# When is the best time to learn new words?

> Source: https://mem-app.com/blogs/best-time-to-learn-new-words (Mem-App blog, 2026-11-01)

Most of us study vocabulary whenever we happen to have time. But does the time of day matter? A little, yes. Sleep plays a big part in how memories settle, so when you review can make a difference.

## Your brain memorises while you sleep

Studying isn't the moment a memory locks in. It's during sleep that your brain stabilises what you've learned. That's why reviewing words shortly before bed is often a good habit: it gives your brain fresh material to work on overnight.

## Tired brain, good memoriser

Late in the day your brain may not be at its best for analytical work, like solving problems or reading something difficult. Memorising is different. A quick review of words you've already met doesn't need your sharpest thinking.

## Progress beats perfection

Before-bed review is a good rule of thumb, not a requirement. A review at lunch, on the bus or in the morning still beats no review. Don't wait for the perfect moment.

## Use your spare five minutes

Have five minutes and nothing to do? Instead of scrolling social media, open Mem-App and review:

- words that are due today
- words due tomorrow, to get ahead

You can also review any word, anytime, so you're never locked out of practice.

## Try it in Mem-App

1. **Look up** a word in the built-in dictionary.
2. **Add it** to your list.
3. **Review and rate it** as Easy, Good, Hard or Forgot. Mem-App schedules the next review for you.

## Start for free

Mem-App is free to start: the Starter plan includes up to 50 words and 5 new words a day, ad-free. It installs from your browser on Android, iPhone and iPad, Mac and Windows. Try it at [mem-app.com](https://www.mem-app.com).

*I'm a solo developer building this for learners like you. When do you find words stick best: morning, lunch or before bed?*