We feel guilty for all that we have not yet read, but overlook how much better read we already are than Augustine or Dante, thereby ignoring that our problem lies squarely with our manner of absorption rather than with the extent of our consumption. – Alain de Botton
Frustrated with how much information I continually forget, I began to invest time a few years ago into memorizing the most interesting stuff I came across: quotes, facts, trends, even singing tips.
It’s been a game changer, a small but valuable part of my daily routine.
I use Anki, a type of spaced repetition software. Humans forget things on a fairly predictable schedule, and Anki uses that schedule to remind you right when you’re about to forget. Like a nagging spouse with perfect timing. The reminders grow less frequent over time, as your memory of an item improves.
Here are some screenshots of Anki’s desktop app in use (I use the mobile app more):
The above is the main dashboard. It shows how many cards I have in my deck (2007) and how many cards I review each day: on average, 67.
The above is an example quote I try to memorize. Along with quotes, I’ll create question-and-answer cards, true/false cards, fill in the ______ cards.
…and the full quote. You give yourself a grade (fail, hard, good, easy). And continue reviewing.
There are many versions of Anki SRS. I use AnkiApp. It’s good enough, but if you know a better app, please share!
After using Anki for years, I’ve noticed that it’s changed my approach to learning new information. I now divide every new piece of knowledge into three categories. Category one is “do nothing with it”. Which means I will pretty much forget it. Category two is “save it”, usually into Evernote. Category three is “remember it”, which means I create a card in Anki.
If you have a poor memory and it frustrates you to no end, give Anki a shot. I’m here if you want to chat!
PS. I debated sharing my cards but they’re so eclectic and obscure that it’s probably a distraction…