Implement leitner leitner memory cards system - study techniques

It is one of the most effective methods for optimizing learning and information retention. Based on the principle of spaced repetition, this system has been used in various educational fields to improve long-term memory. In this article, we will explore how you can implement this method to improve your studies and make it part of your daily routine.

What is the Leitner system?

The Leitner system was developed by German psychologist Sebastian Leitner in the 1970s as a way to improve memorization through learning cards. The central idea is simple but powerful: instead of going through all the flashcards at the same time, the system uses a series of "boxes" in which material is organized according to the student's level of knowledge.

In simple terms, the flashcards are divided into different compartments or boxes, and the flashcards are moved between these boxes depending on whether the answers are correct or incorrect. This process adapts to the student's learning pace, ensuring that more difficult flashcards are reviewed more often, while mastered flashcards are reviewed less frequently.

How the Leitner system works

The system can be broken down into a four key step process:

• Place all your cards in the first box: this is the most frequent review box. Start reviewing all the cards in this box.

• Answer the questions: If you answer the questions correctly, the card advances to the next box, which involves a longer review interval. If you fail, the card goes back to the first box.

• Repeat according to the interval of the boxes: As you advance through the boxes, the intervals between reviews become longer. Cards in the top boxes are reviewed less frequently.

• Constant review: The process of moving cards between boxes ensures that you constantly review the cards you need to review the most, while those you have mastered are reviewed less frequently.

Advantages of the Leitner system

Using the Leitner system has multiple benefits, especially if you implement it consistently:

• Efficient memorization: Spaced repetition ensures that you are not unnecessarily repeating flashcards you have already mastered, which optimizes your study time.

• Adaptability: The system adapts to your learning pace, allowing you to focus on the areas you most need to improve.

• Reduced procrastination: By focusing only on the flashcards you need to review, the system keeps your motivation high and prevents mental fatigue.

Practical implementation of Leitner's system

To implement this system, you need a basic tool: flashcards. These can be physical, in the form of paper flashcards, or digital, using applications such as Anki or Quizlet that automate the process of spaced repetition.

If you decide to use physical flashcards, you'll simply need some boxes or folders that you can divide into compartments. The key is to set appropriate review intervals. For example:

• First compartment: review daily.

• Second compartment: review every 2 days

• Third compartment: review every 4 days

• And so on.

What content is suitable for the Leitner system?

The Leitner system is especially useful for memorizing specific data, such as definitions, dates, formulas, vocabulary of a new language or even complex concepts that require repetition to be thoroughly understood. By focusing on a single concept per card, the system also encourages mnemonics and active recall, which further strengthens your retention ability.

Improving over time

At first, it may seem like you are reviewing the same cards too many times. However, as you move through the process, you'll notice that the cards you've already mastered spend less time on your review list, allowing you to focus more on the areas where you need more work.

Conclusion

Leitner's system is a powerful tool that will help you improve your memory and study efficiency. Thanks to its personalized approach and scientific basis in spaced repetition, it becomes an invaluable resource for students and anyone who wants to optimize their learning. No matter what subject you are studying, this system can adapt to your needs and help you master the information more easily and effectively.