Spaced Repetition Explained: The Science of Remembering Vocabulary
2 min read
Ever wonder why you forget new words so quickly after learning them? It’s not your fault — it’s how memory works. The key to long-term vocabulary retention is spaced repetition. Here’s how it works and why it matters.
The Forgetting Curve
Psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus discovered that we forget information in a predictable way — quickly at first, then more slowly over time. Without review, most knowledge is gone within days.
How Spaced Repetition Works
Spaced repetition counters forgetting by reviewing words right before you would normally forget them. Each successful recall strengthens memory, so the review intervals get longer and longer:
- Day 1 → review immediately
- Day 2 → review again
- Day 5 → review again
- Day 12 → review again
- …and so on
This keeps words active in your memory without wasting time on over-reviewing.
Why It Works for Vocabulary
- Efficient → You only review what you need, when you need it.
- Long-term retention → Words move into long-term memory.
- Low stress → No more cramming or feeling like you’re falling behind.
Tools That Use Spaced Repetition
Popular flashcard apps like Anki, SuperMemo, and Mora all use spaced repetition to optimize your reviews. Mora also makes it easy for beginners with a clean interface and both front-to-back and back-to-front study modes.
Final Thoughts
Spaced repetition is the single most effective way to learn and keep vocabulary. Instead of studying harder, study smarter — and let your app handle the scheduling.
👉 Try Mora for free to see spaced repetition in action for your language learning.