WordsToLearn app for iPhone and iPad

Capture words or pieces of information on the fly, including photos and audio recordings. See a statue in the park? Type in a caption, take a picture, and go on. Hear a bird? Record the song, type in the I.D. Hear a new word in Spanish or Turkish? Type it in, and later type in the definition. Test yourself against everything youve recorded or entered for longer-term learning.

Each item you wish to capture has two pieces: A word/phrase or image or audio recording, and a paired "definition" that can be text or another image or audio recording. Each dichotomous entry can then operate as a reminder or learning tool, much as flash card programs operate.

If youre learning a language, you can import a list of words and definitions or enter them individually. Because WordsToLearn isnt a dedicated language app it doesnt have a built-in word list, nor can it pronounce words. But it excels as an ad-hoc language entry tool, as well as a visual testing and learning tool for items youve entered.

As a learning assist, you can test yourself against a full word list either sequentially or randomly: Testing uses a Leitner system that allows you to self-assess your grasp of a word into three categories: Got it, Almost, Not yet. Testing frequency is proportional to your learning need for a word. You may review each category separately for additional review.

You can also access a visual "learning screen" that presents a word in various colors, cases, sizes, etc. You can adjust the set of attributes presented depending on your learning style, or turn this feature off completely.

We have our phone with us all the time, yet we rarely use it to record anything except the occasional selfie or other photograph. WordsToLearn adds an additional utility level to the phone: It helps record events, associate them with specific information, and then allows review and testing of those events at a later date. Information is not lost, and weve gained an opportunity to remind ourselves of experiences that are all too easily forgotten.