigned phonetic sounds to construct a recognizable word by adding vowels:
32 → M & N → Moon, Man, Mane
52 → L & N → Lion, Lane, Lawn
69 → J/Ch/Sh & P/B → Jeep, Chip, Ship
95 → P/B & L → Pill, Bill, Ball
Numbers on their own are abstract and difficult to remember, but when transformed into concrete, vivid images, they become significantly easier to recall. Memory athletes use this system to encode long sequences of numbers into images that can then be placed into a Memory Palace for easy recall.
Preparing a list of concrete images for numbers from 00 to 99 will significantly improve speed and accuracy. This list should contain familiar objects, people, or actions that naturally associate with the sounds.
Additionally, the images in the Major System do not necessarily have to be objects. They can also represent:
People (e.g., 25 = Neil Armstrong)
Places (e.g., 42 = Rome)
Actions (e.g., 77 = Kicking)
Having a mix of objects, people, and actions makes associations richer and more versatile.
Mastering the System
The key to mastering the Phonetic Number System is practice. Start with short numbers, build familiarity with the sounds, and gradually work towards forming rapid associations. Once you’ve memorized your personalized 100-image list, you’ll be able to memorize and recall any numerical data at lightning speed!
In the next post, I’ll be sharing my personal list of 100 images to help you get started. Stay tuned!
Happy Neurons!!