One of the most effective study techniques for long-term learning and exam success is spaced repetition. Research has consistently shown that students who use this method retain information better and perform significantly better in tests compared to those who rely on last-minute cramming.
Spaced repetition is a learning technique that involves reviewing material at increasing intervals over time, rather than repeatedly studying it in a single session. The idea is to reinforce knowledge just as it’s about to be forgotten, strengthening memory and making recall easier in the long run.
For example, instead of revising a topic intensively for a few hours in one day, a student might review it today, then again in two days, then a week later, then a month later. This method capitalises on the spacing effect, a well-documented psychological principle that shows we learn more effectively when information is revisited periodically.
Students can incorporate this revision technique by creating a revision schedule with a plan to review topics multiple time before and exam, increasing the gaps between each session. Anki (flashcards app) is particularly good for this as it will test you more frequently on the cards that you are least confident on.
If students would like to discuss how best to incorporate spaced repetition into their revision schedule, they should discuss this with their PT or any of their teachers.
