Picking the Perfect Spaced Repetition Software

Introduction

Spaced repetition is an evidence-based learning technique that helps to cement information in memory by revisiting it at strategic intervals. The principle is based on the psychological spacing effect, which suggests that information is more effectively remembered if learning sessions are spaced out over time rather than into one session… crammers, we’re looking at you!

Since spaced repetition methodologies have become more widely adopted, there have been a number of tools that have emerged to help facilitate more effective use of the spacing effect. These tools include Anki, Quizlet, Mochi Cards, RemNote, and of course, Dekki… you didn’t think we’d miss the opportunity to plug our own software, did you?!

1. Anki

• Description: Anki is an open-source spaced repetition tool known for its adaptability and extensive customization options.
• Benefits:
  • Customizability: Highly customizable, allowing for personalization of study decks and review algorithms.
  • Flexibility: Supports learning various subjects with its versatile card formatting.
  • Offline Access: Facilitates studying on the go without an internet connection.
• Drawbacks:
  • User Interface: Can be daunting due to its less intuitive, dated interface.
  • Learning Curve: Features a steep learning curve due to its complexity.
• Pricing: Free on the web and Android; $24.99 for iOS version.
  

2. Quizlet

• Description: Quizlet is a widely-used flashcard application that has a large user base and diverse study modes.
• Benefits:
  • UI Simplicity: Features a simple, intuitive interface for beginners.
  • Interactive Learning Modes: Includes flashcards, tests, and games for multimodal learning.
  • Large User Community: Access to a wide array of user-created study sets.
• Drawbacks:
  • Limited Customization: Does not offer as much customization as some other apps.
  • Minimal Spaced Repetition Features: Limited focus on spaced repetition makes this difficult for large volumes of flashcards.
• Pricing: Free basic version; Quizlet Plus starts at $9.99/month.
  

3. Mochi Cards

• Description: Mochi Cards is a sleek, modern app that supports Markdown for seamless integration with digital notes.
• Benefits:
  • Integration Features: Supports Markdown, allowing easy note integration.
  • Aesthetic Appeal: Boasts a clean and modern interface.
  • Cross-Platform Syncing: Enables studying across multiple devices with cloud syncing.
• Drawbacks:
  • New on the Market: Less established, with a smaller user base and fewer shared decks.
  • Cost: Requires a subscription for full functionality.
• Pricing: Free limited version; premium subscription starts at $5/month.
  

4. RemNote

• Description: RemNote is an all-in-one learning platform that combines note-taking and flashcards.
• Benefits:
  • Integrated Learning: Combines note-taking and spaced repetition in a singular experience.
  • Automatic Flashcard Creation: Automatically generates flashcards from notes to streamline studying.
  • Hierarchical Organization: Enables organizing information in a structured format, ideal for complex subjects.
• Drawbacks:
  • Complex Features: Might be overwhelming for users looking for a spaced repetition flashcard app.
  • Learning Curve: Takes time to fully leverage its comprehensive features.
• Pricing: Free basic plan; Pro version starts at $6/month.
  

5. Dekki

• Description: Dekki is a new AI-powered spaced repetition platform designed for learners to generate, learn, and share high-quality study content.
• Benefits:
  • Advanced Algorithm: Custom AI spaced repetition algorithm optimizes review intervals based on individual learning data.
  • Built-In AI Content Generation: Study content can be generated from PDFs or free text using the inbuilt AI generator.
  • Shared Community Content: Supports collaborative decks and resource sharing directly on the platform.
• Drawbacks:
  • Niche Community: Still growing its user base, having only launched in summer 2023.
  • Limited Offline Capabilities: Currently no offline mode available (coming soon!).
• Pricing: Dekki Basic is Free; Dekki Pro is $4.99/month
  

Conclusion

Each spaced repetition app offers unique benefits tailored to different learning preferences. Our advice? Assess your learning needs, try out these tools, and be blown away by the improvements to your study efficiency and effectiveness!

We’d recommend trying out Dekki if you’re new to spaced repetition and want an all-in-one study platform, or have been using these tools for a while and need a more efficient review algorithm with access to exclusive high-quality decks.

Happy studying! Unless, of course, you don’t use Dekki… then the Spaced Repetition Spirit will haunt you during next exam season 👻