Spaced repetition without the apps (yes, paper still works)
Anki is great. It's also overkill for most subjects. A notebook does most of the work.
Spaced repetition is one of the most-validated learning techniques in cognitive science. The standard recommendation is to use software like Anki, which schedules reviews at scientifically optimal intervals. For some subjects — medical school, language learning — that's the right tool.
For most students, most of the time, Anki is overkill. Setting up the cards takes longer than the studying. The friction kills the habit. The optimal scheduling buys you maybe a 10% improvement over a much simpler system.
The simpler system fits in a notebook. After class, write three questions about what you learned. Tomorrow, before opening the book, try to answer them. Next week, again. In two weeks, again. Mark which ones you got right; spend more time on the ones you didn't.
This is spaced repetition without the apparatus. The intervals aren't perfectly tuned, but they're roughly right, and you'll actually do it. A B+ technique you actually use beats an A+ technique you abandon in week three.
If you're learning thousands of facts (vocabulary, anatomy), use the software. If you're learning concepts, the notebook is enough. Most students never need anything more elaborate.