Editor's note

Why is it two people can witness the same event together but later have different memories of what happened? How different people focus their attention on an event will affect what they remember, says Julian Matthews. But your long-term memory can be helped by many things, including a cup of coffee.

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Deputy Editor: Science + Technology

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Why two people see the same thing but have different memories

Julian Matthews, Monash University

We all know memory isn’t perfect but how different people focus their attention on an event will affect what they remember.

The beach is a common setting for Australian novels, which often capture its darker side. boxer_bob/flickr

Ten great Australian beach reads set at the beach

Liz Ellison, CQUniversity Australia

While tourism campaigns often portray the beach as an idyllic, isolated haven, many of our beach stories depict it as a darker, more complex place. Here are ten worth reading.

Do you want to learn how to play guitar? Write down why that’s important to you. Kelly Sikkema/Unsplash

Making New Year’s resolutions personal could actually make them stick

Bernice Plant, Monash University

We often set generic goals, such as to exercise more. Because these don't necessarily tap into our personal motivations, we may not follow through. Goals that are meaningful to you are more effective.

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