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skills/memory-retrieval-learning/resources/evaluators/rubric_memory_retrieval_learning.json

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+{
+  "criteria": [
+    {
+      "name": "Goal Clarity",
+      "description": "Learning objectives, timeline, and success criteria are specific and measurable",
+      "levels": {
+        "5": "Crystal clear goals with quantifiable success criteria, realistic timeline with buffer, daily time commitment specified and sustainable, current and target level defined",
+        "4": "Clear goals with mostly quantifiable criteria, reasonable timeline, daily time specified, minor gaps in clarity",
+        "3": "Goals stated but somewhat vague, timeline exists but may be unrealistic, daily time mentioned but questionable sustainability",
+        "2": "Vague goals, unclear timeline, daily time not specified or clearly unsustainable",
+        "1": "No clear goals, no timeline, no time commitment specified"
+      }
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "Material Breakdown",
+      "description": "Content chunked into learnable units with realistic hour estimates and priorities",
+      "levels": {
+        "5": "All material broken into appropriate chunks (30-90 min each), hour estimates include 1.5x buffer, priorities assigned (High/Med/Low), prerequisites identified",
+        "4": "Good chunking with minor sizing issues, hour estimates mostly realistic, priorities mostly assigned, some prerequisites noted",
+        "3": "Material broken down but chunk sizes inconsistent, estimates present but no buffer, priorities partially assigned",
+        "2": "Poor chunking (too large or too granular), unrealistic estimates, no priorities, missing major material",
+        "1": "No meaningful breakdown, no estimates, no structure"
+      }
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "Spaced Repetition",
+      "description": "Review schedule uses evidence-based spacing intervals (not cramming)",
+      "levels": {
+        "5": "Clear spaced repetition schedule with intervals at 1-3-7-14-30 days, review cycles documented with specific dates/methods, interleaving included, covers full timeline",
+        "4": "Spaced repetition used with mostly appropriate intervals, review cycles planned, some interleaving, minor gaps in timeline coverage",
+        "3": "Some spacing in reviews but intervals not optimal, review cycles exist but poorly defined, little interleaving, gaps in coverage",
+        "2": "Minimal spacing, still mostly massed practice, reviews poorly planned, no interleaving",
+        "1": "Pure cramming/massed practice, no spacing, no review plan"
+      }
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "Retrieval Practice",
+      "description": "Active recall methods prioritized over passive review",
+      "levels": {
+        "5": "Specific retrieval methods for each material type (flashcards, practice problems, self-quizzing, mock tests), tools identified, frequency specified, no passive techniques",
+        "4": "Retrieval methods specified for most material types, tools mostly identified, frequencies noted, minimal passive techniques",
+        "3": "Some retrieval methods noted but not comprehensive, tools vaguely mentioned, frequencies unclear, mix of active and passive",
+        "2": "Mostly passive techniques (re-reading, highlighting), minimal retrieval practice, tools not specified",
+        "1": "All passive techniques, no active recall, no testing"
+      }
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "Schedule Realism",
+      "description": "Time estimates and daily commitments are achievable and sustainable",
+      "levels": {
+        "5": "Total hours calculated with formulas, 1.5x buffer included, consistency factor (0.7) applied, daily time is sustainable (15min-4hr range), contingency plans for falling behind",
+        "4": "Hours estimated with some buffer, consistency considered, daily time mostly sustainable, some contingency planning",
+        "3": "Hours estimated but minimal buffer, consistency not explicitly considered, daily time on edge of sustainable, weak contingency plans",
+        "2": "Unrealistic time estimates, no buffer, heroic daily commitments, no contingency plans",
+        "1": "No realistic planning, assumes perfect conditions, unsustainable commitments"
+      }
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "Progress Tracking",
+      "description": "System in place to measure retention and adjust schedule based on performance",
+      "levels": {
+        "5": "Clear tracking method (tool specified), retention metrics defined (target ≥70%), adjustment rules documented (what to do if <60% or >90%), study log template provided",
+        "4": "Tracking method specified, retention target noted, some adjustment guidance, log format exists",
+        "3": "Tracking mentioned but method vague, retention target unclear, minimal adjustment guidance",
+        "2": "Tracking is hours-only (not retention), no adjustment rules, no clear system",
+        "1": "No tracking system, no measurement of retention or progress"
+      }
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "Evidence-Based Techniques",
+      "description": "Plan incorporates cognitive science principles (spacing, testing, interleaving, elaboration)",
+      "levels": {
+        "5": "Uses all 4 key techniques: spaced repetition with proper intervals, retrieval practice prioritized, interleaving across topics, elaboration/connection to prior knowledge",
+        "4": "Uses 3/4 key techniques consistently, one is weak or missing",
+        "3": "Uses 2/4 techniques, others missing or poorly implemented",
+        "2": "Uses 1/4 technique only, mostly ignores learning science",
+        "1": "Ignores all evidence-based techniques, uses counterproductive methods"
+      }
+    },
+    {
+      "name": "Actionability",
+      "description": "Plan is immediately executable with clear next steps",
+      "levels": {
+        "5": "Can start tomorrow with clear first task, review schedule has specific dates, tools/resources identified and accessible, success criteria observable, weekly milestones defined",
+        "4": "Can start soon with minor clarifications needed, schedule mostly specific, resources mostly identified, criteria mostly observable",
+        "3": "Requires some preparation to start, schedule has dates but gaps, some resources missing, criteria somewhat vague",
