The Sancy Suraj Story: Mastering the Periodic Table in Record for the Fastest Time to Recite the Periodic Table


Sancy Suraj, a well-known memory coach, has set yet another impressive record by reciting all the elements of the periodic table in just 4 minutes and 19 seconds. This incredible feat took place at Trehaus@Funan on Pi Day, 28 August 2021, and has earned him the title of the fastest time to recite the periodic table. As a magazine that specializes in interviewing memory experts and athletes, we had the opportunity to sit down with Sancy Suraj and ask him about his journey towards mastering the periodic table, as well as his approach to memory training.

What inspired you to pursue a record for the fastest time to recite the periodic table, and how did you prepare for this challenge?

The periodic table is an incredibly important part of science and something that has fascinated me for a long time. I was initially inspired to pursue this record after I saw other memory athletes and experts demonstrating their ability to recite the periodic table in impressive times. I knew that I had a strong interest in this subject and I wanted to see if I could challenge myself to achieve something similar.

To prepare for this challenge, I dedicated a significant amount of time to studying and memorizing the periodic table. I used a variety of techniques, including visual imagery and mnemonic devices, to help me remember the order of the elements and their respective symbols. I also practiced actively recalling the information as much as possible, as this is an essential aspect of developing a strong memory.

In addition to these specific preparation techniques, I also maintained a healthy lifestyle, including getting enough sleep and exercise, and eating a balanced diet. These factors are critical for maintaining optimal brain function and ensuring that my memory skills were at their best. Furthermore, I practiced regularly and consistently to build my memory skills gradually over time, rather than attempting to cram all the information in at once.

Overall, I believe that my passion for the periodic table and my dedication to preparing for this challenge were key factors in my success. By putting in the time and effort to develop my memory skills and maintain a healthy lifestyle, I was able to achieve this record and demonstrate the incredible potential of the human memory.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced during your training, and how did you overcome them?

Training for the fastest time to recite the periodic table was not an easy task, and there were several challenges that I faced along the way. One of the biggest challenges was simply the sheer amount of information that I needed to memorize. The periodic table has over 100 elements, each with their own symbol and atomic number, which can be overwhelming to try to remember all at once.

To overcome this challenge, I broke down the information into smaller chunks and practiced regularly. I started by memorizing groups of elements at a time, rather than trying to learn the entire periodic table all at once. I also used various mnemonic devices, such as associating each element with a word or image that was personally meaningful to me. Additionally, I practiced recalling the information frequently, which helped me to consolidate the information in my memory and make it easier to remember.

Another challenge that I faced was maintaining my motivation and focus during the long hours of training. Memorizing the periodic table is a mentally demanding task, and it can be easy to get distracted or lose focus during practice sessions.

To address this challenge, I established a clear training schedule and made sure to take breaks when I needed them. I also set small, achievable goals for myself and celebrated each milestone as I progressed toward my ultimate goal. Finally, I reminded myself of my passion for the subject matter and the personal satisfaction I would gain from achieving this record, which helped me to stay motivated and focused.

In conclusion, training for the fastest time to recite the periodic table was a challenging but ultimately rewarding experience. By breaking down the information into smaller chunks, using mnemonic devices, and maintaining my motivation and focus, I was able to overcome the challenges and achieve this record.

You’ve achieved multiple records in memory performance. How do you approach learning new information and committing it to memory?

Learning new information and committing it to memory is a crucial aspect of achieving success in memory performance, and it is something that I take very seriously. To approach this task, I use a variety of techniques and strategies that I have developed over many years of practice.

Firstly, I always start by breaking down the information into smaller, more manageable chunks. This helps me to focus on one piece of information at a time and prevent myself from becoming overwhelmed. Next, I use a combination of visual imagery and mnemonic devices to help me remember the information. For example, I might create an image in my mind that represents the information, or I might associate the information with a word or phrase that is personally meaningful to me.

In addition to these techniques, I also use active recall to consolidate the information in my memory. This involves practicing recalling the information multiple times, which helps to strengthen the neural connections in my brain and make the information easier to remember over the long term. I also make sure to take regular breaks during my practice sessions to give my brain a chance to rest and consolidate the information.

Finally, I believe that maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also essential for effective learning and memory. This includes getting enough sleep, exercise, and proper nutrition. All of these factors contribute to optimal brain function and help to support my memory performance.

“Learning is like building a house, you need to start with a strong foundation of focused attention and deliberate practice, and then layer on effective techniques and healthy habits to create a memory palace that can stand the test of time.”

You had to type out the elements in addition to reciting them verbally. How did you balance the need for speed with the need for accuracy in spelling?

