Spaced Repetition Learning Technique (Step-by-Step Guide)

In the spaced repetition technique, one uses increasing review intervals to keep important lessons fresh in the learners’ minds. This technique aims to keep concepts crisp while improving comprehension.

The concept of spaced repetition was initially introduced in the book Psychology of Study by Cecil Alec Mace. Others were captivated by his idea of repetition with timing, which sparked additional experiments and studies. The all-purpose spaced repetition exercise known as the “Leitner system” was created by Sebastian Leitner in 1973. 

Multiple methods of exam preparation are suited for different personality types. Some people succeed by daily studying the content in the weeks leading up to the test. Others cram as much material as they can the night before the exam by staying up late.

The Spaced repetition strategy, one of the best-known methods of strengthening your memory, stands above all these methods. 

Ineffective teaching methods also result in unretained information and learning gaps. This strategy ensures that no part of the necessary information is left out. 

Are you interested in learning a unique technique to remember information for exams? This article discusses how spaced repetition can help you quickly improve your memory and recall information. 

Continue reading to learn more about how to implement this technique in your life.

Spaced repetition system – How it works

The Spaced Repetition system reinforces previously learned concepts and covers any learning gap. Constant use of this technique ensures that the subject matter is thoroughly retained and understood.  

A Space Repetition strategy aims to make you so familiar with a piece of information that you don’t have to strain your memory when it comes time to use it. 

For example, a person gets so accustomed to the native language that they don’t have to jog their memory every time they try to structure a sentence. 

The use of spaced repetition technique removes any learning gaps from your memory. Through the utilization of the “Spaced out” technique, the information retention capability of the brain increases. 

Like any muscle, the brain benefits greatly from regular exercise. When a piece of information is reviewed repeatedly and consistently, the muscle memory retains it for a long time. 

The Spaced Repetition technique activates brain cells that are responsible for the creation of long-term memories. Suppose a person is exposed to the same information at regular intervals. In that case, their memory can hold onto it for a more extended period. 

Additionally, when we encounter the same material often, our brain views it as more significant than when we just learn a lesson once. Keep reading to learn more about the best intervals and strategies for Spaced Retention learning technique. 

Best-spaced repetition intervals

Dr. Piotr Wozniak researched Spaced Repetition and the ideal interval between review sessions. The following are the best Spaced Repetition intervals according to him. 

• 1 day following the first lesson
• 7 days have passed since the first learning session.
• 16 days have passed since the first learning session.
• 35 days have passed since the first learning session.

The Spaced Repetition learning strategy requests consistent, short review sessions. By holding these sessions regularly, learning gaps may be filled up, and information retention can be ensured. 

This approach is preferable to the ineffective method of holding exhausting, protracted study sessions without revision. This method has a high chance of getting bored and losing focus.

Additionally, watch out for cramming during the revision sessions, as it leads to exhaustion. The Spaced Repetition technique heavily relies on attention. And you should watch out for anything that negatively impacts your attention span.

Spaced repetition schedule

Using Spaced Repetition in your learning process is possible by creating a schedule of consistent revision sessions. This schedule must include periodic reviews of the material that has been learned.

When creating the schedule, the duration of each session should also be considered. Our focus lapses when we practice for long intervals, and we remember less information. A session should have a time limit of no more than 30 minutes.

A session must also be long enough to cover any learning gaps. A pause before any further review sessions is also advised. You should take regular breaks between study sessions to improve focus and prevent mental tiredness. 

Taking a break when the test is only days away may seem absurd, but you need to give your mind time to allow it to retain all the information you are throwing at it. This is precisely why spaced repetition is a great skill to learn. 

Spaced repetition gives you breaks between memorizing information and allowing the time your brain needs to absorb it.

The advantages of reading before going to sleep were covered in a previous post. In addition to being calming, it also adheres to the three aspects of memory: acquiring, consolidating, and recalling. When you learn something before going to bed, it is digested while you sleep, making it easier for you to remember it the next day.

How to use spaced repetition for studying

Students can benefit from Spaced Repetition techniques to increase their information retention capabilities and gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Students can make proper schedules and refresh their concepts regularly. 

Making a schedule is one thing; the next is following it. Additionally, if a plan is too hard for you, this 4-step strategy is simple and should produce effective results.

1. Revision of notes

While taking lecture notes, you are more likely to remember that specific material. And what’s more important than taking notes is timely reviewing them. 

After you have noted down the subject matter, review it within 20-24 hours. An effective technique of studying is to read the notes but then turn your head away and attempt to remember the essential details.