+        "2": "Unclear how to start, schedule lacks specificity, resources not identified, criteria not measurable",
+        "1": "Cannot execute, no concrete steps, no schedule, no resources, no measurable outcomes"
+      }
+    }
+  ],
+  "scale": 5,
+  "passing_threshold": 3.5,
+  "scoring_guidance": {
+    "overall_minimum": "Average score must be ≥ 3.5 across all criteria",
+    "critical_criteria": [
+      "Spaced Repetition",
+      "Retrieval Practice",
+      "Schedule Realism"
+    ],
+    "critical_threshold": "Critical criteria must each be ≥ 3.0 (even if average is ≥ 3.5)",
+    "improvement_priority": "If below threshold, prioritize: Spaced Repetition → Retrieval Practice → Schedule Realism → others"
+  },
+  "common_failure_modes": [
+    "Cramming plan (massed practice) instead of spaced repetition",
+    "Passive techniques (highlighting, re-reading) instead of retrieval practice",
+    "Heroic time commitments (4+ hours daily for months) without realistic buffer",
+    "No tracking system or only tracking hours (not retention)",
+    "Blocking by topic (all unit 1, then all unit 2) instead of interleaving",
+    "Vague goals without measurable success criteria",
+    "No material breakdown or unrealistic chunk sizes",
+    "Review schedule doesn't cover full timeline (runs out of time)",
+    "No contingency plans for falling behind or burnout",
+    "Tools not specified (just 'use flashcards' without naming Anki, etc)"
+  ],
+  "excellence_indicators": [
+    "Spaced repetition intervals match evidence (1-3-7-14-30 days)",
+    "Retrieval practice methods specific to each material type",
+    "Total hours calculated with formulas and 1.5x buffer",
+    "Consistency factor (0.7) applied to daily schedule",
+    "Retention metrics tracked with adjustment rules (if <60%, shorten intervals)",
+    "Interleaving built into review schedule",
+    "Mock tests scheduled at 30%, 60%, 90% completion",
+    "Contingency plans for falling behind, low retention, and burnout",
+    "Tools explicitly named (Anki, spreadsheet, bullet journal)",
+    "Success criteria are SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound)"
+  ],
+  "guidance_by_timeline": {
+    "short_term_1-4_weeks": {
+      "focus": "Intensive daily practice with frequent short reviews",
+      "target_scores": {
+        "SpacedRepetition": "≥4 (use 1-2-4-8 day intervals for short timeline)",
+        "RetrievalPractice": "≥4 (multiple daily retrieval sessions)",
+        "ScheduleRealism": "≥3 (can be intensive for short period)"
+      },
+      "common_issues": "Not enough time for proper spacing (can't fit 5 review cycles), need compressed schedule"
+    },
+    "medium_term_1-6_months": {
+      "focus": "Balanced new learning and reviews, sustainable daily practice",
+      "target_scores": {
+        "SpacedRepetition": "≥4 (full 1-3-7-14-30 day cycle)",
+        "RetrievalPractice": "≥4 (variety of methods)",
+        "ScheduleRealism": "≥4 (must be sustainable for months)"
+      },
+      "common_issues": "Review load peaks around weeks 4-8, can feel overwhelming if not planned"
+    },
+    "long_term_6+_months": {
+      "focus": "Maintenance and prevention of forgetting, gradual skill building",
+      "target_scores": {
+        "SpacedRepetition": "≥4 (may extend to 60-90 day intervals)",
+        "RetrievalPractice": "≥4 (varied to prevent boredom)",
+        "ScheduleRealism": "≥5 (sustainability is critical, burnout risk)"
+      },
+      "common_issues": "Motivation decay over long timeline, need progress milestones and rewards"
+    }
+  },
+  "guidance_by_material_type": {
+    "factual_memory_vocab_dates_names": {
+      "best_methods": "Flashcards (Anki), spaced repetition software, mnemonics",
+      "target_scores": {
+        "RetrievalPractice": "≥4 (flashcards are ideal for facts)",
+        "SpacedRepetition": "≥5 (SRS algorithms handle spacing automatically)"
+      },
+      "red_flags": "Using lists/highlighting instead of flashcards, no SRS tool"
+    },
+    "procedural_skills_math_coding_procedures": {
+      "best_methods": "Practice problems, worked examples, progressive difficulty",
+      "target_scores": {
+        "RetrievalPractice": "≥4 (must actually solve problems)",
+        "Interleaving": "≥4 (mix problem types, don't block)"
+      },
+      "red_flags": "Only reading solutions, blocking by problem type, no hands-on practice"
+    },
+    "conceptual_understanding_theory_models": {
+      "best_methods": "Self-explanation, concept mapping, teach-back method",
+      "target_scores": {
+        "RetrievalPractice": "≥4 (explain from memory)",
+        "Elaboration": "≥4 (connect to prior knowledge)"
+      },
+      "red_flags": "Passive re-reading, no self-testing, can't explain in own words"
+    },
+    "exam_prep_certification_bar_boards": {
+      "best_methods": "Mock exams, mixed practice, timed conditions",
+      "target_scores": {
+        "RetrievalPractice": "≥5 (mock tests are critical)",
+        "SpacedRepetition": "≥4 (review weak areas)",
+        "ProgressTracking": "≥5 (must track mock scores)"
+      },
+      "red_flags": "No mock exams, cramming in final week, not tracking weak areas"
+    },
+    "language_learning": {
+      "best_methods": "Flashcards (vocab), conversation practice, immersion, interleaved grammar/vocab",
+      "target_scores": {
+        "RetrievalPractice": "≥4 (active production, not just recognition)",
+        "SpacedRepetition": "≥5 (vocabulary review is continuous)",
+        "Application": "≥4 (must use language, not just study)"
+      },
+      "red_flags": "Only studying grammar rules, no speaking practice, pure vocabulary without context"
+    }
+  }
+}

skills/memory-retrieval-learning/resources/methodology.md

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+# Advanced Memory & Learning Methodology
+
+## Workflow
+
+```
+Advanced Learning Progress:
+- [ ] Step 1: Diagnose learning challenges
+- [ ] Step 2: Select advanced techniques
+- [ ] Step 3: Optimize spacing algorithm
+- [ ] Step 4: Address motivation and habits
+- [ ] Step 5: Break through plateaus
+- [ ] Step 6: Maintain long-term retention
+```
+
+**Step 1: Diagnose learning challenges**
+
+Identify specific problems: interference between similar concepts, motivation decay, learning plateaus, or retention below 60%. See [1. Diagnostic Framework](#1-diagnostic-framework).
