Key takeaway: Creating spaced retrieval habits makes learning stick. 

It’s not just science that states regular, spaced practice helps you learn. It’s common sense. We know it to be true in sports and music as well as education. So why is it so hard?

The answer is a complex mix of motivation, a desire for immediate positive feedback and our lack of interest in revisiting something we have already done. 

One method for engaging in spaced retrieval is creating habits of mind. These habits can take a number of forms. We are going to look at one method that can be adapted to suit your learning needs and interests. 

Spacing practice over three short sessions promotes consistent engagement and regular practice.

Each session can be a maximum of 30 mins. It’s important to make time for spaced practice to seem achievable and straightforward. Reflection shouldn’t be time consuming!

Session 1: Recall– Once a week do an ‘info dump’ of what you’ve learnt and what you have forgotten you’ve learnt. It’s a simple act of retrieval that helps solidify key concepts and identify areas for further study. 

Session 2: Review – Create flashcards and summaries of what you have learnt and forgotten.

Session 3: Test – Engage in quizzing using the flashcards created in session 2.

With these regular habits you are much more likely to recall important information. This will make studying and elaborating on learning even easier!