SuperMemo

SuperMemo vs. other spaced-repetition software

When Michal and I started Antimoon in 2001, Piotr Wozniak's SuperMemo was the only science-based software that enabled you to keep thousands of words and phrases in your memory in exchange for about 10 minutes of your time every day.

In recent years, other developers have started using Wozniak's research to build similar applications (usually called spaced-repetition software or SRS). Nearly all of them are based on SM2, an ancient version of the SuperMemo algorithm. The two most popular "SuperMemo alternatives" are Anki and Mnemosyne (both free).

Most of the information in this section applies to Anki and Mnemosyne as well as SuperMemo.

What is SuperMemo and what can it do for you? It is an advanced computer program which can help you build an impressive knowledge of English.

  • How does it work? You add some knowledge to SuperMemo (e.g. 100 English words), and every day you review part of the knowledge (e.g. 5 words). In the process, SuperMemo collects information about your memory.
  • Why is it good? 1) If you add something to SuperMemo, you will not forget it. 2) You can keep a lot in your head, but do very little work every day.
  • What are the results? SuperMemo can help you increase your vocabulary, improve your grammar, learn pronunciation, and amaze all your friends with your progress!
  • Getting SuperMemo is easy. You can buy and download versions for Windows, the Pocket PC, and the Palm Pilot in just a few minutes.

Me and SuperMemo — Tom writes about his personal experience with SuperMemo — from 1993 to 2002. He talks about his motivation for using SuperMemo and his excellent results while learning English in high school.

Review of SuperMemo for Pocket PC — the easiest-to-use version of SuperMemo that lets you learn anywhere. Unfortunately, adding words and sentences with the stylus will slow you down.

Using SuperMemo to learn English

The manuals available from the developer of SuperMemo are somewhat complicated and they are not designed for learners of English. In Antimoon's manual, you will learn the basics of using SuperMemo for learning English:

  1. Getting, installing and uninstalling SuperMemo
  2. Starting your first collection
  3. Memorizing and reviewing knowledge
  4. Making items for English learning

Downloadable SuperMemo collections

The best way to use SuperMemo is to add your own stuff to memorize. However, you can also buy and download ready-made SuperMemo collections for learning English:

PerfectPronunciation is Antimoon's software for learning English pronunciation, which is based on SuperMemo technology. It teaches you the pronunciation of the most frequently used English words. In addition to the "standalone" version, PerfectPronunciation is also available as a SuperMemo collection compatible with SuperMemo 2004 and higher.

The SuperMemo Library has some collections for English learners. We have looked at most of them, and chosen the best ones:

More collections are available.