What the Research Says

Spaced repetition means revisiting material at increasing intervals. This exploits the spacing effect: revisiting information just as you’re about to forget it produces a stronger memory than re-reading when it’s still fresh.

Step-by-Step Method

1. 1
   Start 8 weeks before the exam — Plot when you will cover each text and mark return visits at increasing intervals.
2. 2
   First pass (Week 1) — One text per day. Brain dumps, quote recall, theme summaries.
3. 3
   Return (3 days later) — Test yourself. Cover notes and recall. Fill gaps with a different colour.
4. 4
   Second return (1 week later) — Focus on quotes and facts that keep disappearing.
5. 5
   Final pass (exam week) — Quick review only. Consolidate, don’t learn new material.

Tools That Help

• StudyVault flashcards: The built-in Leitner system automatically spaces reviews at optimal intervals
• Colour-coded calendar: Assign each text a colour and mark revision days
• The “forget and recall” test: If you remember a quote after a week without revision, it’s in long-term memory