So you want to become a Hafiz? That’s amazing! Learning how to memorize Quran fast is one of the greatest journeys you can ever make, and it is not as scary as it sounds. Your brain, regardless of age, 10 or 50 years old, is far more memorizing than you likely assume. The secret to how to memorize Quran fast lies in having the right methods and persisting with it.
These Quran memorization techniques have helped thousands become Huffaz.
Last year, I had encountered a child in my local masjid who memorized Surah Al-Baqarah within a span of eight months. He was not a genius of sorts whose memory was super powered. He was simply having a good system and he lived by it day in day out. The trick to how to memorize Quran fast is that consistency with the right way is all it takes.
I would like to tell you all I have learned about how to memorize Quran fast in the most effective way possible. We will discuss various Quran memorization methods, tips and tricks on various types of learners, and some spiritual tips which will make your journey come a lot easier.
Why Learn How to Memorize Quran Fast? (Assign Meaning and Purpose)
And then, before we kick off to the how, we can discuss the why. The reason behind the action you are undertaking will ensure that it becomes much easier to persist whenever the going gets rough. And believe me, there shall be a hard day.
The Quran narrates to us itself the importance of the Quran:
وَلَقَدْ يَسَّرْنَا الْقُرْآنَ لِلذِّكْرِ فَهَلْ مِن مُّدَّكِرٍ
We have certainly made the Qur’an easy to remember—so is there anyone who will take heed?
(Surah Al-Qamar, 54:17)
This is what is quoted four times in Surah Al-Qamar. Allah repeats something so that we may pay attention – this is key to understanding how to memorize Quran fast. He is informing us that Quran is easy to memorize, He made it that way. So when you feel, “I can’t do this,” remember: Allah tells us He made the Qur’an easier to remember, and He helps the one who tries.
The prizes of memorizing are also unbelievable. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) informed us of the respect accorded to the memorizer:
يُقَالُ لِصَاحِبِ الْقُرْآنِ اقْرَأْ وَارْتَقِ وَرَتِّلْ كَمَا كُنْتَ تُرَتِّلُ فِي الدُّنْيَا فَإِنَّ مَنْزِلَتَكَ عِنْدَ آخِرِ آيَةٍ تَقْرَأُ بِهَا
It will be said to the one who memorized the Qur’an: “Recite and rise, and recite as you used to recite in the world. Your rank will be at the last ayah you recite
(Jami` at‑Tirmidhi, Hadith 2914)
Think about that for a second. Each verse that you have learned is literally elevating you in Paradise (Jannah). How cool is that?
How to Memorize Quran Fast: Get Your Intentions Right First
It is something you will not believe, but the secret of how to memorize Quran fast begins even before you take the book. It starts in your heart.
What you intend to do is of importance to you than you could have thought. You may not find it easy in case you are memorizing to prove something to others or even to please your parents (although making your parents happy is also good). Nevertheless, when you are doing it in the name of Allah, a miracle occurs. Memorization is just more readily clicked.
Du ae, pray with all sincerity before each session. Pray Allah that it may be easy to you, to enable you to know what you are memorising and to make it remain in your heart. This is not only spiritual guidance but it is really effective since once your heart is in the right place your mind will follow shortly.
The best way to memorize Quran is to start with sincere intention.
Also Read: Last 10 Surahs of Quran: Complete Guide with Meanings & Benefits
Best Time to Memorize Quran: Optimize Your Brain
Hours are not created equal with regards to memorization. There are periods that your brain takes in maximum information, as a sponge and there are times that it is functioning on fumes.
For those learning how to memorize Quran fast, the best time to memorize Quran for most people is immediately after the Fajr prayer. It is a fresh mind, the world is silent and there are few distractions. And there is a kind of spiritual strength in beginning your day with the Allah words. It gives the overall idea of what is to come.
In case morning does not suit you, perhaps you have school very early, then pick your own high time. There are those who are night owls and their brains perform better after Isha. It is just necessary to find your time and keep to it day by day. Same time, same place. Your brain is addicted to routine and familiarity, and a standard which will begin redirecting itself into the mode of memorization every time you sit at your familiar place.
