SuperMemo

SuperMemo (from Super Memory -- Memo in SuperMemo has nothing to do with a "memo" as in memorandum) is a learning method and software package developed by SuperMemo World in Poland from 1985 to the present. It is a practical application of the so-called spaced repetition that has been proposed for efficient instruction by a number of psychologists as early as in the 1930s. The author of the learning method, and lead programmer of the software, is Piotr Wozniak.

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Proponents of the method claim that it makes possible faster learning and indefinite retention of memories (with repetition). See "SuperMemo really works!" from the main SuperMemo website.

The method is available as a computer program for Windows, Windows CE, Palm Pilot, etc. It can also be used in a web browser or even without a computer. SuperMemo is based on research into long-term memory.

The Windows version of SuperMemo supports incremental reading.

Software implementation

The software implementation of the SuperMemo algorithm in its most rudimentary and basic form is simply this: A database of Question & Answer (Q&A) fields (or more practically, digital and electronic flash-cards). The database is either a pre-made collection, self-made, or in some cases both through Merging.

The software then traverses with the user through each element that is scheduled for repetition (a new set of "reps" is computed for each day on the calendar). The program gathers information about the user's memory through their responses and grades to their active recalls (conscious response to their questions -- giving a conscious answer as opposed to passive review).

In three simple steps, the reviewing (or repetition) process goes like this (from the user's perspective):

1. The user is given a question by SuperMemo
2. The user responds with an answer from their own mind (active recall)
3. The user gives themselves a grade of what best reflects their recall. (A-E grade, or 5-0 grade -- depending on what version and/or platform).

SuperMemo then calculates the necessary intervals for proposed repetitions of a single item or flash-cards.

See also

• Spaced repetition
• Flashcard
• Memory
• Forgetting curve