Synapse

Philosophy

The Synapse philosophy

Board prep in a nutshell: four kinds of knowing, and what Synapse does about each.

  1. Unknown unknowns

    Synapse is designed with FSRS, an open-source, evidence-based adaptive spaced-repetition method. It's effective at presenting new information, and repeating that presentation to maximize retention of new material for a targeted recall date.

    Flash cards are a time honored method for learning the unknown unknowns. Synapse takes it to the next level.

  2. Unknown knowns

    The most book-smart physician ever minted is no good unless they can apply their learning at the bedside. Synapse uses case vignettes, similar to those found on board exams, to stimulate context-dependent recall of pertinent facts.

    If you can't apply it to patients in their clinical context, did you really learn it?

    Synapse has you covered.

  3. Known unknowns

    Synapse is based around the content specifications of your board exam. It knows what it has to teach you, and it knows how long you have to get there. Cards are just one mode it uses - there are also mini-courses, shareable PDF study guides, and customizable Focus work flows in case you encounter a 'problem area.'

    Don't want to think about it? Just follow the app flow. Synapse will keep you on course. Check your Progress as often as you like.

  4. Known knowns

    Synapse learns what you know cold - and feeds it to you less and less. Leaving more time for the studying that matters most.

Medicine is still knowledge work. Synapse helps you draw the boundary lines. You'll know what you know - and what you don't.

Attending physicians learn to strike an uneasy balance between the confidence inspired by our ever-growing knowledge and skill base, and the humility that comes from knowing just how much more there is to learn. Synapse helps with both. By design.

See it in Synapse: Neurocritical Care