Creating a Quran memorization schedule helps build consistency.
Understanding Your Learning Style (Auditory, Tactile, Visual)
People learn in different ways. Some are auditory learners who benefit from audio-based Quran learning. Others are visual learners who need to see the Mushaf. Tactile learners benefit from writing practice using the Lawh method. Understanding your learning style helps you choose the right Quran memorization methods.
The Repetition Method (Tikrar): Power of Repetition
Alright, we shall have a look at actual techniques. When learning how to memorize Quran fast, the oldest and most efficient technique is Tikrar (the repetition method Quran scholars have used for centuries). It sounds boring, I know. However, here is the point–it works very well.
The simple concept is the following: you read one verse (Ayah) and view it approximately 10-20 times. Indeed, take your time, watch each word, each letter, each mark of vowel. Then you attempt to memorize it 10 times again. In case of an error, then come back to looking at it again. Just carry on with this until the verse becomes as natural as it slips off your tongue, without much thought of that verse.
In fact a study conducted at the University of Waterloo actually discovered that reading aloud assists better in putting words in your long-term memory than reading without speaking. Then don’t look at the page, be able to recite it. Listen to what you are saying with your mouth. This forms a phenomenon known scientifically as a production effect-it is easier to remember things when you use more than one of your senses.
There are people who adopt a technique known as 6446 technique. The 6446 method works as follows: read the verse 6 times while looking, then 4 times without looking, then 4 times looking again, then 6 times without looking. This creates strong neural pathways for retention. Others like the 10-3 technique; 10 looks and 3 no looks. Experience and experiment with various methods and find what works with you.
The 3×3 Linking Method
The following is one of the issues that nearly all people encounter during the memorizing process. You learn verse 1 perfectly. Then verse 2. Then verse 3. However, once you start reciting the three of them together, you lose the linkage of verse 1 and verse 2. Sound familiar?
This is solved perfectly by the 3×3 method of the Linking Method. You have to memorize verse 1, and then verse 2. Then three times, before passing to verse 3, you repeat verse 1-2 with it. This is essential for how to memorize Quran fast – it connects verses in your mind. And then you know verse 3, and repeat them all. You continue to make chains of this.
It is a method of avoiding that vexing process of knowing well individual verses, but not being able to put them together. The relations of verses are as significant as the verses.
Three-Day Memorization Method for Solid Retention
In case you want your memorization to be solid rock–that is, really rock-solid–then go to the three day technique. It works really well, but it takes extra effort at the start. This method helps you memorize Quran quickly with solid retention.
On the first day, you repeat your new portion (your daily Sabak) three times (morning, afternoon and night) approximately 90-100 times. Yes, you read that right. Nearly a hundred times. All while looking at the text. On day two, you repeat page 30 three times, each time it is in three sessions but you also commenced a new portion with the process of day one. Day three, now repeat the pattern and by this time the initial part must be memorized to an extent that you are able to recite it even when you are asleep.
You want to recite at least 200 times, before you find that you think you have done a page. That is a big thing, but with divided into three days and several sessions, it is completely possible. And what is the quality of memorization you obtain? Absolutely worth it.
The Best Way to Start Memorising Quran
This is one of the questions I keep on hearing. Shall i begin with Juz 30 (also known as Juz Amma), as it is shorter? Or shall i commence by Surah Al-Baqarah as it is the longest? Somewhere in the middle?
For Quran memorization for beginners, starting with Juz 30 is recommended. These Hifz tips for beginners will help you build confidence quickly.
To be honest, there is no correct solution. Various scholars suggest various methods in accordance with their experience. There are those who argue that one may begin with Juz 30 and go back since chances are that you are already familiar with some of those surahs during prayers, including Surah Al-Fatiha and Surah Al-Ikhlas, and thus you get confidence. Others tell him to be sure, first to work at Surah Al-Baqarah–have the worst of it out of the way, and then the rest is easy by comparison.
It even has what is known as the Ottoman Method whereby one learns the last page of each Juz (plural: Ajzaa) in sequence, then the second-last page, then the third-last page, and so on and so on until you have managed to memorize the entire Quran. It is a bit like hacking a mountain off on every angle simultaneous.