Rereading is not the same as recalling, so make sure you look the other way and use your memories instead. This constant exposure to the same information will allow you to remember it for a relatively long period. 

To assist you in remembering new knowledge, repeat it aloud, write it down, and utilize your imagination. Making the content memorable and engaging will make it simpler to place in the future.

2. First recollection of information 

The spaced repetition system asks for a constant recollection of the subject matter. This is an exercise to make your brain accustomed to that information. 

Try to remember the details of the information without looking at your notes a day after the initial learning. Attempt to recall the information at times when you are relaxed. For instance, if you’re sitting down or going for a walk.

Another method of increasing efficiency is making flashcards of critical topics and taking self-assessment tests on the central principles of the subject. The learning process is substantially aided by this strategy because flashcards are so simple to read and comprehend.

3. Recall the material again

The Spaced Repetition approach calls for constant repetition of the material. Once you have learned a new concept, you must recall it regularly. 

Over the next few days, recall the information every 24-36 hours. The session should not be exhausting and overly lengthy. It should be short yet effective. 

You can recall concepts while doing menial tasks such as waiting in line or on an elevator. Try to use your flashcards or notes as less as possible and attempt to recall the information from memory. 

The goal of this stage is to quiz and ask yourself questions. This will result in long-term retention of the information. While testing yourself, you should also create a system of positive reinforcement. 

This positive reinforcement will keep your morale high and improve your concentration.

4. Study the material all over again

Take your notes or flashcards and review them once more after a few days go by. When preparing for a test, make sure to complete this within a week of it. 

This allows your brain to fill in any learning gaps from the earlier sessions and refresh your concepts. Make sure not to get exhausted by this. Take care of your physical health, as it also affects your memory. 

You must associate your new knowledge with something else for it to stay in your memory in addition to being remembered and repeated in your thoughts. Keeping in mind how education grows upon itself, you can relate the new material to a previous study on a related subject.

Benefits of learning with the spaced repetition system

Spaced repetition systems offer various benefits, including enhanced memory and improved focus. The following are a few advantages of using spaced repetition.  

Consistent exposure to information

Through the Spaced Repetition method, your brain is exposed to knowledge on the topic repeatedly. This aids the brain’s ability to remember a particular piece of information for an extended time.

For this to be effective, you must regularly review the material.

Improved focus

Spaced Repetition technique relies on a fixed schedule of recollection of knowledge. After using this technique for a while, the brain becomes accustomed to the set periods of information recollection and automatically sharpens focus and increases attentiveness.

It is simpler for information to be encoded into long-term memory during that period when you follow a predictable spaced repetition schedule. 

This phenomenon arises because your brain anticipates when it will next encounter the content and respond with increased attentiveness and attention.

Increased brain strength 

According to the notion of spaced repetition, repeated exposure to the knowledge of the subject matter helps the brain store it for extended periods. Like any other body muscle, the brain gets stronger with regular training. 

This approach trains the brain to grasp and store information quickly and for a more extended period. The brain is trained to become hyperactive and attentive during periods of information recollection by repeated exposure to this technique.

Enhanced memory recollection

The Spaced Repetition technique benefits by making it simpler to retrieve and recall the information at a later time. This approach lets the brain consolidate new data with older, relevant knowledge from long-term memory. 

After some time is spent honing this approach, the brain increases the amount of time spent actively practicing memory in your brain as opposed to absorbing a concept passively.

Improved time management

Improved time management due to the chunking strategy is another advantage of the Spaced Repetition technique.

The Chunking approach enables you to divide larger jobs into manageable units of work that can be completed at regular intervals throughout the day. This strategy will allow you to separate the material according to importance while leaving time for its review.

Spaced repetition and speed reading can be tough to wrap your head around. Take our course on memory optimization if you need assistance. In this course, you’ll learn valuable tricks for retaining the information you read and memorizing essential facts. It’sIt’s ideal for both students and professionals. Click the link above to learn more.

Conclusion

The spaced repetition technique helps learners keep critical concepts fresh in their minds. The spaced repetition technique employs regular reviews to ensure long-term information retention. 

While enhancing comprehension, this method strives to keep concepts fresh. The spaced repetition technique works best if the information is recalled regularly. Creating a fixed schedule can also benefit the brain’s ability to retain data for extended periods.

At Iris Reading, you can enroll in various other courses to master a wide range of additional reading strategies. So what are you waiting for? Visit our website at irisreading.com and explore for yourself.