The forgetting curve and spaced repetition

In short: The forgetting curve shows that we quickly forget what we have newly learned unless we repeat it. Repeating at growing intervals (spaced repetition) stabilises knowledge in the long term.

In more detail: Hermann Ebbinghaus studied it in 1885. Without repetition a large part is lost within days.

In detail

• Spaced instead of massed learning: Several short sessions over days beat one long night before the exam.
• Intervals: For example after 1 day, 3 days, 1 week, 1 month.
• Active retrieval: Testing yourself is more effective than rereading (gedaechtnis-und-arbeitsgedaechtnis).
• Flashcards: The Leitner system sorts cards into boxes; wrong ones come back sooner.
• Apps: Study programs schedule repetitions automatically (e.g. Anki).
• Create meaning: Meaning and examples consolidate knowledge further.
• Tip: Short breaks and sleep after learning support consolidation (schlafhygiene-besser-schlafen).