The Major System Explained
The Major System is a phonetic technique for converting numbers into words. It's been used for over 300 years and forms the foundation of all advanced number memorization.
How It Works
Each digit (0-9) is assigned consonant sounds:
| Digit | Sounds | Memory Aid |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | s, z, soft c | **Z**ero |
| 1 | t, d, th | **T** has 1 downstroke |
| 2 | n | **N** has 2 downstrokes |
| 3 | m | **M** has 3 downstrokes |
| 4 | r | Fou**R** |
| 5 | l | **L** is Roman 50 |
| 6 | j, sh, ch, soft g | **J** looks like 6 |
| 7 | k, hard c, hard g | **K** looks like two 7s |
| 8 | f, v | **F** in cursive looks like 8 |
| 9 | p, b | **P** is mirror of 9 |
Vowels (a, e, i, o, u) and W, H, Y don't count — they're "free" letters you use to form words.
Examples
- 42 = R-N = "rain" or "rhino" or "run"
- 17 = T-K = "taco" or "tick" or "attic"
- 1776 = T-K-CH-J = "to catch joy" or "take cash"
Why It Works
Instead of remembering abstract digits, you remember vivid images. "Rain" is much easier to visualize and remember than "42."
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