Balancing the need for speed with the need for accuracy in spelling was a crucial aspect of achieving the fastest time to recite the periodic table while also typing out the elements. This required a lot of focus and concentration to ensure that I did not make any errors while typing out the names of each element.

To balance the need for speed and accuracy, I used several techniques during my training. First, I practiced typing out the names of the elements repeatedly to improve my typing speed and accuracy. This involved using various typing exercises to improve my typing speed and accuracy and practicing typing out the names of the elements under time pressure.

Second, I paid close attention to my typing speed and accuracy during my practice sessions. This involved monitoring my typing speed and accuracy carefully and making adjustments as necessary to maintain a balance between speed and accuracy. For example, if I noticed that I was making too many errors while typing, I would slow down and focus on accuracy instead of speed.

Finally, I also used a technique called visualization to help me balance the need for speed and accuracy. This involved visualizing myself typing out the names of the elements accurately and quickly in my mind, which helped me to improve my typing speed and accuracy during actual practice sessions.

In conclusion, balancing the need for speed with the need for accuracy in spelling was a challenging task, but with consistent practice and the use of various techniques such as repeated practice, monitoring my typing speed and accuracy, and visualization, I was able to achieve the fastest time to recite the periodic table while typing out the elements.

What advice would you give to someone who is interested in improving their memory skills, but doesn’t know where to start?

Improving your memory skills is a great way to enhance your learning and overall cognitive function. If you’re interested in improving your memory skills but don’t know where to start, there are several things you can do to get started.

Firstly, you can start by engaging in activities that challenge your memory on a daily basis. For instance, you can try to memorize phone numbers, addresses, or even simple to-do lists. You can also challenge yourself with memory games and exercises like crossword puzzles, Sudoku, or memory matching games. These activities can help you build and strengthen your memory skills gradually.

Another important step you can take to improve your memory skills is to develop good study habits. This involves paying attention to the material you’re studying and creating an organized system for taking notes and reviewing the information. Additionally, you can try to associate new information with existing knowledge or memories, as this can help you better retain and recall the information later on.

In addition to these steps, you may also want to consider adopting a healthy lifestyle that promotes brain health. This includes getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, eating a balanced and nutritious diet, and managing stress. These habits can help support healthy brain function and promote optimal memory performance.

Finally, it’s important to remember that improving your memory skills is a gradual process that requires consistent practice and dedication. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results – just keep practicing and incorporating memory-building activities into your daily routine, and you will eventually see improvement. With the right mindset and a commitment to practice and improvement, anyone can improve their memory skills and achieve their learning goals.

“Improving memory is not about having a photographic memory, it’s about learning to use the memory tools and techniques available to us, so we can effectively store and retrieve information when we need it the most.”

During the interview, Sancy Suraj discussed the inspiration behind pursuing this particular record, revealing that he has always had a fascination with science and chemistry. He also spoke about the challenges he faced during his training, including the need to balance speed with accuracy when typing out the elements. Sancy Suraj also shared some of the memory techniques he uses to commit new information to memory, such as the method of loci and the peg system.

In addition, Sancy Suraj talked about the impact that his memory training has had on other areas of his life, such as work and school. He mentioned that his ability to remember large amounts of information quickly and accurately has given him an edge in his professional and academic pursuits. Sancy Suraj also revealed that he plans to pursue other memory-related challenges and records in the future, including a potential attempt at the world record for memorizing the most decks of cards.

You’ve mentioned before that you use a variety of memory techniques. Can you give us an example of one technique you use and how it works?

I use a variety of memory techniques to help me remember large amounts of information, including the periodic table. One technique I use is called the “Method of Loci,” which is also known as the “Memory Palace” technique. This technique involves associating items or pieces of information with specific locations within a familiar environment, such as your house or a familiar route you take.

To use this technique, I would first visualize a familiar environment, such as my house, and mentally walk through it, identifying specific locations or objects along the way. Then, I would associate each element of the periodic table with a specific location within that environment. For example, I might associate hydrogen with my front door, helium with my mailbox, and so on.

By creating these strong associations between the elements and specific locations, I can easily recall each element in order by mentally walking through my memory palace and “seeing” each element in its designated location. This technique works by tapping into our brain’s natural ability to remember spatial information and visual imagery.

The Method of Loci is just one of many memory techniques that I use to help me remember large amounts of information. Each technique works in a slightly different way, and some may work better for certain types of information or learning styles than others. By experimenting with different techniques and finding what works best for you, you can develop a powerful memory that can help you achieve your learning and performance goals.

How has your memory training impacted other areas of your life, such as work or school?

