Aspirants can harness cognitive techniques to improve memory retention for UPSC by employing strategies like spaced repetition and mnemonics. Spaced repetition enhances long-term retention by revisiting information at increasing intervals. Creating acronyms or memorable phrases can help in recalling complex terms or concepts. Engaging in active learning through teaching others or self-quizzing can reinforce knowledge. Additionally, utilizing visual aids, such as charts and diagrams, can facilitate understanding. Mind maps organize information hierarchically, highlighting relationships between topics. Adopting these methods tasks candidates not only with memorization but also with deeper comprehension.