What is spaced repetition
Spaced repetition is a study technique based on Hermann Ebbinghaus's "forgetting curve": reviewing material at increasing time intervals is far more effective for long-term retention than cramming everything at once.
The intervals used
This planner suggests reviews at 1, 3, 7, 15 and 30 days after the initial study session — a classic progression used by flashcard systems like Anki and by many exam-prep methods.
How to use it
Pick the date you studied (or will study) the material, and the planner generates the five suggested review dates.
Tip
Each review doesn't need to be long — reread your notes, redo a few exercises, or try explaining the material from memory. The goal is to reactivate the information right before it would otherwise be forgotten.
Frequently asked questions
Why does reviewing at increasing intervals work better?
Because each review refreshes the memory right as it's starting to fade, strengthening long-term retention.
Do I have to follow these exact days?
Not rigidly — they're a practical guideline; being off by a day or two won't hurt the method.
Does this technique work for any subject?
Yes, it's especially effective for memorization (vocabulary, formulas, dates, concepts), but it helps with any material.
Is there a tool that automates this?
Yes, spaced-repetition flashcard apps (like Anki) automate the scheduling based on your own performance.