It’s no secret to neurodivergent individuals that the traditional education system doesn’t always cater well to all learning styles. Depending on the topic, learners can encounter a heavy emphasis on memorization, recalling facts and figures, and vocabulary training. Traditional methods of studying can sometimes feel like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole.
Enter Spaced Repetition: a method that’s like having a superpower for memory and productivity in your study toolbox.
This isn’t just another study technique; it’s a unique approach that caters to how many neurodivergent individuals learn and evolve.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a new addition to your study toolkit at your disposal, empowering you to cut through distractions and leap over some common study hurdles.
Click here to jump to the TL;DR summary
What is Spaced Repetition?
Spaced Repetition is a learning technique designed to increase the efficiency of memory retention and recall of information by capitalizing on the way our brains are wired to remember information. Instead of attempting to learn new material through a single marathon cramming session, Spaced Repetition involves spreading out study sessions over a series of increasing intervals.
Spaced Repetition aligns with “The Forgetting Curve,” a concept introduced by Hermann Ebbinghaus in the late 19th century. Ebbinghaus discovered that our rate of forgetting newly learned information is rapid at first but slows down over time and is logged on a linear curve.
Therefore, by strategically timing review sessions just as the material begins to fade from memory, Spaced Repetition ensures that each review is both challenging enough to strengthen memory and timely enough to prevent the information from being forgotten entirely.
This approach not only helps in embedding information more deeply into long-term memory but also makes the learning process more efficient and less time-consuming in the long run.
The Science Behind Spaced Repetition
In a 2016 article, Spaced Repetition Promotes Efficient and Effective Learning: Policy Implications for Instruction author Sean Kang summarized the key features of using the Spaced Repetition Method for improving student learning.
Key points include:
- The timing or arrangement of review/practice affects learning.
- Practice is more effective when spaced out over time, instead of massed or grouped together (equating total practice time).
- Spaced practice enhances memory, problem-solving, and transfer of learning to new contexts.
- Spaced practice offers great potential for improving students’ educational outcomes.
In addition, the article showcases a variety of different disciplines that spaced practice can be implemented to support learning. From second language learners to medical students, the applications of Spaced Repetition are wide. Duolingo and Quizlet (no affiliation with LSA) are two popular apps that utilize spaced repetition algorithms to optimize vocabulary retention among its users.
Step-by-Step Guide to Implementing Spaced Repetition
Let’s now explore the steps you can use to implement Spaced Repetition in your study plan.
Step 1: Break Apart Your Learning Material
The first step in leveraging the Spaced Repetition Method is to break down the material into manageable chunks. Begin by segmenting your learning material into a smaller sections, you can properly complete the initial memorization and make sure you’re able to properly schedule review sessions.
For example, if you have a list of 100 vocabulary words to learn for the SAT exam, start by grouping them into sets of ten. This division makes the task less daunting and allows for focused attention on each set of words. Tackle the first set of words, ensuring you understand not just their meanings but also how they’re used in sentences.
Step 2: Create a Review Schedule
Next, develop a review schedule that spaces out your study sessions for each segment. After your initial study session with the first task, plan to review the material the next day. After this review, extend the interval to three days, then a week, and so on.
This strategy can be facilitated by using a calendar app to set reminders or a Spaced Repetition software platform like Quizlet, specifically designed for this purpose.
Step 3: Adjust Based on Performance
As you progress, it’s crucial to adjust your intervals based on how well you’re remembering the material. If you find yourself easily recalling the information, you might extend the interval longer before the next review session. Conversely, if material is difficult to recall or you’re having errors in recall, shorten the interval to reinforce your memory.
This personalized adjustment ensures that your study time is spent efficiently, focusing only on the material that challenges you the most. Material that you’ve learned already can be put on the ‘back burner’ of sorts and only reviewed at sporadic intervals.
Step 4: Integrate Spaced Repetition into Daily Routines
Those who have the most success with the method find ways to incorporate the Spaced Repetition Method schedule into their daily routine. Set aside consistent times in your schedule, like reviewing over breakfast or before going to bed. This integration helps turn memorization and studying into a habit, making it a natural and less overwhelming part of your daily life.
