The Drawing Effect: Does Drawing Really Enhance Recall Memory?

Abstract

There is some evidence that the best strategy for remembering text-based information is drawing when using a mixed list design where participants both draw and write in the same list. There is also some evidence that the memory benefits of drawing are reduced when using a pure list design where participants draw or write in separate lists. In this study (n = 91), we compared three encoding strategies for recalling a list of scientific terms and their definitions: drawing, paraphrasing, and writing the definitions, and randomly assigned participants to a condition. We also examined individual difference factors that might impact these encoding strategies. We found no difference across conditions. Instead, drawing abilities, working memory, and familiarity for what was to be remembered predicted recall performance. We conclude that more research is needed before declaring a “drawing effect,” since the effect is reduced when using a pure list design.