How to Use Spaced Repetition & Anki Decks in Language Learning
by ADROS VERSE EDUCATION
Repetition is an old learning technique. Rote learning relies on memorization based on repetition. The more you practice the repeated material, the faster you will recall it. Think of a simple flashcard system, in which the cards are presented to you over and over until you memorize all the material.
A major shortcoming of this old repetition technique is that it relies on equal exposure to the studied material. In real life, the learner will recall each part of the studied material at a different pace. Some parts of the material will be easy, and thus learned faster, whereas other parts may require more repetition before they are recalled more effectively by the learner.
An alternative to this technique is spaced repetition. Spaced repetition places more weight on words that the learner is likely to forget and promotes revisiting them at optimal intervals. The method leverages the brain’s natural learning patterns, ensuring long-term retention and countering the natural “forgetting curve.” Thus, you could incorporate spaced repetition into your language learning routine for a more efficient and enjoyable experience.
Introduction to Anki & Spaced Repetition
Many people use spaced repetition to reduce the time and effort required to learn a foreign language. One of the most popular software among students and language learners is Anki. The word “Anki” in Japanese means “memorization.” It is an application developed by Damien Elmes in 2006 that uses an algorithm called SM-2, developed by SuperMemo. The software seems to offer many features while maintaining a reasonable level of simplicity.
Anki is an open-source spaced-repetition software (SRS) that allows you to make custom digital flashcards in any language. It is particularly useful when learning new vocabulary and phrases, but some advanced features can also be used to test your grammar skills. The cards are reviewed at predetermined intervals to help you remember the material. With your computer or phone, you can study from anywhere. It is very convenient!
To achieve best results when learning a foreign language, we recommend that you study the material and then review it using a spaced-repetition software (SRS) like Anki. To start using Anki to learn languages, you can create your own flashcards or take advantage of premade cards like our Spanish, Portuguese, Italian and French Anki decks.
At ADROS VERSE EDUCATION S.R.L., we have created study material for the main Romance languages: Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, and French. By studying the material in the book and then reviewing the related Anki flashcards, you are provided with an intuitive path to improving your language vocabulary, pronunciation, and grammar skills.
Tracking Progress & Overcoming Challenges
You can use the statistics features on Anki to help you track the progress of your learning journey. You can always adjust how many cards you review per day. This helps you ensure a comfortable pace and maintain progress. Knowing your weak areas allows you to invest more time and effort to study the challenging topics. You can also see how much time you spend each day on Anki. This helps in managing your study time better.
You can start with reviewing 20 cards each day until you build a routine. Then, you can gradually increase the workload as you feel more comfortable. Setting achievable goals and maintaining consistency are quite important when it comes to mastering a new language.
Conclusion
Spaced repetition is a technique that optimizes memory retention by strategically scheduling reviews of the learned material. Anki decks utilize spaced repetition to make learning a new language more interactive and fun. Set goals and be consistent to improve your language skills and achieve proficiency.
Author Bio
Adros Verse Education S.R.L. is a passionate language learning company who are on a mission to turn learning a new language into a fun, easy, and interactive experience! Through a dedicated collection of educational material, including extensive books and flashcards through the Anki software, we are committed to empowering readers of all ages and backgrounds to achieve their language-learning goals.
As the publisher of Learn & Retain Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, and French With Spaced Repetition, as well as numerous collections of Anki flashcards to suit beginner and advanced learners, Adros Verse Education S.R.L. aims to provide people with an informative and user-friendly approach to picking up new vocabulary, learning new phrases, and building confidence through the powerful spaced repetition methodology.
