Active Retrieval: Flashcards help trigger active retrieval of knowledge, enhancing memory and retention.
Effective Spacing: Flashcards make it easy to space out repetitions, allowing you to review material at the fact or concept level.
Micro-Learning: Flashcards enable micro-learning, allowing you to study in short, concentrated bursts.
Problems with Flashcards:
Lower-Order Learning: Flashcards are primarily suited for lower-order learning, such as direct recall and memorization.
Overwhelming: Using flashcards for all your learning can lead to an overwhelming number of cards to review.
Repetitive: Repetitive use of flashcards may lead to memorizing the cards themselves rather than the knowledge they represent.
The 3-Part Split Strategy:
Dr. Sung introduces a strategy to use flashcards effectively:
Targeted Review: In your long study sessions, start by reviewing flashcards you got wrong three times in a row. Dedicate 5-10 minutes per card to consolidate knowledge and build networks.
Consolidation and Preparation: During the week, review new material and create flashcards for facts and concepts. Focus on improving your encoding method to reduce the need for flashcards.
Preview: Before you forget the material, use short, regular sessions to preview new information. Previewing helps you retain knowledge and prevent overwhelm.
Upgrading Flashcards:
Combine flashcards with related content to create higher-order questions. For instance, merge flashcards about “protein synthesis” and “hormone reception” into a new question like “How do hormones influence protein synthesis?”