+
+**Step 2: Select advanced techniques**
+
+Choose from desirable difficulties, elaborative interrogation, dual coding, or generation effect based on material type. See [2. Advanced Techniques](#2-advanced-techniques).
+
+**Step 3: Optimize spacing algorithm**
+
+Adjust intervals based on material difficulty, personal retention curves, and interference patterns. See [3. Optimizing Spaced Repetition](#3-optimizing-spaced-repetition).
+
+**Step 4: Address motivation and habits**
+
+Build sustainable learning habits using implementation intentions, temptation bundling, and progress visualization. See [4. Motivation & Habit Formation](#4-motivation--habit-formation).
+
+**Step 5: Break through plateaus**
+
+Use targeted strategies for overcoming learning stalls: difficulty increase, context variation, or deliberate practice. See [5. Breaking Plateaus](#5-breaking-plateaus).
+
+**Step 6: Maintain long-term retention**
+
+Implement maintenance schedules, periodic reactivation, and knowledge gardening. See [6. Long-Term Maintenance](#6-long-term-maintenance).
+
+---
+
+## 1. Diagnostic Framework
+
+### Common Learning Problems
+
+**Problem: Forgetting too quickly (retention <60%)**
+- Symptoms: Failing Day 3/7 reviews, relearning from scratch, can't recall basics
+- Causes: Shallow encoding, interference, insufficient elaboration, sleep deprivation
+- Solutions: Spend 2x longer initially, use 1-2-4-8-16 day schedule, add "A vs B" comparisons, prioritize 7-9hr sleep
+
+**Problem: Learning plateau (no improvement for 3+ weeks)**
+- Symptoms: Mock test scores stuck, retention flat, effort feels wasted
+- Causes: Wrong difficulty level, no error feedback, insufficient variation, metacognitive illusions
+- Solutions: Use 85% rule (succeed 85%, fail 15%), immediate feedback, increase variation, predict scores pre-test
+
+**Problem: Motivation decay**
+- Symptoms: Skipping sessions, dreading materials, procrastinating, questioning purpose
+- Causes: Distant goals, no intrinsic interest, no progress visibility, burnout
+- Solutions: Weekly milestones, link to personal interests, visualize progress, reduce daily time 30%
+
+---
+
+## 2. Advanced Techniques
+
+### Desirable Difficulties
+
+**Concept:** Making retrieval harder (within limits) strengthens long-term retention.
+
+**Applications:**
+
+**Varied Practice Contexts:**
+- Study same material in different locations (library, café, home)
+- Different times of day
+- With/without background music
+- Standing vs sitting
+- Effect: Breaks context-dependent memory, aids transfer
+
+**Generation Effect:**
+- Generate answer before seeing it (even if wrong guess)
+- Fill-in-the-blank > multiple choice > recognition
+- Summarize in own words before reading summary
+- Effect: Effortful generation strengthens encoding
+
+**Spacing with Optimal Difficulty:**
+- Space reviews such that retention is 50-80% (not 90%+)
+- Too easy = wasted time
+- Too hard (<40%) = frustration, no benefit
+- Sweet spot: Struggling but succeeding most of the time
+
+### Elaborative Interrogation
+
+**Technique:** Ask "why" questions to connect new knowledge to existing schemas.
+
+**Process:**
+1. Learn new fact: "Mitochondria are the powerhouse of the cell"
+2. Ask: "Why do cells need a powerhouse?"
+3. Answer: "Because they need energy for all cellular processes"
+4. Ask: "Why is this energy generation separated into mitochondria?"
+5. Answer: "Because it involves complex chemistry that's isolated for safety/efficiency"
+
+**Benefits:**
+- Creates retrieval routes through elaboration
+- Integrates isolated facts into knowledge networks
+- Reveals understanding gaps
+
+**When to use:**
+- Conceptual material (not pure memorization)
+- When facts seem arbitrary or disconnected
+- Building mental models of systems
+
+### Dual Coding
+
+**Concept:** Combine verbal and visual representations for redundant encoding.
+
+**Applications:**
+
+**For Abstract Concepts:**
+- Draw diagram while explaining verbally
+- Use metaphor + literal definition
+- Create mind map + written outline
+- Benefit: Two retrieval paths instead of one
+
+**For Procedures:**
+- Watch video demonstration + read step-by-step text
+- Create flowchart + write algorithm
+- Use physical gesture + verbal description (embodied cognition)
+
+**For Vocabulary:**
+- Word + image flashcard
+- Etymology (visual word parts) + definition
+- Example sentence + picture of scenario
+
+**Evidence:** Dual coding increases recall by 20-30% compared to single modality.
+
+### Interleaving vs. Blocking
+
+**Blocked Practice:** AAAA BBBB CCCC (all of topic A, then all of B, then all of C)
+**Interleaved Practice:** ABCABC ABCABC (mix topics within session)
+
+**When to Use Each:**
+
+**Use Blocking (AAAA) when:**
+- Complete novice learning brand new skill
+- First exposure to topic (need to establish basics)
+- Material is extremely difficult
+- Example: Day 1 of learning Python loops, do 10 loop problems in a row
+
+**Use Interleaving (ABCABC) when:**
+- Past initial learning phase
+- Multiple similar concepts to discriminate
+- Preparing for tests (which are always interleaved)
+- Example: After learning loops, functions, classes → mix all three in practice
+
+**Interleaving Benefits:**
+- +40% improvement in discrimination between similar concepts
+- Better transfer to novel problems
+- Reveals confusion between topics (forces discrimination)
+
+**Interleaving Costs:**
+- Feels harder and less productive during practice
+- Initial performance worse than blocking
+- Requires trust in the process
+
+---
+
+## 3. Optimizing Spaced Repetition
+
+### Beyond Standard Intervals
+
+**Standard Schedule:** 1-3-7-14-30 days works for average retention.
