Master Vocabulary with Spaced Repetition

What is Spaced Repetition?

Spaced repetition is a learning technique that involves reviewing information at gradually increasing intervals. Instead of cramming all your vocabulary study into one session, you spread it out over time—reviewing words just before you're about to forget them.

This method is based on the forgetting curve, a concept discovered by psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus in the 1880s. He found that memory retention decays exponentially over time, but each review "resets" the curve and makes the memory stronger.

Why It Works

When you learn a new word, it enters your short-term memory. Without reinforcement, you'll forget it within days. But here's the key insight: if you review the word at the optimal moment—right before you forget it—something powerful happens.

Your brain recognizes the pattern: "This information keeps coming back, so it must be important." Each successful recall strengthens the neural pathway, moving the word from short-term to long-term memory.

The Science Behind It

• Active Recall: Actively retrieving information strengthens memory more than passive review
• Spacing Effect: Distributed practice is more effective than massed practice
• Desirable Difficulty: A slight struggle to remember actually enhances retention

Our Review Schedule

We've designed our spaced repetition system based on research and real-world testing:

Review	Timing	Purpose
1st	1 hour after learning	Initial reinforcement
2nd	6 hours later	Same-day consolidation
3rd	1 day later	Short-term to medium-term
4th	2 days later	Medium-term strengthening
5th	1 week later	Long-term memory lock

After completing these five reviews, words are typically locked into long-term memory and only need occasional refreshers.

Practical Tips for Success

1. Be Consistent

The system only works if you show up. Even 10 minutes daily beats 2 hours once a week.

2. Trust the Process

It might feel strange to wait before reviewing. Resist the urge to cram—the spacing is what makes it work.

3. Focus on Understanding

Don't just memorize definitions. Connect words to images, emotions, and real-life contexts.

4. Use Multiple Senses

Say words aloud, write them down, and visualize their meaning. Multi-sensory learning creates stronger memories.

The Results

Studies show that spaced repetition can make learning up to 50% more efficient compared to traditional methods. Students using this technique typically:

• Retain 90% of vocabulary after 1 month (vs. 20% with cramming)
• Spend less total time studying
• Feel more confident in their knowledge
• Experience less study fatigue

Start Today

The best time to start using spaced repetition was yesterday. The second best time is now. Begin with just 10-20 new words, and let the system guide your reviews.

Your future self will thank you for the vocabulary that stuck.