How to make good flashcards

One idea per card

If a card has a paragraph on the back, you will not really test yourself: you will glance at it and decide that you knew most of it. Break big ideas into several small cards, each with one clear answer.

Ask a real question

A good front is a question you could be asked in an exam: "What does the slope of a velocity-time graph show?" is better than "Velocity-time graphs". The question makes you produce the answer instead of just recognising the topic.

Keep answers short

Aim for an answer you can say in a sentence or less. When an answer needs several parts, use several cards, or a numbered list that is short enough to recall.

• Definitions: the term on the front, a short plain-language definition on the back.
• Formulas: ask what the formula is, and make a second card for what each part means.
• Processes: one card per step, or "What comes after X?" cards.
• Fill in the blank: hide the key word in a sentence from your notes.

Use your own words and your own material

Cards made from your own notes match what your course teaches, and putting an idea into your own words is a form of studying in itself. Add a small example or picture when it helps you remember.

Review often and prune

Review a little each day. If a card keeps going wrong, split it, reword it or add an example. If a card is boring and always easy, it has done its job.