study skills
Spaced Repetition Done Properly: The Study Method That Actually Sticks
Spaced repetition works by reviewing information at expanding intervals — 1 day, 3 days, 7 days, 14 days — so long-term memory forms. Jarvis Flashcards run the algorithm automatically, showing weaker cards more often and mastered cards less.
Why cramming fails
Cramming loads short-term memory. Two weeks after the exam almost none of it remains. Spaced repetition schedules recall attempts before you'd forget — so each review restrengthens memory instead of rebuilding it from zero.
The interval schedule that works
Start at 1 day. If you recall correctly, jump to 3, then 7, then 14, then 30. If you fail, drop back to 1 day. Jarvis runs a variant of this (SM-2) so you never manage schedules manually.
How many cards per day?
20 new cards + 40 review cards per day is sustainable for most students. Do not add more — the review queue grows exponentially and burns out even motivated learners.
Frequently asked
Does spaced repetition work for maths, or only vocabulary?
It works for anything with a discrete question-answer pair — formulas, definitions, physics constants, mark-scheme phrases. It does not replace problem-solving practice.
Can I use Jarvis flashcards on mobile?
Yes. Jarvis is a PWA — install it on iOS or Android and review cards offline.
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