Acting is a passion that requires a great amount of discipline, and learning how to memorize lines is just one of many skills that every great actor must master. While some roles may only have one or two quick lines, for some parts, it could require memorizing close to an entire script. While every actor has their own methods for memorization, there are some tried and true methods for getting lines to stick.
How to Memorize Lines: 6 Simple Tips
For current acting students, alums of NYFA, and actors trying to find their big break, auditions and performing are a normal part of life. But how do they memorize so many lines? Experienced actors like NYFA Guest Speaker Carey Mulligan address that, of course, preparation will vary from role to role. However, there are some best practices to help performers learn how to memorize lines.
Here are some broad go-to tips.
1. Run lines with someone.
One of the most important investments an actor can have is a network of other actors. When it comes to running lines and preparing for a role, this also applies. Running lines with another actor is one of the most well-known methods for memorizing lines. The key is to run lines with someone who is actually an actor— not a friend from down the street. Working with another actor holds both individuals accountable. By allowing them to coach each other and read stage directions, each actor can truly absorb the script.
As an alternative to having a partner to run lines, there’s the app Rehearsal Pro. The app allows users to highlight lines in the app, record other characters’ lines, and use it as a teleprompter.
2. Write your lines out.
Instead of typing out lines, try writing them by hand. This method works well for long scenes with speeches. Writing lines out by hand forces the mind to connect to the action of writing the lines down and seeing the lines. Actors should focus on writing their lines out only. It helps each performer focus on themself without the distraction of other actors’ lines.
NYFA Guest Speaker Kevin Nealon, who has experience in writing and acting, talked about the value of handwritten notes in a recent episode of the Q&A List. During his experience writing for Saturday Night Live, Nealon recalled a time before computers and jotting down notes in the writing room. He also talked about the importance of learning the format of a show and trying a few different approaches when preparing for a standup routine or role.
3. Quiz yourself.
Take things one line at a time, using a scrap piece of paper to cover up everything but one line. Continue to read the same line over and over again. Then, try reciting the line without looking at it. When the line is memorized move on to the next line and start the process over again. While repetitive, practice makes perfect. When preparing for his role in Black Santiago Club, Sèdo Tossou read the script “time and time again.”
Tossou recognized what most experienced actors know: practice makes perfect.
4. Go for a walk or take a nap.
In an article published by “The Chicago Tribune,” Cindy Gold of Northwestern University suggests that after looking at lines, it is helpful to either go for a walk or take a nap. While resting, information just processed moves from short-term memory to long-term recall, making it possible to recall things easier. When walking, exercising muscles helps with memorization. NYFA Acting for Film Alyssa Miller, Forgiven (2021) and Fathers (2022), also encourages aspiring actors to “do the work and have fun.”
5. Use a mnemonic device.
Think of the mnemonic device as a shortcut. A mnemonic device to help actors remember more difficult lines. Try writing down the first letter of every word in the line. Then, look at those letters to help jog the memory of the line. For example, if a line was, “See you later,” a mnemonic device could be:
S
Y
L
The three letters are easier to remember than the specific line, and will likely help trigger the words.
6. Learn the cue lines.
Not only should aspiring and working actors learn their lines, but they should also learn cue lines as well — these are the lines read by one actor that lead into another. By knowing the cue lines, actors will be more prompt and can deliver their lines in a timely fashion. Knowing cue lines is also more professional. In an interview with NYFA, Cinematography alum Charlotte Dobre stressed the importance of professionalism for up-and-coming actors and content creators.
“Professionalism in the entertainment industry is very important. Productions want trained actors (not just talented people), and classes at NYFA were very much like a day on set.”
Charlotte Dobre, from the popular YouTube channel of the same name, used her skills and experience to create her own YouTube channel, recently earning over one million subscribers.
Improve Acting and Auditioning Skills at NYFA
Interested in learning more than your lines? The New York Film Academy offers a variety of degrees — such as Master of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, and Associate of Fine Arts — and programs for students who are interested in acting for film.