Active Recall for Exam Preparation

Active Recall Method

• The problem: Inability to recall information during exams despite extensive studying.
• Cause: Passive reading of notes, which leads to low information retention.
  • Retention rate: Only 10% of information is retained through passive reading.
• Solution: Implement the active recall method.
  • Retention rate: Active recall retains at least double the information compared to passive reading.
• Relevance: Particularly useful in college due to application-based questions. This will force you to create neural connections on the topics that you struggle with.

Technique

• Tools needed: Practice questions or flashcards.
• Method: Using practice tests to identify areas of weakness.
• Process:
  • Take a practice test.
  • For each incorrect answer, understand the reason behind the mistake.
  • Refer to notes to clarify the concepts related to the incorrect answers.
  • After every five practice tests, redo all the previously incorrect tests.

Effectiveness

• Active recall forces the creation of neural connections, especially for areas of weakness.
• This makes it a highly effective method for learning and retention.