Forgetting Curve advert image shown if present

Image shown for entry if relevant and present

A visual representation of how memory declines over time if there is no attempt to retain the learning that originally took place.

Regular recall of material helps to extend the period over which forgetting takes place, initially recalling information after a day or two of the first learning, then at gradually increasing intervals.

This helps to reset the forgetting curve and retains more information in memory for easier recall.

Known as the Ebbinghaus forgetting curve (after a 19th century psychologist) who stated that improving memory could be enhanced by the use of mnemonics and spaced repetition of recall of what had been learnt.