---
title: "Anki, Human Memory in a Digital World"
description: "In this post, I discuss the importance of human memory in the digital age, where information flows constantly. I also share my workflow for using flashcards and digital tools to retain knowledge."
url: "https://hoeijmakers.net/human-memory-in-a-digital-world/"
date: 2024-09-18
updated: 2025-04-13
author: "Rob Hoeijmakers"
site: "hoeijmakers.net"
language: "en"
tags: ["AI in Practice"]
---

# Anki, Human Memory in a Digital World

Is memorising information still important to you? For me, it’s essential. As information flows more freely and rapidly, the real challenge is ensuring that you make it your own.

I recently wrote about [ChatGPT’s memory](https://hoeijmakers.net/chatgpts-memory/), which I really like for its ability to recall and manage details across conversations. But now, I want to shift the focus to human memory and the role it plays in navigating today’s overwhelming flow of information.

## My approach to memorising

Memorising for me is a multi-step process, built on several foundations: using flashcards, making mind maps (MindNode), reading from paper or [an e-reader](https://hoeijmakers.net/reading-webpages-on-your-kindle/), [taking notes](https://hoeijmakers.net/kobo-highlights-and-notes-to-your-mac/), [writing blogs](https://hoeijmakers.net/blog-writing-workflow/) and even having conversations with [ChatGPT while I walk](https://hoeijmakers.net/this-week-chatgpt-learned-to-draw-see-and-talk/).

Each of these elements plays a part in ensuring that the information I encounter sticks with me. But in this article, I want to share the most effective tool in my process: my **flashcards app Anki**and the workflow that supports it.

## My flashcards workflow: From reading to retention

When I come across an important document, such as a report, I often read it on my e-reader to maintain focus. While reading, or after I’ve finished, I upload the document to ChatGPT or Google NotebookLM to help break down and summarise the key points. I then ask it to generate flashcards based on this content.

These flashcards are exported as a CSV file and imported into Anki, my go-to app for spaced repetition learning. By reviewing these flashcards regularly, I reinforce the material over time, making sure the most important information is retained.

This process is powerful because it combines active engagement—through reading, summarising, and creating flashcards—with the spaced repetition technique, which optimises memory retention.

And above all, it is so smooth, it is fun!

## Why this workflow works

By combining reading, digital tools, and flashcards, I create a system that balances technology with human memory. The digital tools streamline the process of summarising and creating learning materials, while Anki helps ensure that the knowledge is reinforced at the right intervals.

The added layer of review and repetition solidifies my understanding, turning fleeting information into lasting memory.

---

**Related**
- [Anki - powerful, intelligent flashcards](https://apps.ankiweb.net)
- [Spaced repetition - Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spaced_repetition)