🧠 Spaced Repetition
Master DSA problems using the science of memory retention
What is Spaced Repetition?
Spaced Repetition is a learning technique that involves reviewing information at increasing intervals over time. Instead of cramming or constant review, you revisit problems just as you're about to forget them.
This approach is scientifically proven to maximize long-term retention while minimizing study time - perfect for mastering hundreds of DSA problems!
📉The Forgetting Curve
German psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus discovered that we forget information rapidly over time unless we actively review it. Without review, you might forget 75% of what you learned within just a few days!
Day 1: 100% → Day 2: 60% → Day 7: 25% remembered
Strategic reviews strengthen memory pathways each time
Spaced repetition works by reviewing information right before you're likely to forget it, strengthening the memory trace each time and pushing the forgetting curve further out.
🔄How It Works for DSA
Initial Learning
You solve a problem for the first time. Your understanding is fresh, but the memory is fragile.
First Review (1 day later)
Review the problem after one day. You might struggle a bit, but re-solving strengthens the memory.
Second Review (3 days later)
The interval increases. The memory is stronger now and can last longer before fading.
Subsequent Reviews (7, 14, 30 days...)
Each review pushes the next interval further. Eventually, the problem becomes part of your long-term memory.
📅Recommended Review Schedule
| Review # | Interval | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Solve | Day 0 | Solve problem, write notes, commit to GitHub |
| Review 1 | +1 day | Try to solve from memory, check approach |
| Review 2 | +3 days | Solve again, focus on edge cases |
| Review 3 | +7 days | Quick solve, review similar problems |
| Review 4 | +14 days | Verify you can still solve efficiently |
| Review 5 | +30 days | Final review before long-term retention |
| Mastered ✓ | +60+ days | Occasional review as needed |
Pro Tip: If you struggle during a review, shorten the next interval. If it's too easy, extend it. Adjust based on your retention!
🔧Using the Revisions Tab
AlgoChronicle tracks your revision schedule automatically. Visit the Revisions page to:
- ✓See which problems are due for review today
- ✓Track your revision history for each problem
- ✓Mark problems as reviewed to update the schedule
- ✓Filter by difficulty, pattern, or platform
✨Benefits of Spaced Repetition for DSA
Long-term Retention
Problems move from short-term to long-term memory. You'll remember solutions months later.
Efficient Learning
Spend time only on problems you're about to forget. No wasted effort on what you already know well.
Pattern Recognition
Reviewing similar problems helps you recognize patterns faster during interviews.
Confidence Boost
Seeing your mastery grow with each review builds confidence for technical interviews.
💡Best Practices
- 1.Be honest with yourself: If you can't solve it from memory, mark it for earlier review
- 2.Focus on understanding: Don't just memorize solutions - understand the "why" behind the approach
- 3.Write detailed notes: Future you will thank you for clear explanations
- 4.Solve variations: During reviews, try solving similar problems to test understanding
- 5.Stay consistent: Regular daily reviews are more effective than cramming
- 6.Track patterns: Group problems by algorithmic patterns for better learning