ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the benefits of having a time gap between study episodes (distributed practice) and the benefits of attempting to retrieve information from memory (retrieval practice), such as through self-testing. It also discusses two key factors that influence the long-term durability of memory. The first key is distributed practice, which involves using a study schedule in which you spread out study episodes over time and the second key factor is retrieval practice, or practicing retrieving information from memory. The chapter focuses on improving learning and memory by retrieving information from long-term memory. Retrieval practice is the act of attempting to activate information from memory, such as through testing or attempting to recall information. Attempt to recall information from memory rather than attempting to recognize information, such as answering multiple-choice questions. Retrieving information after a very short delay is somewhat similar to rote rehearsal, which leads to very low rates of recall on delayed measures of learning.
