The Leitner System is a great strategy to study effectively and maximize learning by taking advantage of recall memory and spaced practice. This method requires pre-made flashcards and works best when you have already studied the material beforehand. It also utilizes a systematic procedure that prioritizes material you need to improve on the most.

What you will need:

• Flashcards
• Labeled envelopes (x3)
  • Option 1:
    • Every day
    • Tuesday & Thursday
    • Friday
  • Option 2:
    • Every day
    • Day 2 & 4
    • Day 5

Set-up:

Each day you will practice cards in the “Every day” + [current day] envelopes.

• If the day is Monday then only use the “Every day” pile.
• If the day is Tuesday then use the “Every day” and “Tuesday & Thursday” piles.
• If the day is Wednesday then only use the “Every day” pile.
• If the day is Thursday then use the “Every day” and “Tuesday & Thursday” piles.
• If the day is Friday then use the “Every day” and “Friday” piles.
• If the day is Saturday or Sunday then only use the “Every day” pile.

Order:

• Option 1: Every day > Tuesday & Thursday > Friday
• Option 2: Every day > Day 2 & 4 > Day 5

How it works:

• For every card you answer correctly, move it forward one space from its original spot.
• For every card you answer incorrectly, move it back one space from its original spot (if it was originally from the first envelope put it back).

Do this every day until you have mastered all of the cards. You can repeat this cycle as frequently as you like.

Step-by-Step Examples:

• Day 1 (Monday)
  • Start on the first “Every day” envelope
    • If you got it right, move it to the second envelope (Tuesday & Thursday)
    • If you got it wrong, move it back to the first envelope (Every day)

• Day 4 (Thursday)
  • Start on the first “Every day” envelope
    • If you got it right, move it to the second envelope (Tuesday & Thursday)
    • If you got it wrong, move it back to the first envelope (Every day)
  • Start on the second “Tuesday & Thursday” envelope
    • If you got it right, move it to the third envelope (Friday)
    • If you got it wrong, move it back to the first envelope (Every day)

• Day 5 (Friday)
  • Start on the first “Every day” envelope
    • If you got it right, move it to the second envelope (Tuesday & Thursday)
    • If you got it wrong, move it back to the first envelope (Every day)
  • Start on the third “Friday” envelope
    • If you got it right, you’re done with those!
    • If you got it wrong, move it back to the second envelope (Tuesday & Thursday)