+
+**Personalized Optimization:**
+
+**If you're a fast forgetter:**
+- Use: 1-2-4-8-16-32 day intervals
+- More frequent early reviews
+- Accept that you'll review more often
+
+**If you're a slow forgetter:**
+- Use: 1-4-10-25-60 day intervals
+- Extend intervals to save time
+- Only review when approaching forgetting
+
+**Measuring Your Retention Curve:**
+1. After learning something, test retention at Days 1, 3, 7, 14
+2. Plot % retained vs. days since learning
+3. Find when retention drops to 70%
+4. That's your optimal review timing
+
+### Material-Specific Intervals
+
+**High-Interference Material** (similar concepts that confuse each other):
+- Use shorter intervals: 1-2-4-7-14 days
+- Add contrastive examples every review
+- Example: Spanish/Italian vocab (similar languages)
+
+**Low-Interference Material** (isolated, distinctive):
+- Use longer intervals: 1-4-12-30-90 days
+- Example: Anatomy terms (distinctive body parts)
+
+**Procedural Knowledge:**
+- Compress early intervals: 1-1-2-4-8 days (more practice initially)
+- Then extend: 15-30-60 days for maintenance
+- Example: Keyboard shortcuts, coding syntax
+
+**Conceptual Understanding:**
+- Standard or extended intervals: 1-3-7-21-60 days
+- Focus on elaboration each review, not just recall
+- Example: Physics principles, business models
+
+### Adaptive Algorithms
+
+**Manual Leitner System:**
+- Box 1: Daily review
+- Box 2: Every 3 days
+- Box 3: Weekly
+- Box 4: Bi-weekly
+- Box 5: Monthly
+- Move forward on success, back to Box 1 on failure
+
+**SuperMemo SM-2 Algorithm** (used by Anki):
+```
+If correct:
+  New interval = Old interval × Ease Factor
+
+If forgotten:
+  Restart at Day 1
+  Reduce Ease Factor (make future intervals shorter)
+
+Ease Factor adjusts based on how hard each card is for you
+```
+
+**When to Use Software:**
+- 100+ items to review (manual tracking gets overwhelming)
+- Long-term projects (6+ months)
+- Need mobile access for anywhere review
+- Want automatic scheduling optimization
+
+---
+
+## 4. Motivation & Habit Formation
+
+### Implementation Intentions
+
+**Format:** "When [situation], I will [behavior]"
+
+**Examples:**
+- "When I finish breakfast, I will review flashcards for 15 minutes"
+- "When I arrive at library, I will do one practice problem set"
+- "When I feel stuck on a problem, I will take 5-min break then return"
+
+**Why it works:**
+- Removes decision fatigue ("should I study now?")
+- Creates automatic triggers
+- 2-3x higher follow-through than vague goals
+
+**Creating Effective Implementation Intentions:**
+1. Choose consistent trigger (same time, place, or prior event)
+2. Start with laughably easy behavior (10 minutes, not 2 hours)
+3. Reward immediately after (walk, snack, favorite activity)
+4. Track completion (checkbox satisfaction)
+
+### Temptation Bundling
+
+**Concept:** Pair desirable activity with learning to transfer motivation.
+
+**Examples:**
+- Only listen to favorite podcast while reviewing flashcards
+- Drink premium coffee only during study sessions
+- Watch one episode of show after completing daily goal
+- Study at favorite café with great ambiance
+
+**Setup:**
+1. Identify guilty pleasure or desired activity
+2. Make it contingent on study session
+3. Never allow pleasure without study (strict bundling)
+4. Result: Pavlovian association forms
+
+### Progress Visualization
+
+**Techniques:**
+
+**Completion Tracking:**
+- Visual: Mark off each unit completed on printed grid
+- Quantitative: "35/100 topics mastered"
+- Milestone: "Halfway through, 8 weeks to go"
+
+**Streak Tracking:**
+- Days in a row completing review
+- Motivating to maintain streak
+- But: Build in guilt-free "break days" (1 per week allowed)
+
+**Score Improvement:**
+- Graph mock test scores over time
+- Even flat line with uptick at end is progress
+- Compare to initial baseline, not perfection
+
+**Time Investment:**
+- Total hours invested visual (fills up jar/thermometer)
+- Sunk cost becomes motivating: "I've put in 40 hours, not quitting now"
+
+---
+
+## 5. Breaking Plateaus
+
+### Diagnose Plateau Type
+
+**Knowledge Plateau:**
+- You know the basics but can't advance
+- Solution: Deliberate practice on weakest areas (not random review)
+- Find the specific sub-skill holding you back
+
+**Transfer Plateau:**
+- Can answer practice questions but fail novel problems
+- Solution: Increase variation, practice with different formats/contexts
+- Interleave more aggressively
+
+**Speed Plateau:**
+- Accurate but too slow
+- Solution: Timed practice with progressive time pressure
+- Chunking (automate sub-routines)
+
+### Strategies by Plateau Type
+
+**For Knowledge Plateaus:**
+
+1. **Error Analysis:**
+   - Review last 20 errors in detail
+   - Categorize: Careless? Conceptual gap? Never learned?
