Anki: How Spaced Repetition Can Revolutionize Your Studying
Anki is a flashcard application and an active learning tool. It uses a method based on periodic reviews that helps with long-term information retention.
Anki allows you to create your own flashcards and, based on your performance, the program uses its built-in intelligence to calculate and organize a spaced repetition schedule. It was designed to help users effectively learn and retain large amounts of knowledge.
The app can be used on your phone or computer, and all devices can be synchronized with your latest study session.
By incorporating Anki into their study routines, students can optimize learning, strengthen comprehension, and improve long-term retention of essential knowledge.
How does Anki work?
Anki has a spaced repetition algorithm designed to optimize memory retention. Users create flashcards with questions or prompts and, with a click of a button, the corresponding answers or information are revealed. As users review their flashcards, they indicate their level of recall. Anki then intelligently schedules cards for review based on performance.
Cards that are difficult or answered incorrectly appear more often, while easier ones are scheduled for later review. This system enhances long-term memory retention by focusing on weaker areas and allowing students to dedicate more time to challenging cards.
Anki also offers flexibility in study options, with several card styles available. Students can choose from different review modes, such as a standard Q&A format or a cloze deletion format, where specific parts of a sentence are removed to test understanding. Recently, Anki released the “one by one” feature, where multiple fields can be hidden on the same flashcard to help consolidate learning. Anki also allows students to create image occlusions, where parts of an image can be hidden. Students can organize their flashcards with tags and create hierarchical decks to structure subjects and subtopics.
This is an essential tool for USMLE Step preparation for those who want to revalidate their medical degree and pursue residency in the United States!
What are Add-ons?
Add-ons are extensions that can add new features to Anki. By installing them, you can, for example, hide specific parts of images, add visual calendar elements, and much more. Here you can explore the available Add-ons!
Are there pre-made decks available for studying, or do I have to create all the cards myself?
Yes, there are! If you’re studying for specific exams, like the USMLE, you can use ready-made decks.
Are there specific configurations that work best for studying for the USMLE?
Yes! Every student may have their own preference, but there’s an “optimized” setup that we recommend to all our Jornada Médica USA students. Dr. Letícia Pretti even has an entire exclusive course on this essential app, Mastering Anki (Jornada students have full access, make sure to watch it all!).
These are the basic principles of Anki!
Do you have any questions? Leave them in the comments and we’ll answer them.
