Spaced repetition: a simple revision plan that lasts
You forget most of a new topic within days unless you revisit it. Spaced repetition means revising at growing gaps, like after 1, 3, 7, 16 and 35 days, so each revision takes less time and lasts longer.
This drop-off is called the forgetting curve. Each time you successfully recall something, the curve gets flatter and you forget more slowly. That is why a few short, well-timed revisions beat one long session the night before.
Spaced repetition works best with active recall: at each revision, try to remember first, then check.
A simple plan you can follow
- Day 0: study the topic and write a 1–3 line summary in your own words.
- Day 1: recall the summary without looking. Check. 2 minutes.
- Day 3: recall again, and solve 2–3 questions on it.
- Day 7: recall and explain it to someone, or out loud to yourself.
- Day 16 and Day 35: quick recall. If you forgot, start again from Day 1 for that topic.
Tips that make it easier
- Keep summaries short. One line you can recall beats a page you can't.
- Be honest when you forget. Forgetting is information, not failure.
- Mix topics in one revision session instead of doing one chapter all day.
- Use a reminder so you don't have to track dates yourself.
How Samjhao helps
- Recall note after each study call, in your own words.
- Automatic recall checks on your Home screen after 1, 3, 7, 16, 35 and 90 days.
- Tap "I remembered" to push the next check further, or "Forgot" to see it again soon.
Questions students ask
What is spaced repetition?
Revising a topic several times with growing gaps between revisions, for example after 1, 3, 7, 16 and 35 days, instead of all at once.
What is the forgetting curve?
The way memory of new information drops quickly in the first days unless you review it. Each successful review slows the drop.
Which intervals should I use?
A simple set is 1, 3, 7, 16 and 35 days. The exact numbers matter less than revisiting before you fully forget, and spacing the gaps out over time.
Does spaced repetition work for maths?
Yes. Instead of re-reading, re-solve one or two typical problems from that topic at each interval.
Can I start spaced repetition a month before the exam?
Yes. Use shorter gaps (1, 3, 7, 14 days) and focus on the topics you forget most.
Updated: 2026-10-19