Anki: the ultimate tool for learning

As a software engineer, I’m constantly learning new things. The challenge isn’t just absorbing information - it’s retaining what I’ve learned while continuing to grow. Anki has become my go-to tool for making learning both enjoyable and efficient.

What Makes Anki Special

Anki isn’t just another flashcard app. It’s built with focus on spaced repetition, a learning technique that shows you material right before you’re about to forget it. This timing makes the study sessions incredibly efficient.

Key Features

• Works everywhere: Free on Windows, Mac, Linux, and Android (iOS costs $25). Everything syncs perfectly between devices.
• Flexible content: Basic text, LaTeX math formulas, images, audio - you can study anything. This flexibility is crucial when tackling diverse topics.
• Smart organization: Hierarchical decks and tags keep everything organized. You can import and export decks to share with others.
• Advanced techniques: Features like cloze deletion and image occlusion make studying more effective.

My Experience

I wish I’d discovered Anki during university. Now, as I refresh my math knowledge and work through computer science papers, it’s become essential. By memorizing core definitions and concepts, I can derive most complex results I need.

Anki has a DIY feel - you won’t find polished, pre-made decks for every topic. But this actually helps. Creating your own cards forces you to engage with the material more deeply, which is especially valuable for challenging subjects.

Why More People Should Know About It

It’s surprising how few engineers know about Anki, especially compared to mainstream apps like Duolingo. For serious learners who want to retain knowledge long-term, Anki’s customizable approach offers huge advantages. The trade-off is that it requires more setup and maintenance.

Takeaway

Anki isn’t perfect for every learning style or subject. But for building and maintaining foundational knowledge, it’s unmatched. If you’re serious about learning - whether as a student or lifelong learner - it’s worth trying.