+   - Create targeted mini-lessons for gaps
+
+2. **Prerequisite Check:**
+   - Are you missing foundational knowledge?
+   - Go back 1-2 levels, fill gaps
+   - Example: Struggling with calculus? Review algebra
+
+3. **Increase Difficulty:**
+   - 85% rule: Should succeed 85% of time
+   - If above 95%, material is too easy
+   - Find harder problems/questions
+
+**For Transfer Plateaus:**
+
+4. **Far Transfer Practice:**
+   - Apply knowledge in completely new domains
+   - Example: Learn stats with sports, apply to business
+   - Forces deep understanding beyond memorized procedures
+
+5. **Explain to Novice:**
+   - Teach material to someone who knows nothing
+   - Forces simple explanations, reveals assumption gaps
+   - Can't hide behind jargon
+
+**For Speed Plateaus:**
+
+6. **Chunking:**
+   - Identify repeated sub-procedures
+   - Practice sub-procedures until automatic
+   - Example: Typing → practice common letter pairs
+
+7. **Timed Progressive Overload:**
+   - Week 1: Complete problem set, no time limit
+   - Week 2: Same set in 90% of Week 1 time
+   - Week 3: 80% of Week 1 time
+   - Build speed without sacrificing accuracy
+
+---
+
+## 6. Long-Term Maintenance
+
+### Maintenance Schedules
+
+**After achieving proficiency, prevent forgetting:**
+
+**High-Stakes Knowledge** (exam, job-critical):
+- Review every 60-90 days
+- Do mini-refresher (15-30 min)
+- One practice problem set quarterly
+- Example: Maintaining coding skills between projects
+
+**Medium-Stakes** (nice to have, occasional use):
+- Review every 6 months
+- Quick skim + one example
+- 10-15 min refresher
+- Example: Foreign language you use on vacation
+
+**Low-Stakes** (personal interest):
+- Review yearly or when needed
+- Accept some forgetting (quick relearn as needed)
+- Example: Hobby knowledge like wine regions
+
+### Periodic Reactivation
+
+**Concept:** Brief reactivation prevents dormancy.
+
+**Technique:**
+- Set calendar reminder every X months
+- Spend 15-30 minutes on representative sample
+- Don't re-study everything, just key concepts/skills
+- If retention >70%, extend next review interval
+- If retention <50%, schedule intensive review
+
+### Knowledge Gardening
+
+**Metaphor:** Knowledge is a garden requiring maintenance.
+
+**Practices:**
+
+**Weeding:**
+- Retire outdated knowledge (old APIs, superseded methods)
+- Don't maintain what's no longer useful
+- Example: Remove Windows XP skills if not relevant
+
+**Pruning:**
+- Identify rarely-retrieved knowledge
+- Let it fade if truly not needed
+- Focus maintenance on high-value knowledge
+
+**Feeding:**
+- Add new knowledge to existing networks
+- Update as field evolves
+- Example: Add new Python 3.12 features to existing Python knowledge
+
+**Cross-Pollination:**
+- Connect knowledge across domains
+- Strengthens both through analogies
+- Example: Link economics concepts to psychology
+
+---
+
+## 7. Troubleshooting Guide
+
+**If motivation collapses:**
+→ Reduce daily time by 50%, add rewards, reconnect to purpose
+
+**If retention drops below 60%:**
+→ Shorten intervals (use 1-2-4-8-16 schedule), add elaboration, check sleep
+
+**If learning feels effortless (>95% retention):**
+→ Extend intervals, increase difficulty, you're wasting time on too-easy material
+
+**If similar concepts interfere:**
+→ Use contrastive examples, space their learning apart by 1-2 days, create comparison charts
+
+**If plateau for 3+ weeks:**
+→ Diagnose type (knowledge/transfer/speed), apply targeted strategy from Section 5
+
+**If burnout symptoms appear:**
+→ Take 3-7 day break, reduce load 50%, switch to intrinsically interesting material
+
+**If can't find time:**
+→ 15 min minimum daily beats 2 hr weekly, use implementation intentions, temptation bundling
+
+---
+
+## When to Apply This Methodology
+
+Use advanced methodology when:
+
+✓ Standard spaced repetition isn't working (retention <60%)
+✓ Learning plateau persists despite consistent effort
+✓ Motivation is declining over time
+✓ Material has high interference (similar concepts confusing)
+✓ Long-term retention critical (6+ months, professional knowledge)
+✓ Preparing for very high-stakes outcomes (medical boards, bar exam)
+✓ Need to optimize efficiency (limited time, many topics)
+
+Use standard [template.md](template.md) when:
+✗ First time using spaced repetition (start simple)
+✗ Short-term goals (< 3 months)
+✗ Material is straightforward with low interference
+✗ Standard intervals (1-3-7-14-30) are working fine

skills/memory-retrieval-learning/resources/template.md

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+# Memory, Retrieval & Learning Template
+
+## Workflow
+
+Copy this checklist and track your progress:
+
+```
+Learning Plan Progress:
+- [ ] Step 1: Define goals and constraints
+- [ ] Step 2: Break down material
+- [ ] Step 3: Calculate review schedule
+- [ ] Step 4: Design retrieval methods
+- [ ] Step 5: Create tracking system
+- [ ] Step 6: Execute and adjust
+```
+
+**Step 1: Define goals and constraints**
+
+Complete the [Learning Goals](#1-learning-goals) section with specific objectives, timeline, and available study time. See [Section Guidance](#section-guidance) for how to set realistic goals.
+
+**Step 2: Break down material**
+
+Fill out [Material Breakdown](#2-material-breakdown) by chunking content into learnable units. See [Chunking Strategies](#chunking-strategies) for domain-specific approaches.