Here is what I think about how to memorize Quran fast. You see, when you are a complete beginner, particularly, a young one, it is reasonable to begin with shorter surahs. For easy Quran memorization, starting with shorter surahs builds confidence. Build your confidence. Get some wins under your belt. Experience that sense of accomplishment of a surah. Then move to the bigger ones. Surah Al-A’la and other short surahs in Juz 30 are perfect starting points.
Others even swear by beginning with Surah Ar-Rahman, Al-Qamar or Al-Mursalat since the surahs have repetition of parts in various instances. Such repetitions will help to memorize more quickly and even to have your general memory improved in the future regarding the surahs. One of them claimed to have had a 360 degree difference in their memorization capacity after they had finished with Surah Ar-Rahman. Pretty interesting, right? Some also recommend Surah Yaseen, Al-Mulk, and Al-Waqiah as important surahs to memorize early.
Visual Techniques for Hifz That Work
There was this thing that happened with my friend and it transformed the whole game of memorizing in him. The same Mushaf, same print, same everything–he was ever using the same copy of the Quran. Why? The reason was that his brain began to photograph the pages.
In time, he had literally felt in his mind-eye where each verse was on the page. On the top right, bottom left, centre of the page, he knew the visual format. He was, in fact, retrieving mental images of those pages when he recited them by memory.
These visual techniques for Hifz are especially effective for visual learners. Get one Mushaf and adhere to it. It is not necessary to alternate between various prints and apps. Allow your brain to create such visual map.
The other trick of using an image involves sketching simple illustrations or icons alongside verses in order to memorize the contents. When a verse mentions about mountains, then draw a small mountain. A wave should be drawn in case it refers to water. This may be childish but our brains are designed to retain pictures much better than abstract words. Use that to your advantage.
Audio-Based Quran Learning for Busy People
All are not able to spend hours with a book. Probably you have school, homework, chores, and a million other things that are competing with your time. And that is where audio-based learning comes in as your best-friend.
Audio-based Quran learning is perfect for busy individuals. Listen to a Qari (reciter) – find one whose speed suits you by nature in breathing. Listen to that surah on your way to work, when you are doing chores, at breakfast. Just let it play on repeat. The musical tune and the beat will be getting lodged in your head virtually without any effort.
The Companions (Sahaba) of the Prophet widely used this oratory tradition. It is reported from Abu Umamah (رضي الله عنه) (as a companion’s statement):
“Allah does not punish a heart that has contained the Qur’an.”
(Reported in Musannaf Ibn Abi Shaybah; also mentioned by later scholars as a mawqūf report.)
This demonstrates that the initial manner in which the Quran was preserved up to the very onset, was through oral tradition; that is, by hearing and repeating.
Here is a secret: you should listen to the reciter of your choice first but not until you get a new portion to memorize. This will help you to have the pronunciation at the beginning. When you get the pronunciation of something wrongly memorized, it is a nightmare to rectify it at a later stage. The first time should be the right time.
Many students also use Quran memorization apps to supplement their learning.
The Chunking Method for Long Verses
Some verses are really long. Like, intimidatingly long. This is the case with Ayat al-Kursi, e.g. or part of the verses in Surah Al-Baqarah. Taking a look at them will make you wish to give up even without having taken any action.
Enter the chunking method. The chunking method Quran verses into smaller parts makes memorization manageable. Rather than attempting to gulp the entire verse at a time, cut it in smaller and smaller sections depending on what the verse is saying. Take Ayat al-Kursi and cut it into four or five pieces. First memorize: ٱللَّهُ لَآ إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا هُو ٱلْحَىُّ ٱلْقَيُّومُ. Perfect that. Then move to the next phrase. After you have all the chunks you have to join them together like a puzzle.
Long verses are far less frightening. You do not remember one great thing: you remember a number of little things and relate them. Much more manageable.
Writing Practice (Lawh Method)
This is one of those things that may appear retro in the era of digital existence, but it is a highly effective method. Memorize the verses that you are writing by hand.
