Retrieval Practice Checklist
Preparation
Identified key information that needs to be remembered long-term
Selected appropriate retrieval practice formats for the content type
Scheduled dedicated time for retrieval practice
Gathered necessary materials (blank paper, flashcards, etc.)
Removed access to original learning materials during practice
Created a distraction-free environment
Flashcard Implementation
Created cards with clear questions/prompts on front
Included complete, concise answers on back
Broke complex information into multiple cards
Included visual elements where helpful
Created cards requiring application, not just facts
Organized cards by topic or difficulty
Prepared bidirectional cards where appropriate
Added source references for further review if needed
Free Recall Practice
Selected specific topic or concept to recall
Used blank page or digital document
Set timer for focused recall session
Wrote down everything remembered without checking sources
Organized information logically rather than randomly
Included examples and applications, not just facts
Checked against original materials after exhausting recall
Noted gaps or errors in different color/format
Practice Question Implementation
Created questions covering key concepts and applications
Included mix of factual, conceptual, and application questions
Formulated “why” and “how” questions, not just “what”
Created questions that require explanation, not just identification
Developed questions that connect different topics
Set aside questions for at least 24 hours before answering
Answered questions without referring to notes
Checked answers and noted areas for review
Concept Mapping from Memory
Selected topic with multiple related concepts
Started with blank page or digital canvas
Created concept map entirely from memory
Included relationships and linking words between concepts
Added examples and applications where relevant
Compared to original materials after completion
Noted missing elements or incorrect relationships
“Teach It” Technique
Selected topic to explain as if teaching
Prepared minimal or no notes for reference
Explained concept aloud or in writing
Addressed potential questions or misconceptions
Created examples to illustrate key points
Noted points of hesitation or confusion
Identified areas needing further review
Feedback and Adjustment
Checked accuracy of retrieved information
Identified specific knowledge gaps
Noted patterns in what was forgotten
Adjusted future retrieval practice to target weak areas
Created additional practice for challenging content
Tracked retrieval success rates over time
Modified retrieval formats based on effectiveness
Scheduling and Spacing
Scheduled initial retrieval within 1-2 days of learning
Planned subsequent practice at increasing intervals
Set calendar reminders for spaced retrieval sessions
Adjusted intervals based on retrieval difficulty
Interleaved practice of different topics
Varied retrieval contexts and environments
Scheduled more frequent practice for high-priority information
Overcoming Challenges
Prepared encouraging self-talk for difficult retrieval
Started with easier retrieval to build confidence
Set time limits for challenging retrieval attempts
Used minimal hints when completely stuck
Maintained focus on learning benefits of struggle
Celebrated successful retrieval of difficult material
Tracked improvement over time for motivation