Anki Remote vs. Traditional Studying: Which Works Better for NAPLEX?

What You’ll Learn

In this blog, we’ll compare two popular study methods for pharmacy students: traditional studying (notes, highlighting, rereading) and the modern Anki Remote + Anki Clicker flashcard system. You’ll learn:

• Why active recall + spaced repetition outperforms passive methods
• How the Anki Remote setup makes flashcard review faster
• When traditional methods still have a place
• Which system gives you the edge for NAPLEX prep

Let’s break it down.

What Does “Traditional Studying” Look Like for Pharmacy Students?

For most students, it means:

• Highlighting class notes
• Reading textbooks
• Rewriting material over and over
• Cramming in long, unfocused sessions
• Relying on memory dumps before the exam

While this method feels productive, it’s mostly passive. You might be “putting in hours,” but you’re not always retaining what matters most — especially when the NAPLEX tests you on clinical application, not memorization alone.

What Makes Anki + Anki Remote So Effective?

The Anki method is built on spaced repetition and active recall — two proven learning strategies backed by cognitive science.

Here’s how it works:

• You test yourself before seeing the answer
• You review cards at just the right time before forgetting
• You tag and customize decks based on high-yield content

With Anki Remote and the Anki Clicker, this process becomes lightning-fast.

Instead of tapping or clicking endlessly, you:

• Use a Bluetooth controller to flip through cards hands-free
• Stay more focused with less screen friction
• Can study on the go — while walking, commuting, or doing chores

Check out how the Anki Remote works

Comparing Traditional vs. Anki Remote Study Styles

What Pharmacy Students Are Saying

“With my Anki Clicker, I can review 300 flashcards in the time it used to take me to highlight a chapter.” — Rachel, PharmD Student

“Traditional studying didn’t cut it for NAPLEX. Once I added spaced repetition with my Anki Controller, I actually remembered things under pressure.” — Kevin, NAPLEX test-taker

“Anki Remote made it easier to stay consistent — I use it even during my lunch breaks.” — Mel, P4 Student

Where Traditional Still Works

To be fair, some traditional strategies can complement Anki:

• Summarizing key concepts by hand before turning them into flashcards
• Sketching mechanisms or pathways to visualize drug actions
• Group study where discussion helps process content

But for day-to-day NAPLEX flashcard review, there’s no question:

Anki Remote saves time, improves recall, and fits into real life.

Final Verdict: Which Works Better for NAPLEX?

If you want to feel productive, traditional studying might be enough.

But if you want to retain, apply, and succeed on the NAPLEX, you need to use a system built for memory.

The Anki Remote setup isn’t just convenient — it’s smarter, faster, and purpose-built for pharmacy school and beyond.

Ready to upgrade your study flow? Grab your Anki Remote here and get started today.