What is Anki?
Anki is an open-source flashcard program built around spaced repetition. Instead of reviewing every card every day, it shows each card just before you are likely to forget it, which makes long-term memorisation more efficient.
Cards can include text, images, audio, video and scientific markup, and card layouts and review timing are fully customisable. Anki handles decks with over 100,000 cards and supports add-ons. The desktop version for Windows, macOS and Linux is free, AnkiDroid on Android is free, and AnkiWeb sync is free. The iOS app, AnkiMobile, is a one-time paid purchase that funds development.
Main Features
- Spaced repetition scheduling
- Cards with images, audio, video and LaTeX
- Free AnkiWeb sync between devices
- Customisable card templates and timing
- Thousands of shared decks
- Add-ons to extend the app
How to Get Started with Anki
- Download Anki for your computer from apps.ankiweb.net.
- Create a deck and add cards, or import a shared deck.
- Review the cards Anki shows you each day.
- Create a free AnkiWeb account to sync with your phone.
Anki Pricing
Anki desktop, AnkiDroid and AnkiWeb sync are free. AnkiMobile for iPhone and iPad is a one-time purchase of about $24.99 in the US.
Who Should Use It?
- Medical and law students
- Language learners
- Anyone preparing for exams
- Programmers memorising syntax
- Lifelong learners
Anki Alternatives
- Khan Academy: Free lessons and practice in maths, science and more.
- Desmos: Free online graphing calculator and maths tools.
- SoBrief: Book summaries you can read in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Anki free?
On computers and Android, yes, and sync is free. The iOS app AnkiMobile is a one-time paid purchase.
What is spaced repetition?
It is a method that shows information at increasing intervals, just before you would forget it.
Can I use other people's decks?
Yes. You can download shared decks from AnkiWeb and edit them.