Spaced repetition. The habit of learning faster.

I discovered the spaced repetition methodology by learning languages.

As an adult, I’ve learned three languages (English, German and Italian). I’m still doing it.
I believe that trying to master a language is a never-ending adventure. The field is so big. And it’s also true for my mother tongue.

The concept is simple. You review the vocabulary more or less frequently based on your ability to remember it. I use mainly Anki, a dedicated spaced repetition software program.
But most of the learning web platforms are using their own type of spaced repetition concept. I’m working on Duolingo (more than 1600 streak) and LingQ (more than 700 streak) for my German and both offer it.
So you are more and more surrounded by the concept and probably already using it in some manner.

I found this strategy very helpful. With Anki, which is a generalist concept, I’ve started to work punctually on information I wanted to master on any domain.

What I love about this methodology is the fact that you can incorporate your learning in your daily life, using your dead time to do productive learning instead of just surfing on your mobile with no intention.
When you queue to clean your car, when you wait for someone, when you commute… The options are infinite. At the end of the week, when my app tells me that I have spent +30% on my mobile, I feel much better when it’s related to learning projects.

Also, with the development of technology, what was reserved mostly for language learning has become a standard in many topics.

I’m passionate about reading. I’ve read more than 300 books. I just discovered that an app like Readwise can automatically import my Kindle books notes into Evernote, and at the same time create flashcards using the spaced repetition method to show my highlights.
Spaced repetition works at its best when you use your own material. My highlights in this case.

I’ve just started to learn chess. And guess what?
A website like Chessable will do that also. After you follow a course, you’ll have a daily, weekly, monthly review on spaced repetition…

So when you tackle new learning topics, try to find ways to use the spaced repetition concept, by using principles such as:

• A little bit every day instead of a lot at once;
• Gamification: using Streak and other elements to keep it fun;
• Reviewing the new or more difficult flashcards more often;
• Using dead time productively.

Your learning curve will increase dramatically.

Enjoy your next learning experience.

Mr.OTG