MEPX
Chapter 4 of 10All chapters
  1. 1How memory works
  2. 2Working memory
  3. 3Retrieval practice
  4. 4Spacing and interleaving
  5. 5Sleep and consolidation
  6. 6Study myths
  7. 7Understanding and elaboration
  8. 8Learning skills
  9. 9Memory techniques
  10. 10Putting it together

Chapter 4 of 10

Spacing and interleaving

When to study, and in what order.

Spacing

The same total time spread over days beats one long session. Reviewing at increasing intervals, just as recall starts to fade, is the most efficient schedule.

  • Spaced repetition software automates the interval calculation.
  • Cramming produces a score tomorrow and nothing next month.

Interleaving

Mixing problem types forces you to choose an approach rather than repeat one. Performance during practice drops and long-term learning improves.