How Your Confidence Ratings Guide Brainscape’s Learning Algorithm Artwork

Knowledge Rehab

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Knowledge Rehab

How Your Confidence Ratings Guide Brainscape’s Learning Algorithm

December 18, 2025 • Brainscape

Most tests are graded right or wrong — but learning doesn’t work that way. In this video, Andrew from Brainscape explains why the Brainscape flashcard app uses a 5-point confidence scale instead of marking answers as “right” or “wrong,” and how this system is grounded in cognitive science, spaced repetition, and the Leitner System.

You’ll learn how rating your confidence — not just correctness — leads to faster learning, better memory retention, and more efficient study sessions. If you’re studying for exams, learning a language, or optimizing your study habits, this video explains the science behind one of the most effective flashcard systems available.

⬇️ Jump to a section:

00:00 Why Right vs. Wrong Fails as a Learning Method

01:16 The Leitner System & Spaced Repetition Explained

02:15 How Brainscape Automates Spaced Repetition

03:56 Why Brainscape Asks “How Well Did You Know This?” After Each Flashcard

05:54 Final Thoughts

💡 Want to dive deeper? Check out these related articles and resources to level up your study game:

👉 What Is Confidence-Based Repetition (& Why Does It Make Learning Feel Effortless)?

👉 The Complete Cognitive Science Behind Brainscape

👉 Comparing Spaced Repetition Algorithms

👉 What is Spaced Repetition (& Why Is It Key To All Learning)?

Or browse our collection of study-related articles

➡️https://www.brainscape.com/academy/

📚🧠 Brainscape is the leading adaptive flashcard app that uses the power of cognitive science and spaced repetition to help you study faster and remember information longer. Whether you’re preparing for exams, learning a new language, or just trying to improve your memory, Brainscape gives you smarter study tools to boost your focus and make learning more effective.

Join millions of students, teachers, and professionals using Brainscape to study smarter, not harder — anytime, anywhere, on any device.

📚 Check out Brainscape.com for millions of flashcards that have already been created—or create your own for any subject you're learning.

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Android – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.brainscape.mobile.portal