Even in conventional Quran schools, the students used to write the daily lesson on a wooden board known as a Lawh. The actual writing is a use of what is known as your kinesthetic memory- memory by movement and touch. Your hand recalls the movement of the writing of every word.
In case you have a verse that stubbornly refuses to take root, that is, whenever you repeat it a million times it can’t stick, you may write it three times. You’ll notice a difference. It has something to do with writing more slowly and carefully that makes the words scarce deeper in your memory.
Individual students even rewrite whole pages of Quran by heart in a journal in order to challenge themselves. This is a graduate level but it demonstrates the power of writing to memorize.
Understanding the Meaning (Tafsir)
This is colossal and I believe that this is one of the least considered factors of fast memorization. Once you know what verse means, you understand how to memorize Quran fast becomes easier.
Think about it. It would be very difficult, when somebody gave you an indiscriminate series of sounds to memorize, such as blarg nifto quex pondo. However, when these sound were words, and the words were used to create a narrative, or get across a message you knew, it would be much easier to memorize.
The Quran contains wonderful narratives, compelling messages, and wonderful descriptions. Having known that certain verse is talking about Paradise, or the history of Prophet Musa, or the regulation concerning how you should treat your parents, your brain has something to attach to. Surahs with stories like Surah Yusuf are easier to remember because of the narrative.
This is the place when it is useful to know Tafsir (explanation). You do not have to grow into a scholar, but having a slight idea on what you are memorizing will help you save a lot of time. When your mind comprehends the context it naturally anticipates the next thing to occur.
The Role of Tajweed in Memorization
I understand that rules of Tajweed might appear quite dull in the beginning. Madd and Ghunnah and all those rules may be like some additional labor when you simply desire to memorize. The point here however is that proper Tajweed does not increase the memorization difficulty, on the contrary it eases it.
In case you are reciting with the right Tajweed, the Quran is naturally musical. Patterns are easier to remember when compared to random sounds by your brain. Its elongations, the pauses, the nasal sounds, they bring a stream that brings you to the next verse.
Added to this, you will have to unlearn bad habits when you are older, should you memorize now with incorrect pronunciation. Much more difficult than learning at the first instance. It is actually worth having a qualified teacher ensure your Tajweed.
Spaced Repetition and Review: Your Best Friend
All right, this is one of those things that make the difference between people who become successful in memorizing something and those who give up. Review. Review. And more review.
One of the sayings of the Quran teachers is: New memorization is silver, but review is gold. You are able to memorize 10 pages within a week, and in case you do not review it, it will pass out of your memory in a matter of one month.
Spaced repetition Quran review is the key to long-term retention. These Quran retention strategies will prevent forgetting.
The Quran warns us about this:
وَقَالَ الرَّسُولُ يَا رَبِّ إِنَّ قَوْمِي اتَّخَذُوا هَٰذَا الْقُرْآنَ مَهْجُورًا
The Messenger will say:
“My Lord, my people treated this Qur’an as something they abandoned.
(Surah Al-Furqan, 25:30)
We do not want to be any of those who forget the Quran having memorized it. Prophet (ﷺ) has likened the Quran to a camel:
تَعَاهَدُوا هَذَا الْقُرْآنَ فَوَالَّذِي نَفْسُ مُحَمَّدٍ بِيَدِهِ لَهُوَ أَشَدُّ تَفَلُّتًا مِنَ الْإِبِلِ فِي عُقُلِهَا
“Keep refreshing the Qur’an, for it escapes faster than a camel breaks free from its rope.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 5033)
Reviews should be done by spacing. You are expected to review your new lesson an hour after you have memorized it, before going to bed, and the following morning. You can spread out the reviews more as the days go on- but never cease to review.
An effective system that will work: separate what you have memorized into new, recent and old. Work on your new portion every day, and revise what you have begged to remember in the last few days, as well as some revision of earlier portions.
Take Breaks: Rest Your Brain
This would be paradoxical in an article on memorizing fast, but breaks actually accelerate the process. It takes time to process the information in your brain and consolidate it. When you attempt to cram several hours without taking a break, then you will burn out and remember less.
