How to master Spaced Repetition
Let’s talk about what spaced repetition is and how you can use it to improve your memory. I use spaced repetition to memorize more and to commit it to long term memory. Studies show us that if you learn information today but do not study any of it for the next 6 days you will recall none of it. You have to use spaced repetition to ingrain something into your long term memory. Memory research has shown us that if we space out our revisions over a period of several days we will remember more of it than if we just cram the night before. Cramming is good for our short term memory but for our long term we need spaced repetition.
These are my 4 steps to master spaced repetition:
- Within 20-24 hours of first learning new information make sure to review your notes. As you review make sure to glance at your notes and look away. Try to recall what was written in your notes. This action will cement the information into your brain stronger.
- Within a day do the same exercise as above but try to do so while you are out doing other things; such as running errands or exercising. This will make your brain try to recall the information but without the help of your notes being there with you. Make sure to look over your notes to fill in the blanks once you have returned to them.
- For the next several days ever 24-36 hours give yourself mental tests throughout other tasks. You can even use some flashcard software such as http://ankisrs.net/ or create a test for yourself. You can also try speed reading through making sure to touch on all the important information.
- Several days before the test get out your notes and review in detail. This is the final step, by reading through slowly one last time will cement the information into your long term memory using spaced repetition.
Well guys those are my 4 steps to using spaced repetition to commit something to your long term memory. There are many things that you could use spaced repetition for besides school work. This would be great for dance moves or even karate moves.
I take Jiu Jitsu and spaced repetition works for me. After my class I will write down what the move was and for the next few days I will review the move to cement it into my long term memory. Without repetition I am not able to recall what move I learned and I’m the Memory Champion.
This is a great tool for your memory. I believe that if you couple it with the Mind Palace you will be unstoppable with what you can do with your memory.
For more information on spaced repetition check out the link below:
