Reviews before new cards: why the order matters
Every new card is a promise to review that information later. If due reviews are already waiting, adding more new material increases future work before you have dealt with the memory obligations you already created.
Due reviews protect older learning
Spaced repetition works because items return near the point where recall needs reinforcement. Ignoring due cards while continuing to add new ones weakens that rhythm and usually makes the queue less manageable.
Simple routine:
1. Complete due reviews.
2. Check whether the remaining workload still feels sustainable.
3. Add new cards only if there is room.
1. Complete due reviews.
2. Check whether the remaining workload still feels sustainable.
3. Add new cards only if there is room.
This is not a rule that new cards are bad. It is a way to keep growth subordinate to retention.
Quick check
You have a large overdue review queue. What should come first?
Use your review time on language learning, not deck assembly.
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