How to make a spaced repetition schedule

If you want to improve the retention of information for long-term use, implementing a spaced repetition schedule can be incredibly helpful. Spaced repetition is a technique used to optimize the long-term retention of information. In this article, you’ll learn how to make a spaced repetition schedule that works.

What is spaced repetition?

Before we get into creating a spaced repetition schedule, it's a must first to understand the concept of spaced repetition itself. Spaced repetition is a scientifically-proven instructional strategy based on the Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve. It’s based on the idea that the human brain is better at retaining information when spaced out or reviewed at intervals rather than in one long cram session. This is why spaced repetition learning is a good way to make your training unforgettable.

Additionally, spaced repetition and repetitive learning can be used to supplement other learning techniques, such as microlearning courses, mnemonics, and flashcards, to further enhance the learning process. 

Sign up for SC Training (formerly EdApp) and make the most out of your learning time. Create your own spaced repetition schedule for free today!

Advantages of creating a spaced repetition schedule

There are many advantages of using spaced repetition and creating a spaced repetition schedule. Let’s look into some of the reasons before delving into how to create one:

Improved retention

By spacing out your review of the material, you’re better able to retain the information over time. Studies have shown that spaced repetition can improve memory retention by up to 50%.

Efficient use of time

With spaced repetition, you don't waste time reviewing material you already know well. Instead, you focus your efforts on the material that you’re still struggling to remember.

Reduced cramming

Spaced repetition helps to reduce the need for last-minute cramming before an exam or presentation. By reviewing material over time, you’re less likely to forget important information.

Better long-term learning

Spaced repetition helps to embed information in your long-term memory. This means that you’ll be able to better recall the information in the future, even after a long period of time has passed.

Personalized learning

With spaced repetition, you can tailor your study schedule to your individual needs. You can review material more frequently if you find it difficult, or less frequently if you’re already confident with it.

Steps for Creating a Spaced Repetition Schedule

Now that we’ve determined what spaced repetition is and the advantages of creating a spaced repetition schedule, let’s see how you can create one that works for you.

Step 1: Determine Your Goals

Before you start to create your schedule, it's important to identify what your goals are. What do you want to achieve through spaced repetition? Are you trying to remember important facts for a presentation at work? Is it for learning a new process or procedure? Once you determine your goals, you can tailor your schedule to meet those specific needs.

Step 2: Choose a Spaced Repetition System

There are several different spaced repetition systems to choose from, each with its own unique approach. SC Training (formerly EdApp)’s Brain Boost is the perfect spaced repetition tool for the job if you don’t want the extra work.

Brain Boost automatically identifies incorrectly answered questions and shows them to learners again so that they can learn from their mistakes. It uses the SM-2 algorithm to automatically repeat key content until your learner gets it. No additional content creation is required. 

Brain Boost then works behind the scenes to know when to reinforce your content. It looks at how learners are doing with their lessons. Then factoring in the weighted importance of your content, decide what comes next. Your learners will automatically receive the optimal learning tailored to their individual needs, so you don’t have to worry about the details.

Step 3: Input Information into the System

Once you've chosen a spaced repetition system, it's time to start inputting information. This could be anything from vocabulary words to historical dates to important formulas. Make sure to organize the information in a way that makes sense to you, such as by topic or category.

With SC Training (formerly EdApp)’s Brain Boost though, this step is automatic. Once enabled, it’ll include questions from the question slides that are in your courses.

Step 4: Set Initial Intervals

When you first start using a spaced repetition system, you'll need to set initial intervals for each piece of information. These intervals will determine how frequently you need to review each item. The initial intervals will depend on the complexity of the information and how well you already know it.

As mentioned previously, SC Training (formerly EdApp)’s Brain Boost uses the highly-regarded Supermemo SM-2 interval algorithm to space out questions. The optimal interval between repetitions is recomputed each time a question/slide is answered. This automatically gives you a spaced repetition schedule template.

Step 5: Review Information

Once you've inputted all of your information and set the initial intervals, it's time to start reviewing. Make sure to check information on a regular basis to make sure that you're retaining it. As you review information, the system will adjust the intervals based on how well you're doing.

Step 6: Adjust Intervals as Needed

Over time, you may find that certain items require more or less frequent review. If you're finding that you're forgetting certain pieces of information, you may need to adjust the intervals to review them more frequently. On the other hand, if you find that you're remembering certain pieces of information easily, you may be able to space out the intervals to review them less frequently.

With the right approach, spaced repetition can help learners unlock their learning potential and achieve better results with less effort. If you want a hassle-free and convenient way to create a spaced repetition schedule, SC Training (formerly EdApp)’s Brain Boost is the memory training app that can get you started with your spaced repetition learning journey.