Deep understanding requires detailed knowledge of fundamentals. One way to view the role of a Spaced repetition memory system, then, is that they efficiently automate away the essential but rote elements of learning so that you can focus on more interesting, meaningful, or conceptual elements.
This is one good retort to Many people view memory as unimportant to deep creative work.
It’s worth pointing out, though, that spaced repetition isn’t just useful for the most rote parts of learning: it’s just easiest to deploy it in that way. In fact, Spaced repetition memory systems can be used to develop conceptual understanding.
Q. How can spaced repetition help you spend more of your energy on deeper engagement?
A. It can automate away many of the rote elements of learning.
Matuschak, A., & Nielsen, M. (2019, October 0). How can we develop transformative tools for thought? https://numinous.productions/ttft (see https://numinous.productions/ttft/#how-important-is-memory)