How Spaced Repetition Works
BeeMind uses the scientifically-proven SM-2 algorithm to optimize when you review information, helping you remember more with less effort.
The Forgetting Curve
Without review, we forget about 50% of new information within an hour, and up to 90% within a week. This is called the forgetting curve, discovered by Hermann Ebbinghaus in 1885.
But here's the good news: reviewing information at precisely the right moments can dramatically slow down this curve and move knowledge into long-term memory.
The Solution: Spaced Repetition
Instead of cramming or random review, spaced repetition schedules reviews at increasing intervals. Each successful recall strengthens the memory and extends the time until the next review.
Example Review Timeline
The SM-2 Algorithm
BeeMind uses SM-2, developed by Piotr WoΕΊniak in 1987. It's the foundation of successful spaced repetition software like Anki and SuperMemo.
Hard
You struggled to remember this.
What happens:
- β’ Card resets to day 1
- β’ Ease factor decreases
- β’ More frequent reviews
Good
You remembered after some thought.
What happens:
- β’ Interval increases normally
- β’ Ease factor stays similar
- β’ Steady progress
Easy
You remembered it instantly.
What happens:
- β’ Interval increases more
- β’ Ease factor increases
- β’ Longer time until next review
How It Works Technically
1 Ease Factor (EF)
Each card has an "ease factor" that starts at 2.5. This number determines how quickly the interval grows. Cards you find easy get higher ease factors (up to ~3.0), while difficult cards get lower ease factors (minimum 1.3).
Where q is the quality of your response (2=Hard, 3=Good, 4=Easy)
2 Interval Calculation
The time between reviews is calculated based on your performance:
First review:
Always 1 day after capturing
Second review:
7 days after first review (configurable)
Subsequent reviews:
Next Interval = Current Interval Γ Ease Factor Γ Pace Multiplier
3 Review Pace
You can adjust the overall review frequency with three pace settings:
Relaxed
1.5Γ
Longer intervals, fewer reviews
Normal
1.0Γ
Balanced (default)
Intense
0.8Γ
Shorter intervals, more reviews
Why This Works So Well
Efficient Learning
You review items just before you're about to forget them. No wasted time reviewing things you already know cold.
Personalized
Every card adapts to your performance. Difficult concepts get more frequent reviews, easy ones less.
Scientifically Proven
Decades of research show spaced repetition is one of the most effective learning techniques available.
Self-Correcting
Made a mistake? The algorithm automatically adjusts, scheduling more frequent reviews until you've mastered it.
BeeMind's Smart Features
We've enhanced the classic SM-2 algorithm with intelligent automation
Auto-Remember
Tell BeeMind what topics you care about in natural language. As you capture notes, AI automatically identifies matching content and adds it to your review queue. No manual tagging required.
Smart Notifications
Get reminded when reviews are due. Configure your daily review time and limit to fit your schedule and learning pace.
Progress Tracking
See your success rate, total reviews, and upcoming schedule. Watch your knowledge compound over time with visual statistics.
Start remembering more today
Let science and AI work together to help you build a better memory.
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