+
+**Step 3: Calculate review schedule**
+
+Use [Spaced Repetition Schedule](#3-spaced-repetition-schedule) section to plan initial learning + reviews. See [Schedule Calculation](#schedule-calculation) for formulas.
+
+**Step 4: Design retrieval methods**
+
+Complete [Retrieval Practice Methods](#4-retrieval-practice-methods) with active recall techniques for each material type. See [Retrieval Techniques](#retrieval-techniques-by-material-type) for options.
+
+**Step 5: Create tracking system**
+
+Set up [Progress Tracking](#5-progress-tracking) to measure retention and adjust schedule. See [Tracking Methods](#tracking-methods) for tools and approaches.
+
+**Step 6: Execute and adjust**
+
+Follow the plan, log results, and iterate based on performance. See [Adjustment Rules](#adjustment-rules) for when to modify schedule.
+
+---
+
+## Quick Template
+
+Copy this structure to `memory-retrieval-learning.md`:
+
+```markdown
+# Learning Plan: [Subject/Skill Name]
+
+## 1. Learning Goals
+
+**Subject:** [What you're learning]
+**Timeline:** [Start date] to [End date] ([X] weeks/months)
+**Daily Time Available:** [X] minutes/hours per day
+**Success Criteria:** [How you'll know you've succeeded]
+- Example: Pass certification exam with 80%+ score
+- Example: Demonstrate skill in real project
+- Example: Converse in language at B1 level
+
+**Current Level:** [Beginner/Intermediate/Advanced in this topic]
+**Target Level:** [Where you want to be]
+
+## 2. Material Breakdown
+
+Break subject into learnable chunks:
+
+| Unit | Topic | Est. Hours | Priority | Difficulty |
+|------|-------|------------|----------|------------|
+| 1 | [Topic name] | [X] hrs | High/Med/Low | Easy/Med/Hard |
+| 2 | [Topic name] | [X] hrs | High/Med/Low | Easy/Med/Hard |
+| 3 | [Topic name] | [X] hrs | High/Med/Low | Easy/Med/Hard |
+
+**Total Estimated Hours:** [Sum]
+**Buffer (1.5x):** [Total × 1.5]
+
+## 3. Spaced Repetition Schedule
+
+**Initial Learning Phase:** Weeks 1-[X]
+- [X] hours/week on new material
+- Units to cover: [List units]
+
+**Review Cycles:**
+
+| Review # | Timing | Units to Review | Method | Est. Time |
+|----------|--------|-----------------|--------|-----------|
+| R1 | Day 1 after learning | All recent units | [Flashcards/Quiz/Practice] | [X] min |
+| R2 | Day 3 after learning | All units from 3 days ago | [Method] | [X] min |
+| R3 | Day 7 after learning | All units from 1 week ago | [Method] | [X] min |
+| R4 | Day 14 after learning | All units from 2 weeks ago | [Method] | [X] min |
+| R5 | Day 30 after learning | All units from 1 month ago | [Method] | [X] min |
+
+**Weekly Time Allocation:**
+- New material: [X]% ([Y] hours)
+- Reviews: [X]% ([Y] hours)
+- Practice/Application: [X]% ([Y] hours)
+
+## 4. Retrieval Practice Methods
+
+**For Each Material Type:**
+
+**Conceptual Knowledge:**
+- Method: [Flashcards/Concept mapping/Teach-back]
+- Tool: [Anki/Quizlet/Paper cards/Self-explanation]
+- Frequency: [Daily/Every review cycle]
+
+**Procedural Skills:**
+- Method: [Practice problems/Simulations/Hands-on projects]
+- Tool: [Coding exercises/Lab work/Mock scenarios]
+- Frequency: [Daily/Weekly]
+
+**Factual Memory:**
+- Method: [Spaced repetition software/Mnemonics/Association]
+- Tool: [Anki with cloze deletions/Memory palace]
+- Frequency: [Daily reviews]
+
+**Application/Integration:**
+- Method: [Mock exams/Real projects/Case studies]
+- Tool: [Practice tests/Portfolio projects]
+- Frequency: [Weekly/Bi-weekly]
+
+## 5. Progress Tracking
+
+**Retention Metrics:**
+- Track % correct on each review
+- Target: ≥70% retention between reviews
+- If below 60%: Shorten review interval
+
+**Study Log:**
+
+| Date | Activity | Units Covered | Time Spent | Retention % | Notes |
+|------|----------|---------------|------------|-------------|-------|
+| [Date] | New material | Unit 1 | [X] min | N/A | [Observations] |
+| [Date] | Review R1 | Unit 1 | [X] min | [%] | [Difficult areas] |
+| [Date] | New material | Unit 2 | [X] min | N/A | [Observations] |
+
+**Weekly Review:**
+- What's working well?
+- What needs more review?
+- Schedule adjustments needed?
