Repetition with system

Repetition with System: The secret of lasting memories

Have you ever felt like you quickly forget what you've learned? Whether it's exams, learning a language, or mastering a new skill, memory is often our biggest challenge. However, there is a scientifically proven, simple, and extremely effective method for retaining information over the long term: spaced repetition .

Understanding the forgetting curve

Forgetting Curve

To understand the value of spaced repetition, we first need to understand how our memory works. In 1885, the German psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus discovered the "forgetting curve." According to his research, we forget almost 70% of what we learn within 24 hours if we don't make an effort to retain it. This curve shows that forgetting progresses rapidly, but also that it can be combated.

The good news? Every time we repeat information at the right time, we slow down this forgetting curve. This is where spaced repetition comes into play.

What is distributed repetition?

With spaced repetition, information is repeated at increasingly longer intervals. Instead of reading the same thing multiple times in a single session (which we call "cramming"), we space out the repetitions: for example, on the same day, then the next day, three days later, a week later, and so on.

With each repetition, the effort required to remember becomes slightly greater, but it is precisely this effort that strengthens memory. This process is called "active retrieval": The brain works to recall the information, thereby permanently strengthening neural connections.

Why is spaced repetition so effective?

1. Strengthening neural connections

With each memory, new connections are created or strengthened in the brain. The greater the effort required to recall something (without it being impossible), the more effective the memorization.

2. Combats natural forgetfulness

By repeating material just before it's forgotten, we climb the forgetting curve. This allows information to stick in our memory significantly longer.

3. Optimizing learning time

Instead of spending hours rereading, spaced rereading allows you to revise less frequently but much more effectively. We save time and improve our results at the same time.

4. Transfer to long-term memory

Frequently accessed information is transferred from short-term memory to long-term memory and is thus available for long-term use.

How do I set up spaced repetitions?

The good news is that spaced reps are accessible to everyone and don't require any fancy equipment. Here are some tips for using them:

- Use suitable tools

Apps like Anki, Quizlet, and Memrise are specifically designed for spaced review. They automatically remind you to review at the right time.

- Create your own flashcards

Write down important information on cards and review them regularly between sessions.

- Plan your revisions

After learning a new concept, review it the same day, then the next day, three days later, one week later, one month later, three months later, and then one year later. Adjust the intervals according to your retention.

- Test yourself actively

Instead of passively rereading, try to recall the information without looking at your notes. This retrieval effort is key to memorization.

Concrete application examples

- Learn languages

To retain vocabulary, repeat new words at regular intervals. This principle is often used by language apps.

- Exam preparation

Instead of going through everything the day before, spread your revisions over several weeks and remind yourself of them regularly.

- Acquisition of new skills

Whether it's music, programming, or another discipline, you can consolidate what you've learned through spaced repetition.

Pitfalls to avoid

- The revisions are spaced too far apart

If the interval is too long, there's a risk that the information will be completely forgotten. Start with short intervals and gradually lengthen them.

- Just read it again

Passive proofreading is much less effective than self-assessment. Focus on exercises, tests, and flashcards.

- Lack of regularity

The key to spaced repetition is consistency. Make it part of your study routine.

Diploma

Spaced repetition is a powerful method, proven by numerous studies in cognitive science. It not only helps you retain information longer, but also helps you learn more intelligently and effectively. Whether you're a student, a professional, or self-taught, embrace spaced repetition: Your memory will thank you.

The combination of spaced repetition and mind mapping is one of the most effective strategies for retaining learning material over the long term.

These two complementary methods are based on sound scientific principles of cognitive psychology and neuropedagogy. Therefore, their synergy maximizes learning effectiveness.

Distributed repetition: anchoring information over a longer period of time

With spaced repetition, information is repeated at increasingly longer intervals. This method exploits the forgetting curve discovered by Ebbinghaus, which shows that we quickly forget what we don't retain. By regularly reactivating memory shortly before the information is forgotten, we consolidate memories and optimize long-term memory.

The advantages are numerous:

- Strengthening neural connections with each retrieval, making information more stable and accessible.

- Optimize learning time : For better results, fewer repetitions are required than with intensive last-minute learning.

- Transfer to long-term memory : Each reactivation delays forgetting and allows up to 90% of knowledge to be retained for several weeks or months.

Mind mapping: organizing and linking knowledge

Mind mapping represents information visually in the form of tree diagrams. This method helps structure ideas, visualize relationships between concepts, and facilitate the overall understanding of a topic.

Its main advantages:

- Clear organization of information : Main and secondary ideas are arranged hierarchically, which helps to better understand and remember the relationships between them.

- Stimulation of visual memory : The use of colors, images and branches promotes the anchoring of memory.

- Active engagement : The process of creating a mind map requires synthesizing, reformulating, and linking concepts, which promotes deeper understanding.

Why is the combination so effective?

1. Double coding of information

By combining spaced repetition and mind mapping, you can activate both verbal memory (through repetition) and visual memory (through mind mapping). This approach activates multiple memory channels and increases the likelihood of later recall.

2. Effective and targeted reactivation

Mind maps serve as an ideal revision tool for spaced review. They allow you to quickly review an entire chapter or course, focus on specific topics you need to reinforce, and re-establish connections between concepts. During each review session, we don't simply review lists; we review the overall structure and essential details.

3. Deepening and deeper understanding

Spaced repetition promotes retention, while mind mapping encourages understanding and reflection. By combining these two elements, we not only remember individual facts: we also understand how they fit together, making it easier to recall and apply them in new contexts.

4. Reduction of cognitive load

By visualizing information in diagram form, mind mapping reduces working memory overload. Spaced repetition, on the other hand, avoids the accumulation of information at the last minute and spreads the learning effort over a longer period of time, making learning less stressful and more effective.

5. Adaptation to all learner profiles

This combination is suitable for both visual and auditory or kinesthetic learners. Some benefit from the graphic aspect of the map, others from the oral or written repetition during timed revisions.

How can they be put into practice together?

1. Create a mind map after each lesson or chapter : Summarize the main points, concepts and examples.

2. Schedule staggered review sessions : Review your map at longer intervals (e.g., 1 day, 3 days, 1 week, 1 month).

3. Actively reactivate : Try rephrasing the text aloud or rearranging the flashcard and then check if any points have been forgotten.

4. Update the map as you review it : Add to it or reorganize it as new links appear.

Diploma

By using spaced repetition and mind mapping together , you can retain content faster, longer, and with better comprehension. This synergy is based on the regular reactivation of information and a visual organization that structures thinking.

The result: more effective learning, less stress and an increased ability to apply what has been learned in exams or in professional life.

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