A Good Mind

Spaced repetition is a learning technique that involves repeating material at increasing intervals of time. It is based on the idea that people learn best when they are exposed to information at specific intervals that are optimised for their individual learning patterns.

Spaced repetition is often used in language learning, where students are exposed to new words or phrases at increasing intervals, allowing them to gradually build their vocabulary. It is also used in medical education, where students are exposed to key concepts and facts at specific intervals to help them retain the information over time.

The underlying principle of spaced repetition is that it takes advantage of the brain's natural forgetting curve. When we learn something new, we tend to forget it relatively quickly. However, with regular repetition at specific intervals, we can reinforce the memory and make it more durable.

Spaced repetition can be implemented in a variety of ways, from using flashcards to software programmes that track learning progress and adjust the frequency of repetition accordingly. One popular method is the "Leitner system," which involves dividing material into different piles based on how well it is known and reviewing each pile at specific intervals.

Research has shown that spaced repetition can be an effective way to improve learning and retention of information. It is particularly useful for memorising large amounts of information, such as new vocabulary words, scientific or medical terminology, or historical facts.