+
+## 6. Contingency Planning
+
+**If falling behind schedule:**
+- [ ] Reduce new material intake, focus on reviews
+- [ ] Extend timeline by [X] weeks
+- [ ] Drop low-priority units
+- [ ] Increase daily time by [X] minutes
+
+**If retention is low (<60%):**
+- [ ] Shorten review intervals (use 1-2-4-8-16 day schedule)
+- [ ] Change retrieval method (try different technique)
+- [ ] Get help from instructor/tutor on confusing topics
+- [ ] Add elaboration (connect to prior knowledge)
+
+**If burned out:**
+- [ ] Reduce daily time by 50% for 1 week
+- [ ] Switch to easier/more interesting material temporarily
+- [ ] Add rewards after study sessions
+- [ ] Revisit motivation and goals
+```
+
+---
+
+## Section Guidance
+
+### 1. Learning Goals
+
+**Setting Realistic Timelines:**
+- **Shallow learning (basic familiarity)**: 20-40 hours total
+- **Working knowledge (can apply with resources)**: 100-200 hours total
+- **Proficiency (independent application)**: 500-1000 hours total
+- **Expertise (teach others, handle edge cases)**: 5000-10000 hours total
+
+**Daily Time Commitment:**
+- Minimum effective: 15-20 minutes (for spaced repetition maintenance only)
+- Sustainable: 30-90 minutes daily
+- Intensive: 2-4 hours daily (exam prep mode)
+- Maximum: 6 hours daily (diminishing returns beyond this)
+
+**Success Criteria Examples:**
+- Quantifiable: "Pass exam with 80%+", "Build 3 portfolio projects", "Converse for 30 min"
+- Observable: "Demonstrate skill to manager", "Complete certification", "Read news article"
+- Time-bound: "By [date]", "Within 12 weeks", "Before job starts"
+
+### 2. Material Breakdown
+
+**Chunking Principles:**
+- Each chunk should be 30-90 minutes of initial learning
+- Related concepts grouped together
+- Prerequisites before advanced topics
+- Manageable cognitive load per chunk
+
+**Estimating Hours:**
+- **Reading/Watching**: Actual content time × 1.5-2x (for note-taking, pause, rewind)
+- **Practice**: 2-3x reading time (doing > reading)
+- **Complex concepts**: Add 50-100% for struggle time
+- **Total**: Sum all estimates × 1.5 for buffer
+
+**Priority Levels:**
+- **High**: Must-know for success criteria (60-70% of material)
+- **Medium**: Important but not critical (20-30%)
+- **Low**: Nice-to-have or rarely used (5-10%)
+
+### 3. Spaced Repetition Schedule
+
+**Standard Intervals** (for 70-80% retention target):
+- Day 0: Initial learning
+- Day 1: First review (retention ~50-60%)
+- Day 3: Second review (retention ~70%)
+- Day 7: Third review (retention ~75%)
+- Day 14: Fourth review (retention ~80%)
+- Day 30: Fifth review (retention ~85%)
+- Day 60+: Maintenance reviews as needed
+
+**Adjusting for Performance:**
+- If retention >90%: Extend next interval (e.g., 3 days → 5 days)
+- If retention 70-90%: Keep standard interval
+- If retention 50-70%: Shorten next interval (e.g., 7 days → 4 days)
+- If retention <50%: Relearn + restart cycle
+
+**Interleaving Strategy:**
+- Don't review all Unit 1, then all Unit 2, then all Unit 3
+- Mix: Unit 1 problem, Unit 2 problem, Unit 3 problem, Unit 1 problem...
+- Improves transfer and discrimination between similar concepts
+
+---
+
+## Chunking Strategies
+
+**Conceptual Knowledge (theories, models, frameworks):**
+- Chunk by: Core concept + 2-3 related ideas
+- Size: 3-5 key concepts per chunk
+- Example: "Bayesian reasoning" chunk includes prior, likelihood, posterior, updating
+
+**Procedural Skills (how to do something):**
+- Chunk by: Complete procedure or algorithm
+- Size: 5-10 steps per chunk
+- Example: "SQL JOIN query" chunk includes all JOIN types + when to use each
+
+**Factual Memory (dates, names, vocabulary):**
+- Chunk by: Theme or category
+- Size: 10-20 items per chunk
+- Example: "Spanish food vocabulary" chunk = 15 related food words
+
+**Problem-Solving (applying knowledge):**
+- Chunk by: Problem type + solution approach
+- Size: 3-5 example problems per chunk
+- Example: "Optimization problems" chunk = objective function + constraints + solution method
+
+---
+
+## Retrieval Techniques by Material Type
+
+### Flashcards (Best for: Facts, Vocab, Definitions)
+
+**Anki / Spaced Repetition Software:**
+- Front: Question/prompt/word
+- Back: Answer/definition/translation
+- Use cloze deletions for multi-part facts
+- Add images for visual memory
+- Retire after 5+ successful recalls spaced over weeks
+
+**Quality Flashcard Rules:**
+- One concept per card (atomic)
+- Clear, unambiguous questions
+- Concise answers (not paragraphs)
+- Include context if needed
+- Regular card review and retirement
+
+### Practice Problems (Best for: Math, Coding, Analysis)
+
+**Worked Examples + Self-Solve:**
+- Day 1: Study worked example, understand each step
+- Day 2: Solve similar problem without looking
+- Day 3: Solve variation with different numbers/context
+- Day 7: Mixed practice with problems from multiple topics
+
+**Progressive Difficulty:**
+- Start with template/scaffold provided
+- Gradually remove scaffolding
+- Eventually solve from blank page
+- Mix easy + hard problems in review sessions
+
+### Self-Quizzing (Best for: Concepts, Understanding)
+
+**Question Types:**
+- Explain: "How does X work?"
+- Compare: "What's the difference between X and Y?"
+- Apply: "When would you use X vs Y?"
+- Evaluate: "What are the pros/cons of X?"
