FSRS (Free Spaced Repetition Scheduler) is a state-of-the-art algorithm that schedules reviews at the optimal moment - right before you would forget. It's the same science medical students use to memorize thousands of facts.
Answer a question - coding, behavioral, or system design. Rate how well you knew it.
FSRS updates your memory stability and difficulty estimates based on your response.
The next review is scheduled right before you would forget - maximizing retention.
As you demonstrate mastery, intervals extend from days to weeks to months.
Traditional interview prep often focuses on volume—solve as many problems as possible. But when interview day comes, you've forgotten most of what you learned. The real goal isn't practice count—it's pattern recognition that sticks.
Without spaced repetition, you forget ~70% of new information within 24 hours. After a week, you've forgotten ~90%. This is why grinding doesn't work.
| Method | Retention | Time | Burnout |
|---|---|---|---|
Volume-Based Practice Solve many problems, remember few | ~15% | High | Very High |
Basic Spaced Repetition Better retention, generic scheduling | ~70% | Medium | Medium |
FSRS (HireReady) Optimal scheduling, fewer reviews | ~90% | Low | Low |
Our implementation uses research-backed defaults optimized for coding interview prep:
After each question, you rate your response. This feedback trains the algorithm:
FSRS is based on decades of memory research:
Coding interviews test pattern recognition. FSRS ensures you instantly recognize Two Pointers, Sliding Window, and other patterns when you see them.
5-20 minute daily sessions beat 4-hour grinding sessions. Consistent, spaced practice creates stronger memories than cramming.
Interview prep often takes months. FSRS ensures you remember what you learned in month 1 when your interview is in month 3.
When you know you've actually retained the material, interview anxiety drops. Confidence comes from genuine competence.