My memory training has had a significant impact on various areas of my life, including work and school. Firstly, my memory training has enabled me to quickly and accurately recall important information, such as client details or important deadlines, which is crucial in my work as a memory coach and trainer.

Moreover, my memory training has allowed me to improve my academic performance by retaining and recalling large amounts of information quickly and accurately. I was able to use the same memory techniques that I use in my record-breaking attempts to excel in my academic pursuits, such as memorizing complex formulas or historical facts.

In addition, my memory training has helped me to develop better communication and presentation skills. By using memory techniques such as visualization and association, I am able to present complex information in a clear and engaging way. I have also been able to develop better listening skills as I can more easily recall important details from conversations and meetings.

Finally, my memory training has allowed me to enjoy my personal life more fully. I can remember important dates, events, and conversations more easily, which has strengthened my relationships with family and friends. Additionally, I have been able to learn and retain new skills and hobbies more easily, such as learning new languages or musical instruments.

What was going through your mind when you realized you had broken the record for the fastest time to recite the periodic table?

When I realized I had broken the record for the fastest time to recite the periodic table, a rush of emotions flooded over me. Firstly, I felt a sense of relief and pride that all my hard work and preparation had paid off. It was an incredible feeling to have achieved something that I had worked so hard towards.

At the same time, I felt a great sense of accomplishment and satisfaction that I had set a new record. Breaking records is always a rewarding experience, and it was particularly gratifying to have done so in a field that I am so passionate about.

I also felt a deep sense of gratitude towards all those who had supported me and helped me to achieve this record. The support of my family, friends, and colleagues has been instrumental in my success, and I felt incredibly thankful for their encouragement and belief in me.

Lastly, I was already thinking about what my next challenge would be. Breaking records is a never-ending pursuit, and I am always looking for new ways to push myself to the limit. Even as I was basking in the glow of my latest achievement, I was already thinking about what new memory challenge I could take on next.

Do you have any plans to pursue other memory-related records or challenges in the future?

Yes, I do have plans to pursue other memory-related records or challenges in the future. I am constantly looking for new ways to challenge myself and push the boundaries of what I am capable of. There are always new memory-related records and challenges out there waiting to be broken, and I am eager to take them on.

One area that I am particularly interested in is the field of speed cards, which involves memorizing a deck of cards as quickly as possible. This is a highly challenging and competitive field, and I believe that I have the skills and abilities to excel in it. I am also interested in exploring new memory techniques and strategies that could help me to improve my performance even further.

In addition to pursuing new records and challenges, I am also passionate about teaching others about memory techniques and how to improve their own memory skills. I believe that everyone has the potential to develop a better memory, and I want to help others unlock their full potential in this area. I am always looking for opportunities to share my knowledge and experience with others, whether through workshops, seminars, or online resources.

What message would you like to send to others who are interested in pursuing their own records or challenging themselves in new ways?

To anyone who is interested in pursuing their own records or challenging themselves in new ways, I would like to send a message of encouragement and support. I truly believe that we are all capable of achieving amazing things if we are willing to put in the time, effort, and dedication required to make it happen.

One of the key things that has helped me in my own journey is having a clear goal and a plan for how to achieve it. It is important to set realistic, achievable goals, but also to push yourself to go beyond what you think you are capable of. Don’t be afraid to fail or make mistakes along the way, as these can be valuable learning experiences that help you to grow and improve.

Another important factor is to find a community of people who share your interests and can provide you with support and encouragement along the way. Whether this is through online forums, local clubs or organizations, or simply connecting with like-minded individuals, having a support network can make all the difference in helping you to stay motivated and focused.

Finally, remember that the most important thing is to enjoy the journey itself, rather than just focusing on the end result. The process of working towards a goal and overcoming challenges along the way can be incredibly rewarding and fulfilling, and can help you to develop important skills and qualities that will benefit you in all areas of your life.

So, if you are interested in pursuing your own records or challenging yourself in new ways, I would encourage you to take the first step and start exploring your options. With hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn and grow, there is no limit to what you can achieve.

“Challenging ourselves to reach new heights isn’t just about achieving a record or breaking a personal best – it’s about discovering what we are truly capable of and finding the strength and resilience to keep pushing ourselves towards our goals, no matter how big or small.”

Sancy Suraj’s journey towards mastering the periodic table is a testament to the power of memory training and the human mind’s incredible potential. His dedication, hard work, and use of memory techniques have enabled him to set multiple memory-related records and inspire others to challenge themselves in new ways. We are honored to have had the opportunity to speak with Sancy Suraj and share his story with our readers, and we hope that it will inspire others to explore their own memory abilities and pursue their own records and challenges.