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Anatomy Mnemonics
11 proven memory aids to help you master anatomy. From cranial nerves to the brachial plexus.
Cranial Nerves
Cranial Nerves Names Mnemonic
"On Old Olympus Towering Tops A Finn And German Viewed Some Hops"
The classic mnemonic for remembering the twelve cranial nerves in order from CN I to CN XII. Each word corresponds to the first letter of each cranial nerve, making it one of the most essential mnemonics in anatomy.
Cranial Nerve Types Mnemonic
"Some Say Marry Money But My Brother Says Big Brains Matter Most"
This mnemonic helps remember whether each cranial nerve is sensory (S), motor (M), or both/mixed (B). Essential for understanding cranial nerve function and predicting clinical deficits.
Cranial Nerve Foramina Mnemonic
"Carl Only Sits Still On Rotating Ovens In Jolly Homes"
Remembers the skull foramina through which cranial nerves exit. Each word represents a foramen, from cribriform plate (CN I) to hypoglossal canal (CN XII). Critical for understanding skull base anatomy.
Extraocular Muscle Innervation Mnemonic
"LR6 SO4 rest 3"
The simplest way to remember which cranial nerves innervate the six extraocular muscles. Lateral rectus by CN VI (abducens), superior oblique by CN IV (trochlear), all others by CN III (oculomotor).
Muscles
Rotator Cuff Muscles Mnemonic
"SITS"
The four rotator cuff muscles that stabilize the glenohumeral joint and rotate the humerus. These muscles form a "cuff" around the shoulder joint head and are commonly injured in falls and repetitive overhead activities.
Erector Spinae Muscles Mnemonic
"I Love Standing (or I Like Sex)"
The three columns of erector spinae muscles from lateral to medial: Iliocostalis, Longissimus, Spinalis. These muscles run along the spine and are primary extensors of the vertebral column.
Scalene Muscles Relations Mnemonic
"The Subclavian Vein is ANTErior to the ANTErior scalene"
Remembers the anatomical relationship between scalene muscles and subclavian vessels/brachial plexus. Critical for understanding thoracic outlet syndrome and central line placement.
Hand Intrinsic Muscles Mnemonic
"All For One And One For All (AFL-OAF)"
Remembers which intrinsic hand muscles are innervated by ulnar vs median nerve. Crucial for understanding hand weakness patterns in nerve injuries.
Bones
Carpal Bones Mnemonic
"So Long To Pinky, Here Comes The Thumb"
Remembers the eight carpal bones of the wrist in order from lateral to medial, proximal row first then distal row. Essential for understanding wrist anatomy, fractures, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
Tarsal Bones Mnemonic
"Tiger Cubs Need MILC (Medial, Intermediate, Lateral Cuneiform)"
Remembers the seven tarsal bones of the foot. The talus articulates with the tibia, and the calcaneus forms the heel. The navicular and cuneiforms form the medial arch.