Myth: SuperMemo can only be used for learning languages

Myth

SuperMemo can only be used for learning languages. SuperMemo gained popularity mostly by its effective help in learning vocabulary of foreign languages. SuperMemo used to be popularly perceived as a program for learning languages. It is considered a program that can only be used for cramming facts, while it cannot effectively be used for complex sciences, rules, modeling, problem solving, creativity, etc.

Fact

SuperMemo can be used in any form of declarative learning (i.e. learning things you can find in textbooks as opposed to learning to ride a bike, etc.). Word-pair learning appears to be the simplest application, while learning complex facts and rules of science may require far more skills in formulating the learning material. This is why many users are indeed unsuccessful when trying to learn, for example, astronomy. If you read 20 rules of formulating knowledge you will realize the number of snags that have to be overcome. Those snags contribute to Myth #1 on the limited applicability of SuperMemo. The perception changed substantially with the advent of incremental reading in 2000

Myth busting is an important mission at SuperMemo Guru. We tackle myths about memory, learning, creativity, SuperMemo, and incremental reading. Please write if you want a myth busted or if you disagree