Attempt to divide your studies into sessions. Perhaps half an hour or so of intensive memorization, followed by a brief pause – walk around, have a drink, repeat wudu. Thereafter, you should come back again. Your brain will thank you.
Our minds were created by Allah to rest. It is only prudent to work with such a design and not to work against it.
Find a Teacher or Memorization Partner
Here is one that can bring a huge difference: accountability. When you have someone to recite to, whether it is the teacher, the parent, the friend, or the sibling, you feel obliged to do the work.
You will also make sure you are ready when you know that the person will test you tomorrow. It’s human nature. Momorization is also good since you encourage one another when you are having a hard day.
You would want to find a qualified Quran teacher preferably online. Online Quran memorization with a qualified teacher is very effective. They will help you fix your bad habits before they become normal, help you maintain a schedule so you are on schedule and give you that outside checking mechanism that comes in very handy.
Quran Retention Strategies: Dealing with Forgetfulness
I would like to speak about the elephant in the room. You WILL forget things. It happens to everyone. Don’t let it discourage you.
You forget a verse you think you knew so well, you need not scourge yourself. It is just a matter of returning to it and reading it over again and moving on. Quran is a companion all through life. Seasons will be when you can memorize better and seasons when you are rustier. That’s normal.
The trick here is never to give up on what you have memorised. Although you may be able to only do a little of reviewing each day, do it that little. Always consistency rather than intensity.
Easy Quran Memorization Techniques
This is what I would like to present to you a couple of practical strategies which have proven to be very effective among students.
The former of these, which I have already mentioned,–commencing with Juz 30. This is a confidence-building thing since you are already familiar with a few of those surahs. It is like having an advantage in the race.
And the other method is to know by heart, of which of the surahs you will need the most in prayer, first of all Al-Mulk, Ar-Rahman, Al-Waqiah, As-Sajdah, and Al-Kahf. In this manner, you can memorize something that can be used at once. You begin to use it on a daily basis, and it becomes a habit.
To the tactile learners, those that learn through touch and actions, use prayer beads (tasbeeh) during memorizing. Repeat every verse thrice incorporating a bead with each repetition. The first round through viewing the text, the second one without viewing. The bodily action assists the words to be embedded in mind.
Must Watch: How to Easily Memorize The QURAN – Even If You’re Busy! | Assim Al Hakeem
Making Memorization Fun and Engaging
Memorizing does not necessarily need to be an ordeal. It can be made fun and gamed. Compete with yourself and improve your time. Monitor your improvement in a chart and observe it increase. You should reward yourself whenever you achieve milestones.
Playing Quran recitations even in the background throughout the day is very helpful to kids but to be honest to adults as well. It develops familiarity when it comes to the sounds and rhythms before you actually attempt to memorize. It is being soaked by your brain passively.
The Spiritual Side of Quran Memorization
I would like to go round to some of the points I made in the beginning. There is no memorizing method that can make you memorize better than your relationship with Allah.
Stay away from sins. Clean up your tongue on backbiting and lying. Make lots of dua. Give charity. These may not appear to be related to memorization but they are. True heart absorbs the Quran easier. The scholars have never failed to stress on this relationship between spiritual condition and capacity to remember the knowledge.
And learn living by what you know. The Quran is not only to recite it but to do. When you live what you are memorizing, the words take a greater hold in you.
Final Tips on How to Memorize Quran Fast
Dressing up like a Hafiz will not come in one day. Any person that tells you otherwise is selling stuff. But it is not like an unattainable dream of special people. Ordinary people have the Quran in their memory annually. Kids do it. Adults do it. Busy people who have families do it.
It is not a question of whether or not you can do it. Now you know how to memorize Quran fast – the question is whether you WILL do it. Can you appear on a daily basis even when you do not feel like it? Will you come through the rough stages? You will have faith in Allah that he will help you since he said that the Quran is easy to remember?
Start today. Not tomorrow, not next week. Today. Even if it’s just one verse. That verse is the start of something outstanding.
May Allah facilitate the way to you, and make the Quran always in your heart, and increase your ranks in Paradise (Jannah) with each letter you know by heart. Ameen.