Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve Guide
140 Years of Verified Memory Science Principles and Modern Applications
The Ebbinghaus forgetting curve is the cornerstone of memory science, discovered by German psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus in 1885 through rigorous scientific experiments. This theory reveals the patterns of human memory forgetting and laid the scientific foundation for modern learning methods.
Discovery History
📜1885: Hermann Ebbinghaus published "Memory: A Contribution to Experimental Psychology"
📜Experimental method: Used nonsense syllables for memory experiments
📜Scientific rigor: First application of experimental psychology methods to memory research
📜Far-reaching impact: Became an important foundation for modern cognitive psychology
Scientific Principle
The Ebbinghaus forgetting curve describes how the retention rate of information in the brain changes over time.
Mathematical Formula:
R(t) = e^(-t/S)Formula Explanation:
R(t)Memory retention rate at time ttTime interval (usually in days)SMemory strength (affected by learning material difficulty and personal ability)eNatural constant (approximately 2.718)Key Findings:
⏰42% forgotten after 20 minutes
⏰56% forgotten after 1 hour
⏰74% forgotten after 1 day
⏰77% forgotten after 1 week
⏰79% forgotten after 1 month
Spaced Repetition Strategy
Based on the Ebbinghaus forgetting curve, scientists developed spaced repetition learning methods:
1
Day 1: First review after initial learning2
Day 2: Strengthen memory connections4
Day 4: Prevent rapid forgetting7
Day 7: Establish stable memory15
Day 15: Transfer to long-term memory30
Day 30: Ensure lasting retentionRelated Learning Resources
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