Boost Memory with Active Recall and Spaced Repetition!

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What is the Forgetting curve?

The forgetting curve is a psychological phenomenon that describes how our ability to recall information declines over time if we do not actively review or rehearse the information.

The forgetting curve was first described by German psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus in the late 19th century. He found that an average subject of his experiment forgot most of the information relatively quickly, with a steep decline in recall within the first few days, followed by a more gradual decline over time.

Source- Growth Engineering

The science behind the forgetting curve has to do with the way that our brains store and retrieve memories. When we first learn something new, the information is encoded in our brains and stored in our long-term memory. However, if we don’t actively review or rehearse the information, the memory traces can become weaker over time, making it more difficult to retrieve the information when we need it.

This process is thought to be related to synaptic plasticity, which is the ability of the connections between neurons to change and adapt in response to experience. When we learn something new, the synapses between neurons are strengthened, making it easier to recall the information later. However, if we don’t reinforce those connections through review or rehearsal, the synapses can weaken, making it more difficult to retrieve the information.

Understanding the principles behind the forgetting curve can help us develop more effective strategies for learning and retaining information over time. Active recall and spaced repetition are two effective strategies for beating the forgetting curve and improving long-term memory retention.

Active recall 

Active recall is based on the principle of the testing effect, which is the idea that actively recalling information from memory through testing or practice can enhance long-term memory retention.

When we actively recall information, we engage our brain in a process of retrieval and reconstruction. This process strengthens the neural pathways associated with that memory, making it easier to retrieve the information later.

In addition, when we actively recall information, we also engage in a process of metacognition or thinking about our thinking. This can help us identify gaps in our knowledge and understanding, and improve our ability to transfer knowledge to new contexts.

Research has shown that active recall is a more effective learning strategy than passive review or re-reading. 

Spaced Repetition 

Spaced repetition involves reviewing material at gradually increasing intervals over time. Instead of cramming all the material at once, spaced repetition helps to reinforce memories by spacing out study sessions in a way that maximises retention. This is because the brain needs time to consolidate memories, and spaced repetition allows for this consolidation to take place.

The science behind active recall suggests that it is an effective learning strategy because it engages the brain in the processes of retrieval and reconstruction, strengthens neural pathways associated with memory, and enhances metacognition and transfer of knowledge.

The optimal spacing of review sessions is determined by the forgetting curve, which describes how memory retention declines over time without review. The idea is to review the material just before it is about to be forgotten so that the memory is reinforced before it fades away.

Scientifically backed tips to help you study

Having understood the phenomenon of forgetting curve and the core concepts behind active recall and spaced repetition, here are some steps that a judiciary aspirant can take to improve memory retention:

Prepare your personalised questionnaire 

While reading any topic, attending lectures or going through notes, consider preparing a set of questionnaires on that subject. This can be an incredibly helpful activity during revision. These questions will help you to retrieve information from your brain, instead of simply re-reading the text.

Review Notes Regularly

 Reviewing notes regularly will help in retaining information for a longer period of time. Take a few minutes every day to review the notes taken in class or while reading a textbook.

Use Mnemonics

Mnemonics is a memory technique that involves creating an association between the information to be remembered and a visual or verbal cue. For example, creating an acronym of important legal terms to remember their order.

Take Practice Tests

 Practice tests are an effective way to test your knowledge and improve retention. They help to identify areas that need more attention and help to reinforce learning.

Make Connections

Try to connect the new information to the information that you already know. This can help in the retrieval process when recalling information later.

Active Learning

 Active learning involves engaging with the material and not just passively reading or listening. For example, try to explain concepts to someone else, create flashcards or mind maps, or write a summary of the topic in your own words.

Use Visual Aids

Use diagrams, charts, and other visual aids to help in understanding and remembering complex concepts.

Take Breaks

Taking regular breaks while studying helps to maintain focus and prevent fatigue. Studies suggest that taking a break after 45 minutes of study can be effective in improving retention.

Revise Frequently

Revision is key to improving retention. Schedule regular revision sessions, especially before exams, to ensure that the information is fresh in your mind.

Focus on the material that you find most difficult 

By repeatedly practising retrieval of this material, you can strengthen the associated neural connections and improve your ability to recall it later.

Edzorb Law can be your friend as you try to optimise your study routine. Edzorb offers quizzes, flashcards, visual notes and even comical scripts to help with active recall. The question bank can help automate your review schedule and ensure that you are reviewing material at optimal intervals. So give it a try and see how much more efficient and effective your studying can be!

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