Head and neck mnemonic

Parasympathetic ganglia of the head and the nerve each belongs to

The mnemonic

Come Play Soccer Outdoors

What each word stands for

  • ComeCiliary ganglion (oculomotor, III)
  • PlayPterygopalatine ganglion (facial, VII)
  • SoccerSubmandibular ganglion (facial, VII)
  • OutdoorsOtic ganglion (glossopharyngeal, IX)

Why it matters clinically

Helps trace the secretomotor supply to the lacrimal, salivary and parotid glands and to the pupil.

Where it stops being reliable

Does not cover the sensory or sympathetic roots of these ganglia.

Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.

More mnemonics

Common questions

What is the Head and neck mnemonic?

Come Play Soccer Outdoors. It helps you recall: Parasympathetic ganglia of the head and the nerve each belongs to.

What does "Come" stand for?

Ciliary ganglion (oculomotor, III)

What does "Play" stand for?

Pterygopalatine ganglion (facial, VII)

What does "Soccer" stand for?

Submandibular ganglion (facial, VII)

What are all the parts of the Come Play Soccer Outdoors mnemonic?

Come: Ciliary ganglion (oculomotor, III); Play: Pterygopalatine ganglion (facial, VII); Soccer: Submandibular ganglion (facial, VII); Outdoors: Otic ganglion (glossopharyngeal, IX).

Which topic does this mnemonic belong to?

It belongs to Head and neck in Anatomy.

Where does this mnemonic stop being reliable?

Does not cover the sensory or sympathetic roots of these ganglia.

How is this useful clinically?

Helps trace the secretomotor supply to the lacrimal, salivary and parotid glands and to the pupil.

How do I make this mnemonic stick?

Say it aloud, write it from memory tomorrow, then again in a week. Then test yourself on a Anatomy question about Head and neck.

Is this a standard mnemonic?

It is a teaching aid written or adapted by our team. Some resemble ones students share informally. Check any fact that matters in a standard source.