+
+**Self-Quiz Protocol:**
+- Close notes, write answer from memory
+- Check answer against source
+- Note areas of struggle for extra review
+- Rewrite answer correctly if wrong
+
+### Teach-Back Method (Best for: Deep Understanding)
+
+**Process:**
+1. Learn the material
+2. Explain it to someone else (or rubber duck)
+3. Identify gaps in your explanation
+4. Re-study those specific gaps
+5. Explain again until fluent
+
+**Benefits:**
+- Forces organization of knowledge
+- Reveals hidden misunderstandings
+- Strengthens recall pathways
+- Tests transfer ability
+
+### Mock Tests / Simulations (Best for: Integration, Exam Prep)
+
+**Scheduling:**
+- First mock: After 30-40% of material learned
+- Mid-point mock: At 60-70% completion
+- Final mocks: Weekly in last month before exam
+- Conditions: Timed, closed-book (match real test)
+
+**Analysis After Each Mock:**
+- Identify weak topics (< 60% correct)
+- Categorize errors: Knowledge gap vs. careless mistake vs. time pressure
+- Create focused review plan for weak areas
+- Repeat mock in 1-2 weeks to measure improvement
+
+---
+
+## Tracking Methods
+
+### Digital Tools
+
+**Spaced Repetition Software (Anki, SuperMemo):**
+- Automatic scheduling based on performance
+- Built-in statistics and retention graphs
+- Mobile sync for anywhere review
+- Best for: Flashcard-based learning
+
+**Spreadsheet Tracking:**
+- Custom study log with formulas
+- Track hours, retention %, topics covered
+- Visualize progress with charts
+- Best for: Detailed analysis and planning
+
+**Note-Taking Apps (Notion, Obsidian):**
+- Learning plan + notes in one place
+- Link related concepts
+- Progress tracking with checkboxes
+- Best for: Integrated learning systems
+
+### Analog Methods
+
+**Bullet Journal Study Log:**
+- Daily: Topics covered, time spent, retention feel (🟢🟡🔴)
+- Weekly: Review summary, adjustments needed
+- Monthly: Big picture progress, milestone tracking
+- Best for: Tactile learners, low-tech preference
+
+**Physical Flashcard Box (Leitner System):**
+- Box 1: New cards (review daily)
+- Box 2: Correct once (review every 3 days)
+- Box 3: Correct twice (review weekly)
+- Box 4: Correct 3x (review bi-weekly)
+- Box 5: Mastered (review monthly)
+- Move cards forward on success, back to Box 1 on failure
+
+---
+
+## Schedule Calculation
+
+### Formula for Total Study Time
+
+```
+Total Hours = (Initial Learning Hours) + (Review Hours)
+
+Initial Learning Hours = Σ (Unit Hours × 1.5 buffer)
+
+Review Hours = Initial Learning Hours × 0.4
+  (Reviews take ~40% as long as initial learning)
+
+Example:
+- 10 units × 5 hours each = 50 hours initial
+- 50 hours × 1.5 buffer = 75 hours initial learning
+- 75 hours × 0.4 = 30 hours review
+- Total: 75 + 30 = 105 hours
+```
+
+### Converting to Daily Schedule
+
+```
+Daily Time Needed = Total Hours / (Available Days × Consistency Factor)
+
+Consistency Factor = 0.7 (assume you'll miss ~30% of days due to life)
+
+Example:
+- 105 total hours
+- 90 days available
+- 90 days × 0.7 consistency = 63 actual study days
+- 105 hours / 63 days = 1.67 hours/day needed
+- Round up to 1.75 hours (105 min) daily commitment
+```
+
+### Review Load Over Time
+
+```
+Week 1: Mostly new material (80% new, 20% review)
+Week 4: Balanced (50% new, 50% review)
+Week 8+: Mostly reviews (20% new, 80% review)
+
+Plan your schedule with this ramp-up in mind.
+```
+
+---
+
+## Adjustment Rules
+
+### When Retention is Too Low (<60%)
+
+**Diagnoses:**
+1. **Not understanding material initially**: Slow down, get help, read more sources
+2. **Forgetting too quickly**: Shorten review intervals (try 1-2-4-8-16 day schedule)
+3. **Poor retrieval practice**: Switch to more active methods (flashcards → practice problems)
+4. **Interference**: Similar topics confusing each other (add contrastive examples)
+
+### When Retention is Too High (>90%)
+
+**Opportunity:**
+- You're reviewing too often (wasting time)
+- Extend intervals: 1-3-8-20-50 days instead of 1-3-7-14-30
+- Reduce review time, add new material
+
+### When Falling Behind Schedule
+
+**Options:**
+1. **Extend timeline**: Add 2-4 weeks to deadline if possible
+2. **Drop low-priority units**: Focus on High and Medium priority only
+3. **Increase daily time**: Add 15-30 min/day if sustainable
+4. **Triage**: Master critical material, accept "good enough" on rest
+
+### When Burning Out
+
+**Warning Signs:**
+- Dread opening study materials
+- Can't focus for more than 5 minutes
+- Skipping multiple days in a row
+- Physical symptoms (headaches, fatigue, insomnia)
+
+**Recovery:**
+- Reduce daily time by 50% for 1 week
+- Switch to easiest/most enjoyable material
+- Add rewards after sessions (walk, snack, show episode)
+- Reconnect with intrinsic motivation (why you're learning this)
+- If severe: Take 3-7 day break entirely
+
+---
+
+## Quality Checklist
+
+Before finalizing your learning plan, verify:
+
+**Completeness:**
+- [ ] Learning goals clearly defined with success criteria
+- [ ] All material broken into chunks with hour estimates
+- [ ] Spaced repetition schedule covers full timeline
+- [ ] Retrieval methods defined for each material type
+- [ ] Tracking system specified (tool + metrics)
+- [ ] Contingency plans for common problems
+
+**Realism:**
+- [ ] Daily time commitment is sustainable (not heroic)
+- [ ] Total hours × 1.5 buffer included
+- [ ] 30% missed-days factor applied to schedule
+- [ ] Schedule reviewed by someone experienced in the domain
+
+**Evidence-Based:**
+- [ ] Spaced repetition intervals used (not massed practice)
+- [ ] Retrieval practice prioritized over passive review
+- [ ] Interleaving included (not blocked by topic)
+- [ ] Tracking measures retention, not just hours studied
+
+**Actionable:**
+- [ ] Can start tomorrow with clear first task
+- [ ] Review schedule has specific dates/times
+- [ ] Tools/resources identified and accessible
+- [ ] Success criteria observable and measurable