Great question! Letβs explore what Anki flashcards are, how they work, and how to recreate their power on paper (no app required).
π§ What is Anki?
Anki is a free app that uses a technique called Spaced Repetition β a scientifically proven method for long-term memory retention.
π The Core Idea:
- Review info right before you’re about to forget it.
- It adapts to your memory: easy cards appear less, hard cards appear more.
- This saves time and burns knowledge into long-term memory.
π‘ Example: How Anki Flashcards Work
Front (Question) | Back (Answer) |
---|---|
What is the capital of France? | Paris |
Formula for area of a circle? | Ο Γ rΒ² |
What is neuroplasticity? | Brainβs ability to rewire itself |
Then Anki schedules these:
- Day 1 β review
- Day 3 β review again
- Day 7 β next review
- Day 14 β again, etc.
If you forget β it resets to Day 1.
π How to Create Anki-Style Flashcards on Paper
You donβt need the app β paper works just as well!
βοΈ Step-by-Step:
- Cut index cards or any A4 paper into equal-sized flashcards (around 3×5 inches or 7×12 cm).
- On the front side, write:
- A question, keyword, or cue
- On the back side, write:
- The answer, definition, diagram, or explanation
π§ Example:
Front:
What does the hippocampus do?
Back:
Involved in memory formation and spatial navigation.
π How to Use Spaced Repetition with Paper Flashcards
- Use 3 boxes or envelopes:
- Box 1 β Review daily
- Box 2 β Review every 3 days
- Box 3 β Review weekly
- When you get a card right, move it to the next box.
- If you get it wrong, send it back to Box 1.
π¦ Schedule Table:
Box | Review When | Notes |
---|---|---|
1 | Daily | New or forgotten cards |
2 | Every 3 days | Cards remembered once |
3 | Every 7 days | Mastered cards |
π― Tips to Make Great Flashcards
β
Keep each card simple β 1 fact per card
β
Use images or sketches if possible (visual memory is powerful)
β
Use your own words β it improves recall
β
Say the answer out loud before flipping
β
Shuffle cards often to prevent order-based guessing
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