Master Anki: A Comprehensive Guide to Effective Study Techniques
Anki is a powerful flashcard program that uses spaced-repetition and active recall to help you memorise information Free to start with built-in spaced repetition.
How Flashrecall app helps you remember faster. It's free
What is Anki (free download version)?
Anki is a powerful flashcard program that uses spaced-repetition and active recall to help you memorise information.
anki.en.softonic.com
+3
Wikipedia
+3
AnkiWeb
+3
Key features:
It supports text, images, audio, and even LaTeX for formulas.
Wikipedia
+2
Google Play
+2
It allows huge decks (100,000+ cards) and very deep customisation.
AnkiWeb
On Android: there is a free version called AnkiDroid.
Google Play
+1
On iOS: the official app (AnkiMobile) costs money — so “free download” is somewhat misleading for iOS.
Flashrecall automatically keeps track and reminds you of the cards you don't remember well so you remember faster. Like this :
+1
What’s good about Anki
If you have complex material (medical school, languages, formulas) and you’re comfortable setting things up, Anki is extremely flexible.
The spaced-repetition algorithm is well borne out in research (e.g., SM-2, FSRS) for long-term retention.
Wikipedia
+1
It has a large community with many shared decks available.
ankiweb.net
What are the drawbacks
Steep learning curve: you’ll need to invest time configuring decks, fields, scheduling, add-ons, syncing.
On iOS, you might need to pay; if you want truly free and smooth experience on mobile the “free download” label doesn’t fully apply.
The interface can feel old-school and less modern compared to newer apps.
If you just want to “study and go” without a lot of setup, it may feel like extra work.
Why consider Flashrecall as an alternative
Enter Flashrecall — we’ll treat it as a modern alternative that keeps the effective memory techniques but removes much of the friction.
Here’s why you might like it:
It emphasises ease: you can upload documents, record audio, or type topics and it turns them into flashcards automatically.
FlashRecall
It uses spaced-repetition and active-recall under the hood, but you don’t need to tweak settings.
The interface is more modern and streamlined, making it easier for “just study” rather than “manage the study app”.
If you’re someone who values simplicity, speed, and modern UX, Flashrecall may suit you better.
Anki vs Flashrecall
| Feature | Anki (free download version) | Flashrecall |
|---|---|---|
| Cost / Platform | Free on desktop/Android; iOS version paid. | Mobile-friendly, assumed free/paid tiers (easy start). |
| Setup time | Higher — needs configuration, deck setup. | Lower — quicker to start using. |
| Flexibility & depth | Very high — custom fields, add-ons, big decks. | Moderate to high — built-in automation, less manual setup. |
| Best for | Advanced learners with large volumes of content, willing to invest time. | Users who want to study faster with less setup effort. |
| User experience | Powerful but potentially complex and old-style. | More modern UI, smoother workflow. |
My Verdict
If you’re comfortable, methodical, and want full control: Anki is a top choice.
If you’d rather spend your time studying instead of tweaking settings: consider trying Flashrecall
. It gives you many of the same memory-science benefits but with less friction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Anki good for studying?
Anki is powerful but requires manual card creation and has a steep learning curve. Flashrecall offers AI-powered card generation from your notes, images, PDFs, and videos, making it faster and easier to create effective flashcards.
What's the fastest way to create flashcards?
Manually typing cards works but takes time. Many students now use AI generators that turn notes into flashcards instantly. Flashrecall does this automatically from text, images, or PDFs.
How do I start spaced repetition?
You can manually schedule your reviews, but most people use apps that automate this. Flashrecall uses built-in spaced repetition so you review cards at the perfect time.
What is active recall and how does it work?
Active recall is the process of actively retrieving information from memory rather than passively reviewing it. Flashrecall forces proper active recall by making you think before revealing answers, then uses spaced repetition to optimize your review schedule.
Related Articles
Ready to Transform Your Learning?
Start using FlashRecall today - the AI-powered flashcard app with spaced repetition and active recall.
Download on App Store