The simplest and most practical basis which can be selected is the idea
of choosing a SOUND to represent each one of the ten digits. These
sounds can in turn be indicated by various consonants of the alphabet.
By combining the ten digits we are able to make all figures, and by
similarly combining the SOUNDS we can easily convert the figures which
we wish to remember into words. The words will represent objects and
can easily be impressed upon the brain. Your use of this idea is based
upon your becoming thoroughly familiar with the ten SOUNDS representing
the ten digits.
By combining these sounds corresponding to the arrangement of the
digits, words can be formed to represent the figure. The word can be
remembered. It has a meaning. It can be visualized and recalled, then
easily translated into the corresponding digits.
Here are the ten digits and their corresponding SOUNDS. The sounds are
indicated by the letters. Use the sound as spoken in the word, as "T"
in "Ten." The sound used is always the same as in the spoken word, but
not as a single letter. Not the sound "en" as a letter, but the sound
of "N" in "Nell." Note this difference; it is important. Following is
the Number Code:
[Illustration: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0
T N M R L J K F P C]
Note carefully this cut in which the digit and letter used to represent
the sound is made into a combined figure. This places the digit and
the corresponding sound into your mind together. The picture of the
combination should be impressed by concentration. Look at the digit
letter and then close your eyes and see the same picture in your
mind's eye. Exaggerate them. Take a pencil and paper and draw them for
yourself. Note that the second letter N if stood on its side is 2, in
the picture it is half way, which will suggest both to your mind. The
M and 3 are the same. Become familiar with these so that there is no
possibility of hesitation in recalling the SOUND for each digit.
The T and 1 are simple. The 2 and N and the 3 and M have been
explained. The 6 turned to the left makes a J. The K for 7 is made of
two 7s back to back, one leaning against the other. The P for 9 is
turned as the 6 and J. Dwell a moment on this picture and you will know
the Code.
There are other associations which will help to fix the digits and
their corresponding sounds in mind.
T is selected for 1 because both are made with one down stroke. One
down stroke with a short cross stroke makes the T.
N, for 2 is the same, two down strokes make the N.