Active recall is a study method where you ask your brain to remember something without looking at your notes. Instead of reading a chapter over and over, you stop and try to recall the key points on your own. It’s a method supported by research (Rawson & Dunlosky, 2011; Roediger & Butler, 2011). Recalling information from memory strengthens the mental connection and helps you remember it longer. It’s not about how many times you go over your notes—it’s about how often you test yourself on them.
Take something like the process of digestion. After you study it once, put your notes away and try explaining it aloud or writing it down from memory. That’s an active recall study method.
Your brain retains information better when it has to work to find it. When you try to remember something without any help, your brain builds stronger pathways to that memory. The more you do it, the easier it becomes to bring that information back. The act of pulling information from memory improves understanding and recall better than rote memorising it or using passive study methods. This recall of information leads to stronger memory than re-exposure and is excellent for exam prep.
It’s a bit like trying to remember the steps to your favourite dance routine. If you keep looking at the video, you won’t remember the steps. However, if you try to follow the routine, you slowly learn it. This is why retrieval practice is more effective than just reading. Struggling a little is part of the process.
For many, studying means highlighting lines, writing notes or watching explanation videos. These give the sense that you are making use of good learning strategies. Although they are not effective learning techniques, as they do not help you remember. These techniques are a part of what is called passive studying.
Passive studying only makes you familiar with the content. If someone asked you a simple question from your notes, would you be able to answer it? That’s what active recall prepares you for. The difference matters when you’re sitting in an exam and can’t rely on your textbook.
Here are a few ways students use active recall during revision:
One-time active recall study method helps, but spaced recall helps even more. That’s where spaced repetition comes in. Here’s how it works:
Spacing out your revision forces your brain to retrieve information after small gaps. This helps convert it to long-term memory.
Active recall study method isn’t just for exam prep. It’s a helpful way to actually understand and remember what you learn. Over time, it can help reduce the amount of time you spend re-reading or learning. Moreover, it also builds confidence. You’re not guessing or relying on short-term memory, you know you know it.
If your current study methods rely heavily on highlighting or writing notes, it might be worth trying this approach. The active recall method of studying helps you do more with less time, and remember more with less effort later. It’s not a trick or shortcut, it’s just a smarter way to use your brain.
Read about other forms of study methods here!
Active recall is a powerful study method where you test your memory without notes, building stronger brain connections.
