My memory is normally horrible. xD However, it does help to write things down. For formulas I assume you mean like math and science? I used to love going and buying that stack of sticky notes that's different colors and taking different color markers, and then like on a board or on the wall and color coding all my formulas, that made them easy to find. I also included the lesson and what page I found the formula on, that way if on a test or some thing you need information on it, it was easy to find.
As for analyzing a piece of writing, if its on paper I usually use a highlighter, and if its on the computer you can make a power point or word document with pictures and notes, I used to illustrate out my notes. This is great for visual learners, if you're an audio learner create song lyrics using the information you need to know, pick an instrumental you like and put that song with your notes, hum it till you remember the lyrics.
Just do some research on what type of learner you are and what's best suited for those type of people, then get creative and twist their ideas to suit you and your needs better.
