Case Study: Mnemeo SRS platform

I've spent years searching for the perfect flashcard app. I missed the engaging typing mode of old Memrise, and while Anki is incredibly powerful, I often found its user experience a bit dated and frequently ran into "ease hell." So, I decided to build the tool I wished existed.

The challenge

The goal wasn't just to build another flashcard app. The real architectural challenge was to design a system from first principles, focused on a single mission: **maximizing retention by minimizing cognitive load and workflow friction** for the serious, self-directed learner.

Key architectural decisions

Every feature in Mnemeo is the result of a conscious design decision aimed at solving a specific point of friction.

• A more intuitive SRS algorithm: The underlying algorithm is designed to be more forgiving than traditional systems to help avoid "ease hell." Separately, to reduce the decision fatigue that can come with complex systems, the Rating Mode uses a simpler, three-point scoring system (Wrong / Close / Correct).
• Dual review modes: Recognizing that users have different preferences and study in different contexts, Mnemeo offers flexibility. It provides both a precise Typing Mode, perfect for focused desktop study where accuracy is key, and a fast Rating Mode, ideal for quick reviews on the go.
• Frictionless experience: My core design philosophy wasn't about minimalism for its own sake, but about creating a frictionless user experience. The goal is a clean, modern interface where every key feature is accessible in no more than two clicks, and the entire review process can be completed using only keyboard shortcuts, without ever touching the mouse.
• Easy deck creation or migration: Creating decks is easy: users may use bulk add feature to add multiple cards quickly, use a smart Anki deck importer or CSV importer. This removes the biggest barrier to trying a new tool.

The outcome

The result is Mnemeo, a lean and focused learning platform. It's a testament to the idea that the best tools are often the ones that do less, but do it with more thought and intention. It is the SRS app I always wanted, and I'm continuing to develop it in public to share the journey.