Evidence-based study guidance recommends retrieval practice and spacing learning across two or more lessons, while an app can only support the review routine. Anki schedules the next review from a learner's recall rating; Quizlet's current support page says its spaced-repetition mode is available on its website, so check device access before choosing.
Flashcards are useful when the learner has clear questions to retrieve and a regular time to review them. Compare how an app creates cards, schedules reviews, works on the devices the learner uses, and handles shared sets.
Look for active recall and spacing
The Australian Education Research Organisation’s guide recommends spacing learning across two or more lessons and asking learners to recall information rather than simply rereading it. It also describes retrieval practice as more than rote recall: students should answer conceptual questions and apply what they know in different contexts.
For flashcards, that means the learner should try to produce an answer before seeing it. An app’s schedule can remind them when to review, but it cannot decide whether a card is accurate, understandable or useful for the course.
Compare the app workflows
| Tool | Review flow | Device and deck considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Anki | The learner rates recall, and Anki schedules the next review. Decks organize cards by subject or course. | Anki offers a free computer version, an official paid iOS app and AnkiDroid for Android, developed by contributors. |
| Quizlet | The spaced-repetition mode uses the learner’s recall rating to decide when a card appears again. | Quizlet’s help page currently says this mode is available on its website. Its page also describes choosing between spaced repetition and other flashcard study modes. |
| Paper cards | The learner writes the question and answer, then decides when to revisit each card. | Works without a device, but the learner manages the review schedule and organization. |
The Anki site explains its recall-based scheduling and app options. Quizlet’s help article documents the current spaced-repetition steps and device availability. Recheck product help before relying on a feature, since app features can change.
Match the tool to the learner
- Choose a system where the learner can make, correct and organize their own cards without turning setup into the main activity.
- Check whether the required review mode works on the device available for regular study.
- Look for a manageable limit on new cards each day. A large queue can make review hard to sustain.
- Use cards for terms, dates, formulas and concise prompts. Add worked problems, writing or discussion when the subject requires explanation and application.
- Check school or family rules before creating accounts or sharing a learner’s work.
For course platforms and enrollment tracks, see MOOCs and online courses. Compare math program approaches and the phonics program checklist for examples of structured practice in specific subjects.
Browse study tools and classroom guides.
Common questions
What does spaced repetition mean?
It means returning to information at planned intervals across separate study sessions instead of reviewing everything in one sitting.
Does Anki schedule reviews automatically?
Anki uses the learner's recall rating to schedule when a card should come up again.
Can I use Quizlet spaced repetition on a phone?
Quizlet's current help page says its spaced-repetition study mode is available on the website. Check the help page again before relying on a particular device.
Are flashcards enough to study a subject?
Cards can prompt recall of key information, but learners also need practice explaining ideas and applying them to new questions.