Quizzing: A Proven Technique for Long-Term Language Learning
We often focus on cramming vocabulary lists or rereading grammar rules when learning a new language. But how much of that information do we truly retain? If you're like most learners, the answer might be “not enough.” Enter quizzing is a game-changing technique scientifically proven to enhance memory and make learning stick for long-term language learning.
Let me explain what quizzing is, its history, how to use it in language learning, and why it’s one of my favorite tools for building lasting fluency.
What is Quizzing for Long-Term Language Learning?
Quizzing, also known as retrieval practice, is a learning method where you actively recall information instead of passively reviewing it.
Think of it as testing yourself—not to see what you know but to strengthen what you’re learning. Every time you retrieve a piece of information, you solidify it in your memory and make it easier to access in the future.
This technique isn’t about perfection; it’s about practicing recall to improve over time.
The beauty of quizzing lies in its simplicity.
All you need is a way to challenge your memory—whether that’s flashcards, a quiz app, or simply writing down what you remember from a recent lesson.
A Bit of History: Who First Used Quizzing?
The concept of retrieval practice dates back to the late 19th century when German psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus studied memory and learning.
Ebbinghaus developed the “forgetting curve,” showing how quickly we lose new information without review. Quizzing emerged as an effective way to combat this decline by reinforcing knowledge at just the right intervals.
Later, cognitive scientists like Henry L. Roediger III and Jeffrey D. Karpicke popularized quizzing as a powerful educational tool. Their research proved that testing isn’t just for assessment—it’s one of the best ways to learn and retain information.
Why Retrieval Practice Works
Many learners fall into the trap of thinking they’ve mastered something simply by re-reading or reviewing materials.
But when the information is right in front of you, it doesn’t challenge your brain actually to retrieve it from memory.
Retrieval Practice works because it forces external aids, strengthening your memory and making the knowledge stick for the long term.
For example, studies have shown that 5 minutes of retrieval practice (or “quizzing”) can be as effective as 25 minutes of traditional studying like re-reading. That’s five times more efficient—a major win for busy language learners!
How to Use Retrieval Practice for Long-Term Language Learning
Here are some simple ways to incorporate Retrieval Practice into your language studies:
💡Teach What You’ve Learned
Put your materials away and explain what you’ve learned to someone else—a friend, a family member, or even a pet! Teaching forces you to recall information and organize your thoughts clearly, which strengthens your memory.
💡Quiz Yourself
Write questions about the material you’ve studied and answer them without looking. For instance, if you’ve learned a list of vocabulary words, test yourself by saying or writing their meanings in your native language (or vice versa).
💡Sketch It Out
Draw visual representations of concepts, like mind maps or timelines. For example, if you’re studying verb tenses, sketch a timeline showing where each tense fits.
The claim that 5 minutes of retrieval practice can be as effective as 25 minutes of traditional studying stems from research in cognitive psychology, particularly studies by Jeffrey D. Karpicke and Henry L. Roediger III, who are leading experts in memory and learning strategies.
Their work emphasizes the effectiveness of retrieval practice as a learning tool compared to passive methods like re-reading or highlighting.
For example, Karpicke and Roediger conducted experiments showing that students who engaged in retrieval practice retained information significantly better over time than those who simply reviewed their notes.
This research highlights how retrieval strengthens memory by forcing the brain to actively recall information, making it more durable and accessible in the long term.
While the “5 minutes equals 25 minutes” efficiency ratio isn’t a direct quote from their studies, it is a commonly cited approximation derived from the significant gains in retention and efficiency seen in their experiments.
The idea illustrates the principle that retrieval practice maximizes learning while saving time, which is particularly beneficial for busy learners.
If you're interested, their landmark paper, The Critical Importance of Retrieval for Learning, provides deeper insights into this concept.
Quizzing works because it engages the brain in active recalls:
✅ Strengthens Memory: Each time you retrieve information, you create stronger neural connections.
✅ Identifies Weak Spots: Quizzing shows you what you don’t know yet, so you can focus on those areas.
✅ Prevents Forgetting: Regular quizzing slows down the forgetting curve and helps you retain knowledge for years, not just weeks.
✅ Boosts Confidence: Successfully recalling information builds your confidence and reduces the fear of mistakes.
How to Use Quizzing for Long-Term Language Learning
Quizzing is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to fit any language-learning routine.
Practical ways to use it:
💡Vocabulary Practice
Create flashcards with new words on one side and their meanings or translations on the other. Test yourself daily by flipping through the cards.
💡 Grammar Drills
Write down sentences with blanks for verbs, prepositions, or other grammar points you’re learning. Quiz yourself on filling in the blanks without looking at your notes.
Example: “I ___ (to eat) breakfast at 8 AM every day.”
💡Speaking Prompts
Ask yourself open-ended questions in your target language and try to answer them aloud. Record your answers to check for accuracy later.
Example: “What did you do yesterday?” Answer: “Yesterday, I went to the park and read a book.”
💡Listening Recall
Listen to a short audio clip or podcast and quiz yourself on what you remember. What were the main ideas? Can you repeat any phrases?
My Personal Experience with Quizzing for Long-Term Language Learning
As someone who speaks four languages, I’ve tried countless learning techniques.
Quizzing is one of the few methods I use consistently because it really works. I remember struggling to memorize idioms when I first started learning English.
Reading them wasn’t enough—they just wouldn’t stick. But when I started testing myself, using flashcards and self-made quizzes, everything changed.
Not only did I retain those tricky phrases, but I also began using them naturally in conversations. That’s when I realized quizzing wasn’t just a study hack—it was a game-changer for long-term learning.
Tips for Effective Quizzing
✅ Be Consistent: Make quizzing a regular part of your routine. Even 5–10 minutes a day can make a big difference.
✅ Space It Out: Use spaced repetition to review material at increasing intervals. This technique maximizes retention while saving time.
✅ Mix It Up: Don’t just quiz yourself on one topic. Interleave vocabulary, grammar, and listening to keep your brain engaged.
✅ Track Your Progress: Celebrate small wins to stay motivated.
✅ Use new tecnologies like ChatGPT
You can also check my Ultimate Guide ChatGpt for language learning.💡
More techniques for fast language learning result:
How to Use The Mirror Technique for Language Mastery
Time Audit: Tried-and-True Tool to Be Productive & Learn English Faster
The Pomodoro Technique: How to Use It For Productivity
How to Learn English Faster with The 2-Minute Rule
ADHD-friendly apps for learners: The best Tool – Sunsama
Eisenhower Matrix for Time Management and Better Learning Efficiency
Final Thoughts
Quizzing is a simple yet powerful technique that transforms the way we learn and remember. Whether you’re mastering vocabulary, grammar, or speaking, this method ensures your efforts pay off in the long run.
If you’ve been frustrated with short-term memorization or feel like you’re stuck in your language learning, give quizzing a try. It’s one of the tools I rely on, and I’m confident it can help you too.
Remember, learning a language is a marathon, not a sprint. With quizzing in your toolkit, you’ll make progress and enjoy it. 😊
Thanks for reading,
M.K.
P.S. My next post will be about how to use ChatGPT to quiz yourself effectively. Stay tuned!
