How to Learn 10x Faster Using Spaced Repetition and Active Recall

Spaced repetition is a scientifically-backed method where information is reviewed at increasing intervals to combat forgetting. The idea was formalised by German psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus, who discovered the “forgetting curve.”

Tools like Anki and SuperMemo use this spacing principle to schedule revisions just before you’re likely to forget — making your review sessions ultra-efficient.

WHAT IS SPACED REPETITION?

Popularised in American cognitive science research, active recall involves pulling information out of your brain rather than passively reviewing it.

Flashcards, self-testing, and teaching concepts aloud are all powerful active recall methods. Instead of re-reading notes, ask: “What were the main points?” or “Can I explain this from memory?” This forces stronger memory pathways.

WHAT IS ACTIVE RECALL?

Cambridge and Oxford study strategies often include both — recalling a concept repeatedly and spacing it over days or weeks. It’s like hitting “save” on your brain after each recall session.

Combining them builds durable, long-term memory, especially useful for exams with a vast syllabus like the UPSC or GMAT.

WHY COMBINE BOTH METHODS?

Apps like Anki (Japan origin), Quizlet (US) and RemNote (Germany) are excellent for automating spaced repetition and active recall.

They track what you forget and customise the timing of reviews. You can also use Google Sheets or handmade flashcards if you prefer analogue.

BEST TOOLS TO USE

For UPSC: Break the syllabus into small Q&A sets. Instead of rereading NCERTs, quiz yourself daily and revise only what’s fading.

For IELTS or GMAT: Make vocabulary flashcards and test yourself in intervals — 1 day, 3 days, 7 days, 15 days.

HOW TO APPLY THIS FOR UPSC AND IELTS PREP

Memory research suggests the ideal spacing pattern is: review the next day, then after 3 days, a week, two weeks, and so on.

Adjust based on your forgetfulness. If you recall something too easily, extend the gap. Struggling? Review sooner. Customisation is key.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU REVIEW?

Chinese memory athletes preparing for the World Memory Championships often combine visualisation with active recall — like imagining a story behind each flashcard or using memory palaces.

Add some creative visual cues to make facts stick — it works wonders when preparing for tricky topics like history, economics, or science.

FINAL TIP FROM MEMORY CHAMPS

Struggling to complete your vast syllabus quickly?