The PAO System (Person-Action-Object): A Beginner’s Guide
For a beginner in memory training, the thought of memorizing hundreds of random digits in minutes can seem impossible. While a system like the Major System is a great first step, elite memorization requires a more advanced technique to handle a massive volume of information at lightning speed. This is where the PAO (Person-Action-Object) System comes in.
The PAO System is the secret weapon of virtually every competitive memory athlete. It’s a powerful mnemonic technique that combines the principles of visualization, association, and storytelling to transform a long string of numbers into a single, unforgettable image. This guide will provide a simple breakdown of the PAO system and how you can begin to use it.
What is the PAO System?
The PAO System is a method where every number from 00 to 99 is assigned a unique Person, a unique Action, and a unique Object. The goal is not to memorize a single image for each number, but to use these components to create a dynamic, three-part story. This allows you to convert a six-digit string into a single scene, dramatically reducing the amount of information you need to remember.
Step 1: Building Your PAO List (The Foundation)
The first and most time-consuming step is to create a list of 100 unique Person-Action-Object sets, from 00 to 99. The best way to do this is to use a number-to-image system like the Major System or a phonetic system to help with the associations. The images should be highly familiar and memorable to you.
| Number | Person (P) | Action (A) | Object (O) |
| 00 | Santa Claus | Shaking | Christmas Sack |
| 23 | Nelson Mandela | Negotiating | Miniature Flag |
| 51 | Luke Skywalker | Lighting | Saber |
| 88 | Flash | Flashing | Flashing Light |
| 99 | Peter Pan | Playing the Panflute | Panflute |
Note: For many memory athletes, a number-to-image system is used to create these lists. For example, 23 = n-m = Nelson Mandela. 51 = l-t = Luke Skywalker.
Step 2: The Magic of the Combination
The power of the PAO system lies in its ability to take three separate numbers and combine them into a single, cohesive scene. The formula is as follows:
1st Number: Provides the Person.
2nd Number: Provides the Action.
3rd Number: Provides the Object.
Let’s use a 6-digit number string as an example: 51-23-00
- P from 51: Our Person for 51 is Luke Skywalker.
- A from 23: Our Action for 23 is Negotiating.
- O from 00: Our Object for 00 is a Christmas sack.
The resulting scene is: Luke Skywalker is negotiating with a Christmas sack.
This single, bizarre, and unforgettable image now represents the six-digit number 512300. For a memory athlete, this is a massive leap in efficiency. They can now memorize a long string of numbers with far fewer images, leading to a much faster memorization speed.
Step 3: Storing the Scenes in a Memory Palace
Once the bizarre PAO scene is created, the final step is to place it at a locus in a Memory Palace. This is what makes a massive string of numbers manageable. A 30-digit number, which would be 15 two-digit images with a standard Major System, becomes just 5 PAO scenes. Each scene is placed at a distinct locus in the palace, and the memory athlete simply walks the path to recall the information.
Why is the PAO System so Effective?
- Massive Information Reduction: It allows you to reduce a six-digit number into a single image, making memorization exponentially faster.
- Increased Memorability: A scene with a person, action, and object is far more dynamic and memorable than a single, static image. Our brains are hardwired for stories, and the PAO system creates a continuous narrative.
- Speed and Fluidity: Once the PAO system is memorized and practiced, the process becomes instantaneous. The memory athlete sees “512300” and their brain immediately flashes the scene of “Luke Skywalker negotiating with a Christmas sack.”
The PAO system is the perfect blend of logic and creativity, providing a streamlined and highly effective way to master the art of number memorization. It is an advanced skill that is highly rewarding and is essential for anyone who wants to compete in memory sports.
Common FAQ
1. Is it hard to create a PAO list?
Yes, it can be time-consuming. It is the most significant upfront investment for a memory athlete, but once it is memorized, it becomes a permanent part of your mental toolbox.
2. Can I use the same person or action for different numbers?
No. Each number from 00 to 99 must have a unique person, action, and object to avoid confusion and “ghosting” of images.
3. Do I have to use celebrities for my list?
No. You can use family members, fictional characters, or people you know. The key is that the person, action, and object must be instantly recognizable to you.
4. How long does it take to get fast with the PAO system?
The initial learning of the 100 sets can take weeks. The speed comes from consistent daily practice.
5. How do I get started with a PAO list?
Start with a simple number like 01 and build your list one number at a time. Write it down and use flashcards to practice.
6. Is the PAO system only for numbers?
No. It can be adapted to memorize playing cards, binary numbers, and other types of abstract data.
7. Can I memorize four-digit numbers with this system?
Yes. You can take the Person from the first number and combine it with the Action-Object of the second number.
8. What if an action and object don’t make sense together?
The absurdity is the point! The more bizarre and nonsensical the scene, the more memorable it is.
9. Is this method better than the Major System?
For speed and competition, the PAO system is superior because it drastically reduces the number of images. For a beginner, the Major System is an excellent starting point.
10. What’s the biggest benefit of the PAO system?
The ability to reduce large amounts of abstract data into a very small number of dynamic and memorable scenes.