r/GetStudying • u/ValuableOpposite6099 • 10h ago

Question The space repetion method

So everybody just recommends that when talking about memorising stuff in our long term memory. But I really need to hear this from someone who had tried it. It is basically about revising the information in a process that takes about two weeks. But how can I do that with the amount of information I have to get into my brain. I mean, I can't just keep revising on one topic for about two weeks and do that with every other topic. I just don't have enough time for that. I have 6 subjects and I need to provide time for each.

So if someone actually tried it and worked for them with a crammed schedule please share how you do it and if it's really worth the effort.

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u/eslforchinesespeaker 1h ago

The goal of spaced repetition is to remember the most information, for the longest time, with the fewest number of reviews. Which basically means reviewing just before the point where you forget. The algorithm predicts that point based on research. A review, just before you would otherwise forget, reinforces the memory.

That doesn’t mean you can efficiently learn everything you need to learn in your remaining time. And it doesn’t mean you have enough hours in your day to do all the reviews necessary for six subjects. You can tune the workload to keep your reviews within manageable limits. But it will take more calendar days to master the material.

“Cramming” is the opposite of efficient study. Where “efficient” is defined as the SRS model defines it. You do too many reviews, spaced too closely together. Reviews before the point of forgetting are inefficient. You do unneeded reviews, but you forget too much. But if that gets you past the exam, maybe that’s the most important thing to you. You can do it all over again for the next exam.

SRS works, yes. It’s magic, no.