Enhancing Effectiveness and Avoiding Pitfalls with Spaced Repetition
Mastering the Spaced Repetition Method requires more than just understanding the theory. It involves applying the method effectively and avoiding common pitfalls that can hinder progress.
On your way to optimizing your study habits and boosting your recall of information, certain strategies can significantly amplify your success, while awareness of typical mistakes can save you from unnecessary setbacks.
Here’s how to elevate your Spaced Repetition practice to the next level, making every study session count towards your study goals.
Practical Tips for Success
To maximize your learning efficiency and make the process more engaging, consider the following tips:
- Engage with the Material Creatively: Make learning active by using your material in a variety of ways. Embed various sentences, stories, or jokes as you review the material. This approach helps better encode the information.
- Combine Visual and Verbal Learning: Attach a visual representation to items whenever possible. Adding drawings or a photo helps to create a mental image that will aid in recall down the road.
- Test Regularly and In Different Formats: Use flashcards, apps, or practice tests to quiz yourself regularly. This not only reinforces memory but also encourages using different learning modalities.
- Teach What You Learn: Teaching the material to someone else is an excellent way to consolidate your own knowledge and identify any gaps in understanding.
- Find A Study Buddy for Review Sessions: Spend some of your initial review session time in sharing the material with a friend or family member. If you prefer to study in small groups, study the initial set of material to mastery on your own, and then use social group settings to practice your review topics.
- Take Data. Visually depicting your success in review sessions on a chart or graph can add extra motivation and help you measure progress. Try our free .pdf downloadable data collection sheets for a simple way to log progress in your learning.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
To fully benefit from Spaced Repetition, it’s crucial to avoid common pitfalls that can undermine your efforts. Here are some to watch out for:
- Overloading Sessions: Cramming too much information into a single session can overwhelm your success and hurt your retention. Keep sessions manageable and cut into small bites.
- Inflexible Scheduling: Adjust your review intervals based on how well you’re recalling information. If you’re falling behind on your retention rate, you’re better off backing up and reviewing more frequently as you’ll only continue to see increased errors as you go. Flexibility is key to efficient learning.
- Neglecting Review Sessions: Consistency in review sessions is critical. Skipping them can significantly impair the effectiveness of the Spaced Repetition method.
- Relying Solely on Passive Review: Active engagement with the material, through methods like self-testing or application in writing, is far more effective than passive review. There’s only so much you’ll get out of simply flipping through flashcards. Try multiple different exercises or activities when you work on review sessions.
Additional Resources
Find this guide helpful?
Life Skills Advocate has a long list of helpful resources to make studying, homework, and executive functioning skills like working memory easier. Here are some additional resources to check out:
- How To Make Studying Executive Function Friendly
- How To Make School More Executive Function Friendly
- 101 Neurodivergent Life Hacks For School, Work, Life & More
- Executive Functioning assessment
- Real-Life Executive Functioning Workbook (coupon code LSA20 for 20% off)
- Real-Life Executive Function Coaching
TL;DR – (Too Long, Didn’t Read)
Spaced Repetition is not just a study method but a productivity tool that can enhance how you learn, work, and retain information. By following this step-by-step guide, you’re well on your way to leveraging this powerful technique for your personal and professional growth. We encourage you to share your experiences and successes with Spaced Repetition, joining a community of lifelong learners who are maximizing their potential every day. Remember, consistency is key, so start small, be patient, and watch your productivity soar!
Further Reading
- Kang – Spaced Repetition Promotes Efficient and Effective Learning: Policy Implications for Instruction
- Life Skills Advocate – How To Make Studying Executive Function Friendly
- Life Skills Advocate – How To Make School More Executive Function Friendly
- Life Skills Advocate – 101 Neurodivergent Life Hacks For School, Work, Life & More
- Life Skills Advocate – Executive Functioning assessment
- Life Skills Advocate – Real-Life Executive Functioning Workbook (coupon code LSA20 for 20% off)
- Life Skills Advocate – Real-Life Executive Function Coaching