Spaced Repetition: the ultimate study hack for university students

We’ve all been there: desperately cramming the night before an exam, only to realize that most of what we ‘studied’ seems to have disappeared from our memory by the next morning. But what if you could be sure of retaining what you learn – not just for the test, but for the long haul? “Spaced Repetition” is an evidence-based method that promises to revolutionize the way you study.

Spaced Repetition is a fancy-sounding term for a simple, effective concept: the practice of reviewing information at increasing intervals over time. Instead of memorizing a fact once and for all, you revisit and revise it several times, spacing out your reviews.

Why every university student should embrace Spaced Repetition

• Long-term retention: It’s not about cramming, but understanding and retaining. With spaced repetition, you’re more likely to remember information months or even years later.
• Efficient use of time: Instead of re-reading chapters endlessly, you spend just a few minutes revising key points at spaced intervals, freeing up time for other subjects or activities.
• Reduced anxiety: Say goodbye to last-minute cramming and the associated stress. With regular, spaced-out reviews, you’re always exam-ready.

I will give you an example:Meet Alex, a second-year student overwhelmed with coursework. For her midterms, Alex decided to try Spaced Repetition. She used flashcards for her Economics class, and after reading a concept, she’d review it the next day, then three days after, then a week later, and so on. Result? Not only did Alex score an A, but when finals rolled around, she was surprised at how much she remembered without needing to start from scratch!

Using Spaced Repetition for your studies

• Flashcards: Use physical cards or apps like Anki and Quizlet. One side has the question or prompt, and the other has the answer.
• Schedule it: Plan your reviews. After the initial study, review at increasing intervals — perhaps 1 day later, then 3 days, then a week, and so on.
• Mix it up: Combine spaced repetition with other techniques such as the Feynman Technique or active recall for even better results.

Using Spaced Repetition in daily life

• Language learning: Trying to master Spanish or Mandarin? Use Spaced Repetition to remember vocabulary and grammar rules.
• Skills acquisition: Whether you’re learning coding, painting, or a musical instrument, use this technique to retain key techniques or theories.
• Everyday Knowledge: From remembering names at networking events to recalling facts from a workshop, spaced repetition can be your memory ally.