[mindcrime]

This applies to abstract things too, like math and language. Don't bother making flashcards for theorems, syntax, or word definitions. You gotta do the work.

I sort of disagree with this, at least with the naive interpretation. That is, if one is saying that "the work" is mutually exclusive with memorizing "theorems, syntax, word definitions <and etc.>" then I definitely disagree. I would posit that "The work" includes (but is not limited to) doing that memorization. So I'd rephrase the original statement as "Don't ONLY make flashcards for theorems, syntax, or word definitions. You gotta do the other work too" or something close to that.

IOW, I think memorization using Flashcards (whether using Anki or not) is a valid part of the process of learning and synthesizing things. At least in my experience, it's a part that adds value for me. But I would agree that just doing that is not sufficient in and of itself.